Alancourt named head florist at Vaseful Shop - Star Ledger - 5/15/09

Vaseful Flowers and Gifts in New Brunswick -- a one-of-a-kind shop focused on more than just flowers -- is welcoming a new face to its team.

A nonprofit flower shop, Vaseful has employed people with disabilities since it opened 10 years ago. The shop is an entrepreneurial business owned and operated by Community Options Inc., a national nonprofit organization that develops housing and employment support for people with disabilities.

Vaseful provides training and employment opportunities for people with disabilities, teaching customer service, maintenance and clerical skills and floral design.

Melissa Alancourt, who has spent more than 16 years in the industry, joined the shop, located at 172 Hamilton St., as the new head florist.

"I am excited to be working at Vaseful, where I am hopeful I can help to bring the shop to the front lines of premier wedding services and special-event planning," Alan court said.

Among those welcoming Alancourt are Marissa Alexander. A veteran employee of Vaseful, Alexander completed the American Institute of Floral Designers training program and gained hands-on experience. "My hopes are for Vaseful to be a place where individuals can succeed in their goals through a consistent customer base," Alexander said.

Vaseful is a full-service flower shop that delivers anywhere in the United States. For more information or to order from Vaseful, visit vaseful.com or call (877) 827-3385.