The winner of the Sooke Region Chamber of Commerce’s Business Excellence Award in the People’s Choice and Retail Services categories has never strayed far from her roots.
“I started out growing and selling flowers at country markets 21 years ago,” said Karen Stones, owner of A Sea of Bloom Flowers and Gifts. “I moved into doing flowers for weddings before I opened the shop in 2008.”
Stones said she was “really shocked” to hear her name called out at the awards gala on Nov. 18, to the point where she didn’t hear the cheers and shouts of encouragement that her husband said followed the announcement.
In addition to dried and fresh flowers and indoor plants, A Sea of Bloom showcases the work of more than 80 local artisans and companies with gifts that range from art, jewellery, natural body products, fabric, local teas, preserves and varieties of vinegar, to name a few.
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“I get a lot of feedback expressing their appreciation,” Stones said. “Our tag line is ‘flowers, gifts and beautiful things’ because of the assortment we offer, and we get lots of compliments on our displays. A lot of people call the business their go-to store.”
Stones is a big believer in the importance of supporting local businesses, with many of the products she carries resulting from connections she’s forged with people she met at farmers’ markets over the years.
That theme of connectivity extends to her customers as well.
”I’m very blessed and thankful for all the customers I have,” Stones said. “Many have been with me for years, including people who come into the store regularly who used to buy flowers from me in my country market days.”
She appreciates the opportunity to express her gratitude to her customers and fellow business entrepreneurs who voted for her.
“And special thanks to my husband, Francis, and my employees Nicole, Michelle, and Rowan for all their hard work and support,” she added. “And I’m really grateful to the local artisans for sharing their creations in our shop as well.”
