Ogden, a city renowned for its scenic beauty, is also home to a thriving floral legacy that has spanned an impressive 75 years. It all began on September 2, 1948, when Jimmy Kusuda established his inaugural floral boutique situated just above the intersection of Washington Boulevard and 25th Street.
Drawing inspiration from his cousin’s floral expertise in California, Kusuda embarked on this venture after his tenure in the U.S. Army. His vision was firmly rooted in making Ogden not only his residence and family haven but also the perfect backdrop for his floral enterprise, aptly named Jimmy’s Flowers. A testament to his dedication, Kusuda, often described as the “worker bee,” predominantly operated behind the scenes, ensuring the meticulous execution of orders. His wife, Aiko, graced the front of the business, captivating patrons with her personable demeanor and forging lasting relationships.
As time marched on, thoughts of transitioning the business’s ownership surfaced as Jimmy and Aiko grew older. Tragedy struck the family when Jimmy passed away in 2016 at the remarkable age of 99, followed by Aiko’s passing in 2022, just shy of her 102nd birthday. Mike Kusuda, their son, shared insights into the family’s journey, revealing the loss of his brother due to COVID and how his two surviving siblings pursued different career paths. Mike, however, had always harbored familiarity with the trade, having worked at the shop during his formative years.
“I worked there through high school and college, so I knew the business pretty well,” Mike reminisced. “It’s a very labor-intensive business and it’s changed a lot since 1948.”
Amidst its evolution, the shop’s location experienced several shifts before settling into its current residence at 2735 Washington Blvd. Expanding its reach, two additional stores sprouted in Layton and Bountiful, with a warehouse operating in Syracuse. The business, now overseen by Mike Kusuda as the owner and CEO, boasts a dedicated workforce of 65 employees who diligently manage orders, create stunning arrangements, and ensure timely deliveries.
Kusuda delved into the transformation the industry has witnessed over the decades. “The industry has really evolved over the years. A lot has changed,” he acknowledged. “About 70% of our product comes out of South America and California, and we buy directly from growers so we can get much fresher products at a better price.”
The impact of Jimmy’s Flowers reaches far and wide, as their blooms grace not only homes but also weddings and events across the state and parts of Idaho. Their wholesale arm caters to other retailers and independent designers, solidifying their role in the broader floral landscape.
In commemoration of this momentous milestone, Jimmy’s Flowers is set to host a special sale during the third week of September. An offering that exemplifies both gratitude and generosity, customers can acquire a dozen roses for an astonishing $7.50, a stark contrast to their regular retail price ranging from $59 to $70.
As preparations for the celebratory event take shape, Mike Kusuda expressed his sentiments, “We thought it would be something nice to do to commemorate 75 years in business and to also let our customers know how much we appreciate them… We couldn’t even begin to do it all ourselves.”
The legacy of Jimmy’s Flowers, deeply intertwined with the spirit of Ogden, stands as a testament to dedication, adaptability, and the enduring beauty of nature’s creations.
