Luther Burbank once remarked, “Flowers always make people better, happier and more helpful; they are sunshine, food and medicine for the soul.”
With the continuing COVID crisis, the exhausting political arena, and short winter days, a cheery, colorful bouquet can be just the ticket to salve our battered souls. We could even take a cue from Kate Greenaway, who, in 1884, published The Language of the Flowers, with a list of definitions for each flower. For example, you could send several hibiscus flowers to your intended recipient, and your flower message would be, “Delicate Beauty.” Or, you could send a bouquet with two or more different types of flowers and send a more elaborate message. For example, if your bouquet contained honeysuckle and lily of the valley, your message would be, “Generous and Devoted Affection and Return of Happiness.” Using Greenaway’s book in the upcoming Valentine’s holiday could help you convey your intentions in a truly eloquent way.
We are lucky enough, here in Benicia, to have TWO amazing and completely different flower shops in our downtown.
The first, Daughter of Luna, a unique flower and gift shop located at 931 1st St., and owned by Michelle Yong since 2019, offers more than the usual seasonal blooms. Daughter of Luna has houseplants, greeting cards, candles, home décor, and more. Just walking through the store will lower your blood pressure as you gaze at artfully arranged plants and floral arrangements. Yong’s eye for color and detail results in a panoply of desirable gift items for yourself or others. Her website is chock full of imaginative arrangements, greeting cards, and gift boxes in all price ranges, if you prefer to shop from home. Daughter of Luna is an homage to the owner’s mother, who ran a San Francisco gift shop for many years. Shop online at dolfloral.com or call 707.750.5167. Or, stop in and commune with the flowers when you next venture out.
Sweetness and Light Floral Design, at 301 1st St., is a decidedly different sort of flower shop, as their primary focus is flowers and events. Even during this time of smaller weddings, owner Wendi and her staff are capable of handling all the components of your special occasion: caterers, flowers, linens, seating, etc. Wendi has been handling weddings since 2012, and has been featured in Bay Area Bride, a showcase of Bay Area weddings, and Junebug Weddings, a popular wedding blog. Her specialty is outdoor weddings and she excels at helping couples create their personal dream wedding. True love knows no bounds, apparently. Wendi also can assist you with other events, including receptions and memorials. Sweetness and Light will deliver your arrangement and has been quite busy transporting orders for people hesitant to go out. If you wish, you can peruse a variety of floral offerings online at sweetnessandlight.com, make your choice and order online. You can also order by phone at 707.652.5599. Make someone’s day today and send them some cheerful posies. You’ll be glad you did!
