LOUISVILLE, Ky. — For 175 years, Nanz & Kraft Florists has been part of Louisville’s most meaningful celebrations and toughest goodbyes. The family-owned business, founded in 1850 by Henry Nanz , has grown from a small shop to a household name, thanks to generations of dedication and employees who have made flowers their life’s passion.

Pat Pendegrass is one of them.

“I’ve been working here for 51 years,” she said with a smile.

She started in her twenties, drawn to the shop that was already considered Louisville’s premier florist. In that time, she’s seen it all; holiday rushes, generations of weddings, and even a devastating fire that destroyed the building during her second year.

Credit: Brooke Hasch Pat Pendegrass started at Nanz & Kraft in 1974.

“Everything burned, even the

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