At the bustling intersection of 23rd and Cherry, amid the fast-paced rhythm of life, Flowers Just-4-U stands as a testament to enduring craftsmanship and floral artistry. For 40 years, Mary Wesley, affectionately known as “Miss Mary” to her patrons, has been the heart and soul behind this iconic flower shop, leaving an indelible mark on Seattle’s Central District.
“I just love flowers,” Wesley expressed with genuine passion, encapsulating the essence of her enduring dedication to the floral craft.
Since its establishment in 1984, Flowers Just-4-U has been a cherished destination for Central District neighbors and even the Seahawks. Wesley’s floral creations have graced countless occasions, ranging from community celebrations to major sporting events.
Reflecting on the vast number of arrangements crafted over the decades, Wesley chuckled, “Tens of thousands. 40 years? That’s not just peanuts, that’s a big number… I’ve got to tell you, I did flowers for Liza Minelli. We’ve done flowers for the Mariners.”
Wesley’s journey began with a vision to fill a void in the community. Flowers Just-4-U was the first black-owned floral shop in the Central District, and one of the few in the region. The inspiration behind the venture stemmed from receiving a poorly executed bouquet, prompting Wesley to envision a floral haven that prioritized quality and customer satisfaction.
“It was just something I loved to do and it was giving something back to my community. We did not have a flower shop in the community,” she explained.
The community, in turn, reciprocated her loyalty. In 2020, faced with the threat of eviction, a groundswell of support emerged through a GoFundMe campaign, saving Flowers Just-4-U from closure.
Entering its 40th year in 2024, Flowers Just-4-U remains a pillar of the community, standing resilient with Wesley and her single employee, Sue Grimord, who affectionately notes, “We’re a family, we just are. Makes me cry.”
While retirement may have beckoned in 1997 when Wesley concluded her 29-year career at Boeing, Flowers Just-4-U emerged as her second act—a vibrant and joyous retirement. For Wesley, every floral creation is a testament to the profound significance of her career.
“It’s a very joyous thing. I can never find the words to say it how I’d like to express it because there’s not a word yet I think I could use that would really explain how I feel about my career,” she reflected.
Flowers Just-4-U continues to thrive, open every day but Sunday at 701 23rd Avenue in Seattle, offering exquisite arrangements available for delivery—a testament to Wesley’s enduring legacy in the heart of the Central District.
