International Women's Day

We often take the time to stop and acknowledge our wonderful team - but occasions such as International Women’s Day, are a timely reminder to celebrate the achievements and dedication of our colleagues past and present who’ve contributed so much to the floral fabric of Moyses Stevens.

Flowers, specifically mimosa have long-held relevance for International Women’s Day. At the end of WW2, feminists in Italy gave the sunshine-infused flower the poignant symbolism of strength (it may look very delicate, but the plant can survive hostile conditions) - today posies of mimosa are gifted on 8th March all around the world.

Inspiring women are at the very core of our history. Did you know, we are indeed a female-founded company? Susan Moyses launched her first flower shop in Victoria, London in 1876 and together with Husband Harold Stevens built a floristry business so synonymous with beauty and quality that by the 1920’s their renowned Berkely Square site was described as ‘veritable Chelsea Flower Show every day of the year’ - a standard that is still maintained across Moyses Stevens stores nearly 150 years later. Women power every corner of the business - from delivering world-class events flowers to inspiring future floral stars in our flower school.

We were recently notified of the passing of Joan, who worked for Moyses for over forty years. She was featured in ‘The Story of the Flower Shop From Victorian Times to the Present Day’ - beautifully written by Jennifer Davis, published by Headline, London, 2000. In 1948, Joan Pearson's stepfather wrote to Moyses Stevens asking if there was an opening for seventeen-year-old Joan. After three and a half years of training she progressed to become one of the senior floral designers, meeting the rich and famous, decorating many amazing London landmarks, and passed her knowledge to students during her evening classes.


She stayed with the company until her retirement. She remembers


‘When the Queen was still Princess Elizabeth, we went to Clarence House twice a week. I can remember Prince Charles when he was a very little boy offering us a piece of fudge. I also helped decorate for banquets at Buckingham Palace. The gold plate on the table looked lovely, and the distance between place settings was measured. When the Queen came to inspect, people melted away, but on one occasion I remained behind with Mrs Howard Stevens and was presented to the Queen.’ Happy International Women’s Day, and a special toast to Joan and all the amazing women who came before us!