Soul of the CD: Flowers Just-4-U blossoms with community support

SEATTLE – “Whether or not it is dying or a brand new child, flowers say all of it.” These phrases spoken by Mary Wesley, higher often known as Miss Mary. For the final 4 a long time she’s run one of many solely Black-owned flower retailers within the Sound. At the same time as the world round her continues to blossom with new improvement, she stays planted within the Central District. 

It was the neighborhood within the Central District that got here to her assist, elevating $26,000, when her flower store was going through eviction in 2020.

“Oh God that meant the world to me,” mentioned Wesley.  “I couldn’t imagine my eyes. I couldn’t imagine what I used to be seeing. How the neighborhood got here collectively and supported me in the course of the unhealthy instances. And ever since then. I thank my God. Issues have nonetheless been rolling excessive. The neighborhood is the soul assist of my operation.”

What began as a pastime bloomed right into a second profession for Wesley, who spent 29 years working for Boeing.

“I simply began jotting down issues I want to do after retirement,” mentioned Wesley. “One thing like a little bit pastime that I can earn cash doing. So I jotted down a number of issues, however flowers at all times ended up coming again round on my checklist.” 

Wesley went again to highschool and graduated with diploma in flower design in 1984. She opened Flowers Simply-4-U the identical 12 months and describes her present of placing collectively preparations as a blessing from heaven.

“My priest would say it’s your ministry. It’s one thing that God has instilled in us, and it’s laborious to clarify. However the minute I get that container and set it up and begin engaged on my undertaking. It’s identical to a dream. Like calling my quantity. Issues simply begin falling into spot.”

Wesley says Alstroemeria is her favourite flower. However her favourite bouquet is made up of the purchasers which were strolling by her entrance door for the final 39 years.

“I just like the interplay with folks. That’s crucial for me. I can by no means get sufficient of Flowers Simply-4-U. I’m like a child, I come down right here each morning to open up the shop and say good morning to my clients. Have just a few phrases with them. Joyful phrases.”