Jan Miller believes in the power of flowers. “Receiving a fresh flower bouquet is one of the most delightful things that can happen,” she said. “When it is unexpected, it is just one of the best things that will ever happen to you.” Jan’s brother Steve originally started the business in Marysville in 1983, but expanded to Manhattan in 1987 when the mall was being built. Celebrating its 30th anniversary in Manhattan in 2017, Steve’s has been in the same location on Poyntz Avenue in Manhattan, Kansas since 1987. Jan bought the business from her brother, Steve, in 1990 and has been an active community member since. She is a Manhattan Leadership graduate and is currently serving a multi-term appointment on the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

“I bet you there isn’t anything we haven’t contributed to in the community,” she said. “As a small business you’re asked constantly to participate in supporting so many things.”

In honor of her service and dedication to the Manhattan community, Miller was named the 2015 Lud Fiser Citizen of the Year. Miller regards that award as one of the highlights of her time at Steve’s Floral. “I was surprised,” she said. “I was humbled. I was honored. Its former recipients are an illustrious list of accomplished people. What an honor to be included on that list.”

Jan attributes much of Steve Floral’s success to the day she hired her lead designer, Hildegard over 22 years ago. Steve’s may have been started by a man, but today it is primarily run by women. This is a rare instance in the modern floral world, and a point of pride for the women at Steve’s. “I have had the privilege to work with some of the most incredible men and women,” she said. “They have brought a tremendous work ethic, intelligence, talent, and joy over the years.”

Jan loves Steve’s Floral and hopes you will too. “The most rewarding thing about owning a flower shop is the ability to have a positive impact on so many people with the service our business provides,” she said. “I feel like I live in the most beautiful place in the world. I work with some incredible people. My daily commute through the Flint Hills is breathtaking. “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong depicts my opinion of life here in Kansas.”