BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Jami Graham, the owner of the White Oaks Florist shop is bringing cheer by delivering free flowers to essential workers throughout Kern County.
Since the COVID-19 outbreak, Graham has closed her doors and is offering curbside, delivery, phone, and online ordering services.
Graham has also made heartbreaking decisions regarding her staff.
"We let ten of them go, when we got the notice that non-essential businesses needed to close," Graham said. "I just assumed that we were non-essential and we wouldn’t get the orders. Now, there is this gray area and we are uncertain if we are essential."
According to Graham, her shop may be deemed essential because floral industries could fall under the food and agriculture category.
Now, they are waiting for the health department's decision.
"Once we have that clearance we will move forward, whether it’s closing our doors completely and shutting down; or we will continue doing what we are doing," Graham said.
Despite the whirlwind changes, Graham is looking on the bright side of the pandemic.
She is planting seeds of hope throughout Kern County, by delivering free tulip arrangements to families and essential workers.
"I asked everybody on social media to tag your friends, essential workers and anyone you would like to receive flowers," Graham shared. "I am taking all of those nominations, randomly choosing and I can’t wait to see all of those smiling faces."
On Friday, she delivered 25 arrangements. Depending on supplies she hopes to continue to have her flowers blossom throughout Bakersfield.
If you would like to nominate someone, head to White Oaks Florist on Instagram.
