Most people move the other way — the Midwest to California. But you moved to the Midwest. Why do you live in St. Louis and what brought you here?
My paternal grandmother, Lena Shelton, always lived here, in the Webster Groves and Kirkwood areas. She was born in Cuba, Mo., and was a descendant of Israel Boone, Daniel Boone's older brother. I visited her often when I was a child and I always loved it here. When she got sick several years ago I came to help take care of her and when she died, I just stayed. By then, it was home.
What is it that you like about St. Louis?
I really like the architecture and the history. The city has character and history. I think I like the neighborhoods best of all.
You studied business in school. Did you ever use your degree?
I worked as a banker in San Francisco for 11 years. But I put myself through college doing floral design. While I was working at the bank, my mother went to work for a winery and I started doing special events for them. That's how I realized I could make a living at floral design and I quit the bank.
Did you ever have your own floral business?
For about three years I had a coffee and gift shop in Springfield, Mo., which is where my dad lives.
When did you actually move to St. Louis?
I moved here six years ago and went to work for Straub's two years ago. This situation is perfect for me. I loved owning my own business, but it required too much of my time and I found that when I was doing all right brain work, my left brain work suffered and vice versa.
I understand that you wind up doing a lot more than just floral designs for customers.
Oh, yes, I'm sort of an unofficial concierge, especially for customers in the Central West End. I recommend restaurants and welcome newcomers to the area. But I work for all the Straub's markets and I go into people's houses and help them set up for parties and events of all sorts. I help them plan the menu if they ask, although we have a full catering department at the markets, too. I love it.
You're busy in the community in other ways, too. What else do you do?
Let's see — I speak monthly and give demonstrations at the Cupples House at St. Louis University. The engagements are free and we always have some wine and cheese on hand. It's a way to take my energy past the counter and I really enjoy it. I also appear on Show Me St. Louis. I did a whole house for the Central West End house tour, and that house will be featured in an upcoming issue of St. Louis Home. I opened the Napoleon exhibit at the St. Louis Art Museum and I regularly do benefits for the St. Louis Cathedral.
Sounds like a busy schedule. Do you have time for any hobbies?
I'm an oil painter. I also sing and play the piano and I was part of the choir at the basilica. My paintings are owned by Sen. Hillary Clinton, St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay, television's David E. Kelley, President George W. Bush, Missouri Attorney General Jay Nixon and former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown Jr., among others.
What do you do for fun?
I love to travel around Missouri and Illinois, going to flea markets and antique shops. I like to get ideas from the landscape and terrain in the area. I love canoe trips and I also work out regularly, rollerblading, ice skating and at the gym.
What do you drive?
My birthday dream car — a brand-new black Jeep Wrangler hard top. I love it — it's got mag wheels, those big chromy things. I've put 12,000 miles on it in three months.
Scott Hepper
