Stefan Karatzas grew up in the flower business. His parents, George and Linda Karatzas, ran Commack Florist through his childhood, and by high school he was working in the shops in earnest, from processing flowers and taking orders to the holiday delivery rush.
After the family bought James Cress Florist in 2021, Stefan led its move online, turning a century-old local florist into a national brand that delivers flowers and gift baskets across the United States and Canada. As Chief Operating Officer he runs operations across the shops and the website, and as Director of Revenue Growth he is responsible for the company's growth: pricing, product mix, partnerships and the delivery network.
Stefan writes most of the James Cress blog. His articles cover flower meanings and symbolism, seasonal and holiday flowers, and practical advice on sending flowers for birthdays, sympathy and everyday occasions.







