The District Chronicles

Issue date: 3/15/09 Section: Business

Media Credit: Robert Eubanks/ Staff Photographer

For 60 years, Lee's Flower and Card Shop has been cultivating four generations of family ownership and brought smiles to the faces of their customers.

Proprietor Richard Lee came into the family business in 1963, but did not take the reigns until 1990, when his father, William, passed it down to him. "I started from the ground floor-- from floor sweeper, to delivery and, then to presidency. It was a smooth transition," Lee said.

He continues the legacy, as his children and grandchildren work or have worked for him in his flower shop, "starting from the ground up" just as he did.

With his 37th year coming to an end, the beginning seems all too real, he reminisced about the first dollar posted on his wall. "Your first dollar gives you a feeling of ownership," he said. "This dollar I made, this is going to my future."

As an African American entrepreneur Lee enjoys total control--from the beginning to the end of every transaction.

"I love the fact that you can control your own destiny, make your own decisions and you get credit for it," he said. "Every decision you make you profit from, it's to your advantage."

However, like any other entrepreneur, Lee has experienced moments of disappointment. "It's confiding, and puts a lot of pressure on you, especially during the holidays, we can't take off when everyone else is. It's stressful," he said.

The community keeps him going when times get rough. And Lee continues to contribute to the community as the president of the Lincoln Theatre and through community service. "Not only do we provide a good service, and put smiles on people's faces."

Lee is not afraid to share his secrets to success. He talks regularly to high school and college students. "Starting it is easy, maintaining it is the hardest part," Lee said. "If you can get through the first three years you can make it.

You have to hustle, reinvest in the business and stay on top of the market. You have to keep up with the terms and new technology."

He has some advice for future entrepreneurs. "You need some talent, you got to have designing talents, and know how to make and keep a dollar," he said. "Thoroughly research and go to school get an education."

Lee promises to continue to go beyond customer service, and offer personable service. To this day, Lee's Flower and Card Shop stands as the oldest flower shop in D.C.

Address: 1026 U Street NW Washington, DC
Phone: (202) 265-4965

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