After 63 years of creating stunning florals in Townsville, Malpara Florist is entering a fresh new chapter with a change of ownership.
The award-winning business, run by George and Anna Gianoulis since 1995, is passing the baton to Maree and Dale O’Shea. Maree is no stranger to the weddings and events scene, as the owner of custom cake studio Sweeter Than Sugar and event styling business Hello Picnic.
“I’m thrilled to continue the incredible legacy that Anna and George have built with Malpara. Its long-standing reputation in Townsville reflects the exceptional quality of their work and the strong relationships they’ve fostered with customers,” Maree says.
A Natural Expansion
Maree’s business journey began 15 years ago when, as a busy single mum working in real estate, she struggled to find a cake for her daughter’s first birthday. Rekindling her childhood love of baking, Maree took to the kitchen and whipped up a batch of cupcakes – much to the delight of friends at the party.
Word quickly spread – soon colleagues, clients, and then even complete strangers began requesting Maree’s birthday cakes. Within six months, she left real estate to bake full-time, turning her passion into a thriving custom cake business, Sweeter Than Sugar.
In early 2024, Maree expanded by acquiring Hello Picnic, an established bespoke event styling business. “I thrive on creativity, so it’s an extra outlet for me,” Maree explains.
It was also a chance to create opportunities for her family.
“Looking to the future, my husband Dale and I saw it as a great business for one of our kids,” Maree says. Their four children, aged between twelve and eighteen, are already learning the ropes of the family business firsthand.
Maree’s dedication, business acumen and creativity haven’t gone unnoticed. In August 2024, Maree won the national AusMumpreneur award for Best Events Business. She has also received local accolades through the Townsville Business Women’s Circle.
Building on this success, and with years of experience incorporating florals into cakes and event styling, Maree saw the opportunity to acquire Malpara Florist as a natural next step.
“Malpara is an iconic business, and there’s a wonderful synergy with my other ventures. I’m already planning to offer beautiful bouquets paired with Sweeter Than Sugar baked treats – it’s an exciting new direction for the business,” she explains.
A Collaboration, Not Just a Sale
For long-time Malpara owners George and Anna Gianoulis, selecting the right person to take over the business was a crucial decision.
“Preserving Malpara’s reputation is really important to us. We wanted someone who could uphold its values while bringing a fresh vision for the future,” Anna says.
“Maree’s creativity and passion really stood out. Passing Malpara on to another family feels like the perfect fit, and we are happy to retire knowing the business is in capable hands,” George adds.
Even during negotiations, it was evident that both parties were committed to a smooth transition process. In the six weeks before settlement, Maree was fully immersed in the business, getting to know regular clients, building relationships with suppliers, and getting hands-on experience with operations.
“It’s not a walk-in, walk-out transaction. It’s a comprehensive business transfer,” Maree says. “I’m so grateful to George and Anna for offering guidance during the transition.
“Over the years, they established a very effective operational system at Malpara. I’ll continue to follow their processes and keep the structure in place while bringing new eyes to reinvigorate the business.”
Flowers and Floods
Valentine’s Day – one of the busiest days for any florist – marked the start of the business transition. With hundreds of customer orders and ten thousand roses on the way, the team at Malpara was ready for a huge day.
Then, when severe flooding cut off access across North Queensland, Valentine’s Day became a logistical nightmare.
“Roads were closed. Some flights were grounded. The experience was a baptism of fire, but witnessing how the Malpara team tackled it head-on was incredibly valuable,” Maree shares. “The team came together to secure alternative ways to bring in flowers from southern suppliers.
“The situation reinforced the importance of having strong supplier relationships. When unexpected challenges arise, having suppliers who are willing to work with you on contingency plans makes all the difference.”
Despite the challenges, every order was delivered – thanks to a strong team, strategic problem-solving, and successful collaboration.
The Future Blooms
Malpara’s experienced team of thirteen – some with over thirty years at the business – will remain under Maree’s ownership.
“Malpara has an amazing team. Even with the new ownership, the backbone of the business will stay the same,” Maree says.
Alongside Malpara’s team, Maree is preparing for key floral events within the first two months at the helm.
“We have Anzac Day, Easter and Mother’s Day coming up. We’ve finalised product offerings, selected colour themes and placed orders with suppliers,” she says.
For Easter, Malpara will offer beautiful spring bouquets and themed table settings, along with Sweeter Than Sugar’s popular Easter treats. Mother’s Day will introduce specialty cookies, with flower and cookie gift combinations.
Long-term, Maree envisions Malpara as Townsville’s go-to wedding destination. “With florals, specialty cakes, and event styling, we’re creating a one-stop wedding shop,” she explains.
Malpara Florist will continue to trade from its two locations in Hermit Park and Willows Shopping Centre, serving Townsville with the same dedication and creativity that has made it a local favourite for decades.
Image credits: Shae K Photographery
