Two sisters and a flower shop
"It was something they could grow – and throw – their hearts into. That was 1977, when Oxford was bustling with foot-traffic, before shuttle buses changed the pedestrian landscape."
This column was written by Virginia Maddocks
I have long roamed the alleys of Oxford. That’s how you find the sweet spots – the offbeat, tiny nooks that often go unnoticed. For 48 years, nestled in the alley between High and Walnut streets – just behind the Bagel and Deli Shop – is the Oxford Flower Shop, adorned with a colorful facade and a decorative window beckoning you to follow the rose petals through the front door. You should do it. You’ll like it.
It’s in the alley next to St. Mary’s Church: a true, family-owned business created by two sisters, Cindy Wellman Smith and Kathy Wellman Mason, right out of college with more enthusiasm than startup capital. Smith reminisced with me about the shop’s beginnings, saying, “It was a rough time. Our parents were declining in health, and this gave us something positive and exciting to focus on.”
It was something they could grow – and throw – their hearts into. That was 1977, when Oxford was bustling with foot-traffic, before shuttle buses changed the pedestrian landscape.
In those days, we did our business in person – browsing aisles, trying on clothing and paying in cash or with checks on-site. Oxford had two florists then.
With over 50 years of experience, the heart of Oxford Flower Shop lies in the personal touch, sisters who often go the extra mile to chase down an erroneous address or add a note with a hand-written message – things you do not get with a generic florist online.
“Many students come in to purchase a small wrapped bouquet to cheer someone up or to convey their feelings. It may be a gesture of love, a first meeting, an apology or maybe a way to say ‘Thank you,’” Mason said. “In our shop, customers are encouraged to pick out their own flowers. Involving them makes it more personal, and we have something for everyone’s budget”.
Smith gives credit for their smooth operation to the loyal people that have worked for them in the past, often planning their year so they can lend a helping hand during super busy times such as Mother’s Day, Graduation and Valentine’s Day.
“Not only is it remarkably thoughtful,” Smith said. “We could not do it without them, and we always have a lot of fun.”
“More importantly, Kathy and I work well together,” Smith continued. “We think and multitask the same way, listen to each other’s opinions and share a deep level of trust. Our sisterly bond and love for each other is bigger than this business. I believe that’s what has made Oxford Flower Shop successful.”
For some, the first trip to the florist is an intimidating experience. Their flowers are heavenly and their practiced expertise is down-to-earth. Their objective is joy. Giving flowers is a nonverbal language of appreciation in which both the giver and the recipient are uplifted. Flowers never go out of style. They are a bow to nature. The art of a colorful bouquet can crack open the malaise of a cloudy day just like that.
Oxford Flower Shop is located at 119 East High St. and is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Orders may also be placed online at oxfordflowershop.com or by calling (512) 523-7673.
