It’s still not too late to get in your nomination for a #DECAGem. Today is the last day so be sure to let us know your favourite local biz and why they’re a gem, how it is hidden, and why it deserves a marketing prize pack. You can nominate it on Facebook (DanforthEastCommunityAssociation), Twitter (@decadiaries using the hashtag #DECAgems) or by e-mail at DECAgems@gmail.com.
You may have heard a little bit about the speciality Japanese ikebana flower arrangements available at NaNa Florits for just $10. Here’s a little more about this #DECAGem nominee.
What would you do with the prize package?
While they have a website, they’re looking to get some support and guidance on how to use social media for their business. Also, some photography work would be helpful.
Why Danforth East?
In 2010, Teresa, Mauro and their grown son, Sean, moved to Canada from Japan and settled at Coxwell and Gerrard. Shiro used to be in the hospitality industry in Japan while Teresa did Ikebana. They were familiar with the east end (Teresa and Mauro had lived here for from 1974-1990) and they liked the idea of having a business on the “prestigious” Danforth. Two years ago in 2013, the family officially opened their business.
So, what is Ikebana?
Ikebana is a Japanese art of flower arrangement which emphasizes a minimalist philosophy. Usually there is one main curved branch with only a few flowers used in each arrangement. All design aspects of the arrangement are purposefully designed with each colour and flower having significance in the Japanese culture. For example, they recently made an arrangement for an 80 year old that used yellow because yellow is used for those in their 80s.
What Changes have they seen in the hood?
They have noticed some stores in this stretch have closed down and are working to improve the block. They tried a sidewalk sale to get people walking their stretch of the Danforth, and they really enjoy being in the community.
Favourite Customer Story:
Apparently we in Danforth East have some explaining to do, as our friendly Nana florists report that they get a lot of orders for apologies. Some go for the $200 ‘Forgive me’ bouquets, while others order one stem each week (until forgiven?). Their favourite story is the order for 88 red roses for someone turning 88 years old.
Fun Fresh Fact:
The Maruo’s go to a flower auction every day and buy straight from the growers. This means that they are create arrangements using Ontario flowers, which last for a very long time. In facet, one customer who comes every Saturday for her standing order of a dozen roses always s remarks that her flowers from the week before haven’t died before she comes in to get her next order.
