The Walter Special — A Design with a Story

This weekend we lost Walter Hampton. He was a big part of our Deer Run family as a floral designer and, most of all, a friend.

Walter had the biggest heart and gave of himself without ever expecting anything in return. He gave up his vacation year after year to help our team through the crazy weeks of Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day. He gave up his Saturdays so our other designers could have a weekend. He popped by the store several times a week just to check on all of us. He stayed late when we needed him, brought us breakfast sandwiches, sprang for lunch, and quietly slipped a little cash to someone when he knew they needed it. His laugh, his sass, and his stories always brought a little more joy into our days.

He was funny, enormously talented, generous, and always willing to do whatever he could to help.

We’re all still shocked by the news that that big heart of his gave out. Forgive us, it’s hard to find the right words just yet.

We’ll miss you, Walter. And come Valentine’s Day, when we’re up to our elbows in roses and wondering how we’ll ever get it all done without you, we’ll raise a Tito’s to you.

In Walter’s honor, we’re bringing back The Walter Special this month - a classic design he created featuring his favorite flower, vibrant Stargazer lilies, paired with lush red roses.