As we reflect on Women’s History Month, we celebrate the incredible contributions of women who have made lasting impacts on their communities. One such woman is Miss Mary, the beloved owner of Flowers Just 4 U in Seattle’s Central District. She recently closed the doors to her shop for the final time, marking the end of a remarkable chapter in her life. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and unwavering dedication.
Miss Mary’s journey began while working full-time at Boeing, and with retirement approaching, she began thinking about the future and how she wanted to spend it. She began dreaming of a new path, and one way or another, flowers were the one thing that kept making its way back into her life. This inspiration led her to take a class at South Seattle Community College, leading to the realization that she had found her true calling and marking the beginning of a 40-year journey.
The heart of her work had always been the flowers themselves. When asked what aspect of her business brought her the most joy, she said, “Working with the fresh flowers and really getting to feel a deep connection to nature’s beauty.” Being able to share this connection with the community has been incredibly fulfilling. What kept Miss Mary motivated each day was the pride she felt in offering only the highest quality flowers. Whether for weddings or funerals, she treated each arrangement with the care she would for her own home, which made every order special. The shop’s best-sellers were always bouquets, particularly the “grab-and-go” style that proved to be a favorite among customers.
Miss Mary’s journey is an inspiration to all women, particularly Black business owners and entrepreneurs. In a time when women are constantly breaking barriers, Miss Mary’s story embodies the strength of following one’s heart and passion. Miss Mary’s advice to those dreaming of starting their own brick-and-mortar business is simply, “Set your goals high and never be afraid to challenge yourself.”
She is incredibly grateful for the long-lasting support of her community, which kept Flowers Just 4 U running throughout the years. Having closed the shop, she leaves with a sense of fulfillment, and the lasting impact her work has had in the neighborhood. As we honor Women’s History Month, we celebrate not just those that have come before us, but also the everyday women in our communities whose strength and courage make a lasting impact.
By: Emoni Valdovines
