About Us

Greensmith Studios

PRESERVING THE OLD, WELCOMING THE NEW

Spring is a season of transition and Spring 2021 introduced exciting changes at Greensmith Florist & Fine Gifts. After nearly forty years of ownership Roger and Sheila Jacobs have sold the century old florist and greenhouse to Battle Creek residents Gerard and Patrice Gausselin under the name Greensmith Studios. Studios conveys the new focus for 295 Emmett Street where our vision is to provide memorable, one-of-a-kind experiences to our community while serving their floral, plant and custom art needs. The professional trained design team have over 100 combined years of experience with education in horticulture and floral design. The owner is a Certified Florist and active member of the Great Lakes Floral Association. 

The Gausselin’s will preserve the established floral business while the gift shop will be expanding to include Gerard’s custom art gallery and the greenhouse revitalized as a working studio.  The lower level is a leased space with a café called Sun's Out Bun's Out, who offer gourmet burgers, fries and weekly specials. 

ABOUT THE OWNERS

GERARD GAUSSELIN – A Chicago native who was recognized for his gift in art and design during early education years. His passion was fueled by mentor encouragement and rewarded with an Illinois Arts Council scholarship as a top three performer for creative aptitude and a Northwestern University prestigious honor in graphic design. He earned a Bachelor Fine Arts from Kendall School of Art & Design and a Master’s in Business Management from Aquinas College in Grand Rapids Michigan. He pursued a professional career in Merchandising with outstanding industry achievements in retail advertising for many national brands, including some here in his now hometown at Kellogg’s as the first ever “Manager of Merchandising Innovation”, Golden K award recipient and publication on creative magazine covers. He was the youngest member elected to the Point of Purchase Advertising Board of Directors and an active speaker and chair of industry events. He founded his own retail marketing agency in 2010 and now in 2021 is ready for his next creative endeavor with the launch of Greensmith Studios. His artistic style is bold, colorful with a focus on abstract realism, impressionism and blended genres. He is offering both two and three-dimensional pieces for sale and welcomes the excitement of creating custom pieces for clients. 

PATRICE GAUSSELIN – A northside Battle Creek native who met Gerard during collegiate years at Aquinas College while studying at the opposite end of the spectrum in the sciences. Patrice is professionally known for her analytical thinking, strategic vision, interpersonal skills and love of a challenge while personally many would say she loves to plan a last-minute party complete with an abundance of food, inviting ambiance and to go boxes for all. During a thirty-five-year career in Research and Development she grew from bench chemist in product development into executive leadership holding positions in strategic planning, program management and business systems. As a people person, she is always connecting someone to someone else or to something. A lifelong learner with hobbies in arts & crafts, sewing, cooking, gardening, and painting Patrice sees endless opportunities with the new business venture. Initial focus is within the floral studio under the mentorship of the Greensmith Florist design team and building community awareness to bring the Greensmith Studios vision to life. Patrice is a Certified Professional of Floral Design through the Great Lakes Floral Association and intends to continue her floral education at the national and international level.