Arizona Shopping Arts, Events and Culture In Arizona

I made a succulent pumpkin at Cactus Flower Florists

Erin Thorburn October 5, 2026

nterior of Cactus Flower Florists in Scottsdale with fresh flowers, succulents and plants on display. — Flowers, succulents, plants and gifts fill Cactus Flower Florists, a family-owned Valley business dating back to 1972. (Photo courtesy of Cactus Flower Florists)

Cactus Flower Florists has put down (literal) roots in the Valley since 1972. This Scottsdale institution is not only a place to find flower arrangements full of gorgeous blooms, succulents, and seasonal foliage, but it also offers classes and workshops for everyone, from beginners to experienced floral designers.

I recently participated in the Succulent Pumpkin Design Experience at Cactus Flower. Not only did I create (what I consider) a glorious succulent-topped pumpkin centerpiece, but I also learned about the family-owned business that has maintained a passion for procuring the highest-quality floral products over the years.

Guests work with soil, glass containers and plants during a hands-on class at Cactus Flower Florists. — Hands-on classes at Cactus Flower Florists guide guests through creating seasonal floral and botanical designs. *(Photo courtesy of Cactus Flower Florists)*

The history of Cactus Flower Florists

Eric Luoma, president and owner of Cactus Flower Florists, tells a fascinating origin story of his family business.

After opening a flower shop, Luoma’s mother was approached by the city of Scottsdale about operating the local post office. Keep in mind, this was a time when Scottsdale was not the bustling hotspot it is today.

The hybrid flower shop-post office location was so remote that there was a horse tie-up in front of the shop.

“Every day, someone would ride a horse up, park and bring a package in or mail, and maybe get flowers,” Luoma says.

Eventually, Luoma took over the reins of the family business (not of the horses). Today, Cactus Flower Florists is a beloved floral destination and gathering place.

Floral arrangement with roses, succulents, greenery and textured foliage at Cactus Flower Florists. — Cactus Flower Florists creates arrangements featuring fresh flowers, succulents, greenery and seasonal textures. *(Photo courtesy of Cactus Flower Florists)*

How Cactus Flower Florists has grown

Over time, Cactus Flower Florists has earned several accolades, including:

The Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce Sterling Award: Recognizing businesses for excellence, innovation and community stewardship.
FTD and Teleflora: Recognized among the Top 10 in North America.
Ranking Arizona: No. 3 ranking among Arizona florists in Ranking Arizona’s 2026 edition.
Phoenix New Times: Best Florist in 2018 and 2019.

In addition to store locations in Scottsdale, Chandler and Carefree, Cactus Flower Florists provides floral design for weddings, corporate clients, special events and other celebrations throughout the community. Customers can also shop online and place orders for delivery.

Eric Luoma speaks with guests inside Cactus Flower Florists in Scottsdale. — Cactus Flower Florists President and owner Eric Luoma shares the history of the family-owned business with guests during a floral design experience. *(Photo courtesy of Cactus Flower Florists)*

Floral design classes at Cactus Flower Florists

If you are interested in making a succulent-topped pumpkin too — which I strongly suggest you do — take a look at available classes below. Cactus Flower Florists routinely hosts classes and events throughout the year, so be sure to check the website for upcoming opportunities.

Fall classes

Oct. 16: Midnight Garden: Botanical Dish Garden Experience. Create a lush botanical garden with a beautifully moody twist by layering rich foliage, natural textures, moss and decorative accents.
Oct. 30: The Pumpkin Bloom: Floral Design Class. Celebrate fall with a fresh floral design tucked inside a festive pumpkin container, featuring seasonal blooms, textured foliage and unexpected autumn accents.
Nov. 6: Succulent Pumpkin Design Experience. Create a textural seasonal centerpiece using a live pumpkin, lush moss and a curated mix of succulents.

Erin Thorburn and Emily Hooper hold succulent-topped pumpkins after a class at Cactus Flower Florists in Scottsdale. — BOSW Editor Erin Thorburn and Emily Hooper show off their finished succulent pumpkins after a class at Cactus Flower Florists. *(Photo by Erin Thorburn)*

Holiday classes

Nov. 20: Gathered at the Table: Fall Centerpiece Experience. Design a low, lush arrangement using warm seasonal blooms, layered foliage and rich autumn textures, perfect for Thanksgiving.
Dec. 4-5: Tinsel Training: Live Holiday Wreath. Create a festive holiday wreath with pinecones, berries, holiday accents and a beautiful bow.
Dec. 18-19: Tinsel Training: Holiday Centerpiece. Design a seasonal red-and-white arrangement.

To learn more, visit cactusflower.com.

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