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New York City's Last Fabric Flower Factory Marks 110 Years

2025-11-27

The BareStory

A family-owned fabric flower manufacturer in New York City’s Garment District, M&S Schmalberg, is celebrating its 110th anniversary. The company is described as the last remaining factory of its kind in the United States, operating as the broader industry has largely shifted production overseas.

The business is run by fourth-generation co-owner Adam Brand and his father, Warren Brand. In a statement, Adam Brand said that while there were once over 400 feather and flower manufacturers in the U.S., his company is the last one practicing the craft. The factory reportedly produces more than 100,000 floral elements each year by starching fabric, cutting it with vintage dies, and assembling the pieces by hand.

The company's hand-made floral creations have gained high-profile visibility, appearing on runways, red carpets, and in television productions like "Bridgerton" and "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel." One report noted that M&S Schmalberg created flowers for 17 celebrities at the 2022 Met Gala, with its pieces having been worn by figures such as Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Sarah Jessica Parker.

Despite this, the family has stated it is not seeking fame. Warren Brand emphasized that the business operates like a family and that they love what they do. Adam Brand added that personal heirloom projects hold a more lasting impact for the company.

Left Perspective

  • The company preserves a unique American manufacturing tradition.
  • Its handmade creations have gained significant cultural relevance.
  • The business is driven by passion and personal connection rather than fame.

Right Perspective

  • The domestic fabric flower industry has almost entirely vanished.
  • The dominant production model has shifted away from the United States.
  • The factory's success is concentrated in a niche, high-end market.

How it may affect me

As a U.S. reader:

• The activities of this last remaining U.S. fabric flower factory are unlikely to have a direct, significant impact on the general public or consumer markets.

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