Unsung Heroes: The Flower Gentleman of The Breakers Palm Beach
The Breakers Palm Beach is renowned for its timeless elegance and luxurious ambiance, but behind its breathtaking floral displays lies a team of unsung heroes who have dedicated decades to their craft. Led by Lena Saturnini, the Design Studio Assistant Director, the in-house floral team brings heart, creativity, and a combined 85 years of experience to their work. Unlike other luxury hotels that hire outside designers for their floral arrangements, The Breakers takes pride in its own in-house team, a feature that makes its displays truly unique. Their work, particularly the main lobby arrangement, has become a hallmark of the hotel, captivating guests and locals alike with its beauty and innovation.
What inspires your work?
“For me,” says Maquenson "Mackie" Clermond, a Design Studio Designer with 22 years of experience, “what’s so important when we do these beautiful arrangements is the chance to bring a smile to people’s faces — that is my favorite part.” His passion for creating joy through floral artistry is shared by the entire team, who work tirelessly to ensure each arrangement exudes elegance and creativity.
Why do guests admire your work?
The floral displays are more than just decorations—they’re an experience. “So many guests and locals know that Thursday is the day we do the lobby florals, and some of them sit and watch the team work,” notes the team. The result is one of the most photographed spots in the hotel, and the team takes great care to ensure every detail is perfect.
How do years of experience shape your work?
With a combined tenure of 85 years, the team’s expertise is unmatched. From Edrick Louis Jean’s 18 years of creative design to Martin Young’s 18 years of service as a porter and Edrice Mondesir’s remarkable 27 years in the same role, their dedication ensures that every petal and bloom reflects the excellence The Breakers is known for.
These flower gentlemen are not just florists or porters; they are artists and caretakers of beauty, crafting moments of awe and inspiration for all who walk through The Breakers' doors. Their work is not only a testament to their skills but also to the unparalleled hospitality that defines The Breakers Palm Beach.