Andover Flower Shop Owner Cultivates French Blooms and a Sense of Happiness
Sandra Sigman, the owner of Les Fleurs flower shop in Andover, has created a haven of happiness with her French-inspired blooms. The shop, which she started with her mother 34 years ago, is a delightful space where flowers are meticulously arranged by hue in the flower bar, filling the air with a soothing fragrance.
During a visit to Les Fleurs, a variety of flowers caught the eye, including locally grown blooms from farms and Sigman’s own garden. Lisianthus, ranunculus, coral bells, peonies, and delphiniums were thoughtfully displayed, showcasing the beauty of nature. Shelves adorned with woven baskets, ceramics, glass cloches, and tureens displayed an array of stunning containers waiting to be paired with plants or flowers.
Sigman’s store design, much like her book Always bloom where you are planted, aims to elicit happiness. Her love for flowers traces back to her childhood when her mother operated a home floral business in Worcester. They would rush to arrange blooms they purchased from the Boston Flower Exchange for sale in local supermarkets – an exciting and fast-paced American enterprise.
In her early twenties, Sigman had an opportunity to perform as a figure skater in Paris. While skating at night, she interned at a floral shop during the day, immersing herself in the French style of flower arrangement and experiencing how flowers became an integral part of daily life there. The charm and elegance of the city left a lasting impression on her.
Homesick and eager to bring French flower sensibilities to Andover, Sigman decided to establish Les Fleurs. Unfortunately, her mother passed away a month after they opened the shop. Dedicated to her mom and photographer Kindra Clineff, the two key contributors to French Blooms, Sigman shares her knowledge and passion for flowers in the book, which has been a success, with over 25,000 copies sold as of June.
In France, Sigman honed her skills in the native approach to floral arrangements and selective flower buying. She discovered the beauty of seasonal varieties, the importance of using exotic greenery like rosemary, and the significance of favoring flowers found at the market. Back in Andover, she cultivated her own French cutting garden.
Her book, filled with captivating photography, anecdotes, and practical tips for arranging flowers, has been well-received by readers. Many keep it bedside for night reading or take it to the beach or garden for inspiration.
While France and Andover may have their differences, Sigman believes they share a sense of community. Downtown Andover, like France, boasts numerous mom-and-pop stores where people know each other. Sigman has had the pleasure of providing flowers for customers’ weddings, baby showers, and even their children’s weddings.
Despite her fondness for France, Sigman is firmly rooted in Andover, where she tends to her blooming business. Together with her husband, an orthopedic surgeon, she owns an apartment in Paris near the floral shop where she interned many years ago. However, her heart remains in Andover, where she has cultivated not only extraordinary blooms but also a sense of happiness within Les Fleurs.
In conclusion, Sigman’s dedication to her craft and the joy she brings to her customers through her French-inspired floral creations are truly admirable. Les Fleurs stands as a testament to her passion and commitment, and the happiness it exudes is infectious to all who step through its doors.
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