Support beauty.

One of the loveliest little discoveries we’ve made recently is the Backyard Blooms flower stand on Ocean Avenue in Portland. Both Lila and I are big flower lovers. We are drawn to different palettes and types, of course, but our affection for them is deep. Lila loves the history of horticulture, and I am drawn to color. You are likely to spot us at Trader Joe’s first thing on Saturday morning, sussing out the options and putting together seasonal bouquets for anywhere and everywhere.

I started following Backyard Blooms on Instagram because the vibrancy of their flowers knocked me off my feet. True, show stopping beauty was on display in every post. Blooms so abundant, with hues lively and brilliant, they beckoned me again and again. When I realized these gorgeous beauties were actually sold at a flower stand in Portland, I shared the news with Lila. It was late August.

“Want to take a drive?” I asked.

“Sure,” she replied. “Where are we going?”

“To see about some flowers.”

The first time we ventured a drive-by, the flower stand was empty. Deflated, yet undeterred, we waited a few days and tried again. This time, it was like a trip to bountiful. Dahlias so robust and vivid, how could one begin to choose?

Yet choose we did, walking on air all the way to our car, over the moon with our purchases and the joy they would bring. We enjoyed a few more trips to the flower stand before it closed for the season, and each visit was a revelation. These farmers, who produce such beauty, capturing the essence of each season here in Maine so perfectly, are a gem to be treasured, supported and revered.

Support local. Support talent. Support beauty. Wherever you can find it.