1of7Chris Alderete, owner of The Rose Boutique, adjusts a green plant with bright Stargazer lilies. She uses her years of experience as a home health care professional and hospice administrator to help ease the grief of customers mourning loved ones.Photo: Bob Owen /San Antonio Express-News Years ago, Chris Alderete sat at the bedside of a woman who was clinging to life, waiting for her son to arrive. For more than two decades, as a home health care professional and hospice administrator, Alderete has witnessed the grace of last goodbyes. Now, as the owner of a floral shop, she’s using that experience to help grieving San Antonians in a different way. “I tell them they’re not alone,” said Alderete, 69. “I try to give them solutions to some degree. There is no recipe for what brings you closer to that individual. Our staff understands our mission, and we’ve carved out our own niche.” In her lifetime, she’s navigated the tumultuous landscape of politics, hosted a show called “Today’s Ministries” on Catholic television and supported community initiatives. But it’s caring for people that’s her calling. Four and a half years ago, the previous owners of the Rose Boutique approached her about taking over the business. Today, she relies on four staff members and her management skills to help clients as part of a network of floral shops across the city. Alderete said they’ve provided arrangements for the funerals of former Mayor Lila Cockrell; former U.S. Housing Secretary and Mayor Henry Cisneros’ mother, Elvira; and Bexar County Commissioner Paul Elizondo. Part of the healing process starts at her ornate wooden desk that’s a confessional of sorts. Instead of revealing sins to find peace, however, the grieving seek serenity through floral remembrances and tributes at the shop on Cincinnati near Woodlawn Lake. Alderete […]