"French Flowers" Closing Doors after 57 Years of Service Jennifer Taylor Courtesy Photo In the summer of 1950, Hester French decided that Gordon needed a flower shop. Up until that summer, sending away for flowers was costly, timely and risky. She saw a need and decided to meet it and opened French Flower and Gift Shop in August of 1950. The Grand Opening took place on Thursday August 31st and 609 people signed the guest registry. Working with Mrs. French at the time was Mrs. Mattie Dwyer and Ms. Lois Haush. In 1963, Mrs. French sold the business to Bill Wiles. The shop remained in the original location at 119 Main Street (present day The Hair Smith)until 1971, when Bill and Iona Wiles moved the shop to 206 Main. Terrie Wiles, Bill and Iona's daughter, took over the shop in 1978 and continued to operate the store until 1984. During this time, Terrie was assisted by Judy Peddicord and Janell Youel. In February of 1985, Terrie sold the business to Janet Lissolo, Carla Cranston and Judy Peddicord. Eventually, Carla Cranston bought the business and remained sole owner until she sold it to Judy Peddicord in 2001. In 2004, Judy sold the business to present day owner Jennifer Taylor and Jennifer has owned and operated the flower shop since July of 2004. This was the original ad announcing the opening of the store in August of 1950... Jennifer Taylor has worked in the floral business for 15 years. She loves the opportunity to brighten, surprise and encourage people during times of difficulty and times of celebration. She is especially appreciative to all of those who have gone before and have given her the opportunity to learn this wonderful craft. She is mindful of those who have worked alongside her and helped her make the business a success. In particular, Jennifer admits that she is going to miss the opportunities that the floral business affords her to reach out to so many in the panhandle. She has also felt blessed to possess a creative talent that has touched so many. At present, Jennifer plans to enjoy quality time with her family and her long term plans are to go back to school and pursue her degree. She wants to thank the people of the panhandle for their patronage over the many years that French Flowers and Gifts has been in existence. Jennifer comments, "I'm going to miss the close relationship I share with so many of my customers. It has been an honor and a privilege to have been a service to the people of Gordon and surrounding communities."