Monthly Featured Businesses: June 2022

Susana Naranjo, Owner of Flower Carriage by Ms. Cardel (Center) accepts the Featured Business of the Month certificate from Glenn Morris, President/CEO of the Santa Maria Valley Chamber (left) and Mike Cordero, City Council Member for the City of Santa Maria (right).

The City of Santa Maria and Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce are partnering to highlight different businesses in the City of Santa Maria through their Santa Maria Featured Businesses program. This program gives recognition to businesses who have been in the community for a significant amount of time, and/or providing unique or significant contributions to our community. Not only does this give valuable exposure to these local businesses, it also reminds our community of the unique, diverse and longstanding businesses we are fortunate to have in Santa Maria.

The focus for 12 months, since December 2021, is on major manufacturers and women-owned businesses in the City. Each month, one business from each of these two categories is recognized during the City Council meeting and publicized by the City and the Chamber.

June 2022 Featured Businesses

• Women-Owned Business: Flower Carriage by Ms. Cardel

• Manufacturing Business: Hardy Diagnostics

Flower Carriage by Ms. Cardel was established in 1977, and Susana Naranjo became the owner in 2008. The business has grown, mostly due its dedicated customers in the community. The five-employee company provides wedding services, and event planning and services, and is adding a flower and/or plant service to businesses. Flower Carriage does many donations to local high schools and to businesses for silent auctions and fund-raisers.

Hardy Diagnostics is a 100 percent employee-owned company that is licensed by the FDA as a medical device manufacturer. Its microbiology products are used all over the world to diagnose and prevent disease. During the pandemic it produced 30 million viral transport media tubes, by working six days a week, two shifts, for more than a year to meet the needs of America. Formed in 1980, the company now has 430 employees. It is looking to expand production in both Santa Maria and its Springboro, OH facilities.

Businesses are chosen by the Chamber of Commerce. To nominate a business or ask about the program, contact Glenn Morris at the Chamber via email at glenn@ santamaria.com or by phone at (805) 925- 2403 extension 825.