The DC community united together to save Flowers by Alexes, a beloved local shop at risk of eviction.
WASHINGTON — The local community has rallied together to save a local florist shop. Alexes Haggins, owner, moved through her shop on Wednesday evening with a sense of relief and resiliency.
Just days ago, she was in jeopardy of losing everything, as her shop came close to shutting down. But recent donations from the community helped keep the shop located on Upshur Street, NW DC open for business.
“Okay, Alexes! Let’s get back to what you used to do,” said Haggins, Owner of Flowers by Alexes.
The confidence blooming from the owner is backed by community support.
“My landlord is giving me until tomorrow to pay my rent before starting the eviction process,” she said in a video posted on Instagram.
Business had slowed after the nearby Farmers’ Market closed in November of last year.
That meant less foot traffic – even as operating expenses continued to rise.
The shop is more than just a business for her. It’s part of her family’s legacy. Haggins’ father opened ‘Flowers by Alexes’ in 1993 – a nod to his daughter.
His location was located on Upshur Street too. She promised him she’d continue his legacy before he died. A framed picture of him is hung on the wall by the entrance.
“Felt this is the perfect picture because he’s smiling and sees what I’m doing with Flowers by Alexes,” said Haggins.
Her post caught the attention of the DC community, and the message was shared by local business owners and community leaders. Haggins had a $15,000 donation goal on her GoFundMe.
Once her video went live, the dollars started pouring in – and so did her tears.
“I cried. I cried for two days straight,” said Haggins. “People not wanting to see my store close was so overwhelming – in a good way.”
“I was a couple of months behind, but the GoFundMe came through, and I was able to pay my rent up,” said Haggins.
There’s a lot more to smile about at the shop these days.
Haggins says people can still donate to the GoFundMe, but she’s also hoping people will shop during Valentine’s Day to keep their shop’s business momentum going.