A Victoria florist has joined a worldwide movement to brighten the lives of strangers with random acts of flower philanthropy during the holiday season.
The Christmas Lonely Bouquet project was launched by the British Florist Association. During the first week of December, florists and floral designers in the U.K. randomly placed small bouquets in public places for passersby to find and take home. December was chosen because the month can be a lonely one for some people.
Jennifer Roberts Florist in Victoria has also embraced the opportunity to spread the love of flowers, along with florists in Russia, Germany, Australia and the U.S.
“It’s such a beautiful idea,” said owner Jennifer Roberts, whose shop is at 1323 Walnut St.
“I feel like the Easter Bunny. I have been leaving the bouquets on park benches, at the hospice, at bus stops and café tables — anywhere people will likely walk past.”
She said she has created three bouquets a day — although, if she could afford it, she would create 10 or 20.
The bouquets have her card on it with the words “Take me home” on the other side and an explanation of the idea behind the unexpected gift. The card also encourages the finder to contact her and tell her how the simple gesture affected them.
“I don’t need a thank you,” Roberts said. “It’s just nice to hear their reaction.”
Roberts doesn’t stay around to catch the reaction of the people who come across the bouquet. She uses her imagination instead.
“I know people who get excited to find a dime, so I can imagine the look on their faces when they find the bouquet.”