Laila's florist — Local services in New York

So unsettled and disappointed! I stopped by this store yesterday and asked for a small arrangement for congratulations for a new baby. The gentleman showed me an arrangement he had finished working on. I asked him how much it was and he told me $95. I expressed that I did not want to spend that much and if it was possible to make a smaller bouquet He told me he had a small bouquet, and showed me some welted tulips for $15. I told him I want something nicer, and if it was possible to get for something for $40-$50, I was told no. The gentleman begins to explain that it's the neighborhood and continues to list how much each stem of flowers costs. He also told me, "I wish I could help you out but my boss is here." I then became defensive and responded that I 'm familiar with the neighborhood that I lived in for over 20 years and I didn't need a lesson on how much each stem of flowers costs. I began to walk away frustrated. I felt so put down and upset. I headed back and asked to see the boss. My first question to the boss, another unfriendly man, was is it not possible to spend less than $90 for them to make a nice bouquet or arrangement since there are no pre-made arrangements to choose from? His response was "we're not a bodega". I walked out and said, you guys are offensive. As a woman of color, I couldn't help but feel that there were some preconceived descriptors and biases towards me. Would the shop's response and lack of courtesy have been the same if I was not a person of color? I happily took my business to Jerome Florist & Gifts and was welcomed with respect, patience...

When I first entered the flower store It looked all like a jungle to me, but then the owner that looks like my high school principal lectured me about the beauty of all the flowers and it’s importance in nature. This inspired me to work as a party coordinator for parties that need nice decorations. As a result, the owner asked me if I wanted something really nice but for a cheap price since it was my beautiful mother’s birthday. He gladly brought out a nice looking bouquet and gave me a nice price. He eventually gave me his business card and we kept in touch every time I needed flowers for parties. One day he introduced me to his family and I noticed that one of my friends was there. It was unbelievable that one of my friends dad owned a flower shop. I felt welcomed ever since I stepped foot inside Laila’s flower shop and now I feel even more welcomed. I highly recommend Laila’s flower shop to be one of the...

Laila’s Florist is truly the best on the Upper East Side. Marco has been working with my family for many years and consistently creates the most beautiful, thoughtful arrangements. His craftsmanship and kindness never go unnoticed. Thank you, Marco and the entire Laila’s team, for your...