As the air begins to grow cooler, excitement builds with the onset of the holiday season. Lights and decorations begin to fill the windows of South Georgia’s downtown shops, and the familiar sounds and smells of Thanksgiving and Christmas create an atmosphere that excites everyone’s inner child. In downtown Valdosta, one shop has elaborately decorated for the holidays, hoping to spread cheer and enthusiasm that will last throughout the season.

Susan Mullis, owner of The Flower Gallery, loves Christmas and finds that it is the most popular season with her customers as well. In preparation, her expert staff works long hours to fill every space in the shop with vibrant reds, timeless evergreens, and bright whites that come together to make the perfect winter wonderland. The shop’s displays include unique and fashionable touches, like pheasant feathers and deer antlers amidst deep crimson ribbons and gold, glittering ornaments. Each nook and corner offers a different holiday look to satisfy customers with a variety of tastes.

According to Mullis, creativity distinguishes The Flower Gallery from other florists. “We take great pride in offering our customers arrangements and décor that are special and exclusive, things they don’t see anywhere else,” Mullis said. “Composing artistic arrangements is our passion, and we love what we do. We provide an excellent selection of flowers and plants from all over the world, and we take great care to ensure that they are beautiful and long-lasting.” In addition to beautiful arrangements, Mullis said her shop offers gifts for every budget, including candles, permanent botanicals, and specialty décor items. “Time with family in a beautiful atmosphere is what makes the season so special,” Mullis said of her favorite holiday. “Here in the South, it’s all about remembering the reason for the season as we count our blessings and spend time with those we love.”

Charity is also a prominent theme of the holidays, and Mullis believes that giving back to the community is essential. Each year, The Flower Gallery participates annually in Make Someone Smile Week (July) by delivering flowers to local nursing home residents. “We have been blessed to have tremendous support from our community, and we believe in giving back,” Mullis said. “We are proud to help support many local charities.”

The Flower Gallery has served clients all over Georgia for 40 years and specializes in personalized arrangements, weddings and receptions, holidays, and home and office decorating. Mullis has owned the business for 17 years and has earned great praise from her clients, being named the Valdosta Daily Times Readers’ Choice winner for Best Florist for 12 years and Best Customer Service for 3 years. Mullis currently serves as Georgia’s State Teleflora President.

Health Life |  November 2016
It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas
Written by: Miranda Moore