New Business: Floral Moments by Juju Buds

opened for business at 48 Chelmsford Street in September. Although the shop is new, the owner, Judy Burke, has extensive knowledge and experience as a florist.

Burke said she worked for 22 years in a variety of occupations in the industry, holding jobs in design, wholesale, and retail. She began as an employee of Twigs and Sprigs, a Concord, MA florist, designing floral arrangements for corporate events and weddings. Throughout the years Burke also taught floral design and recently worked in floral retail in the area.

Burke describes Floral Moments by Juju Buds as “upscale and innovative.” The shop hand-picks all of their flowers at the Boston Flower Exchange and offers a variety of flower and customized arrangements. Juju Buds also buys flowers from local vendors in surrounding towns such as Westford and Tewksbury.

“We have a unique selection of native flowers; we have imported flowers—they come in from South America, they come in from Holland, they come in from all over the world,” said Burke.

Apart from the classic florist wares of roses and lilies, the shop also acts a bit like an all-around gift shop, offering many gift ideas and decorative items.

“We offer more than just flowers,” said Burke. In shop, a customer can find  potted plants, jewelry, body butter, and hand lotions to “compliment” the flower purchase, according to Burke. Floral Moments by Juju Buds also sell soaps, stuffed animals, soy candles, gift bags, and a variety of earth-friendly products, like trendy reusable tote bags.

For amenities, shoppers can have silk arrangements and paintings customized to work with the décor of their homes and have their orders delivered to towns in the surrounding area.

“We’re more than just your average florist shop,” said Burke.

For Burke, flowers are more than a pretty centerpiece or a pleasant aroma. She believes they make great gifts for that special someone.

“I think it’s a great way to express (...) your appreciation for the one you love,” she said. “It’s a beautiful thing. I think in this economy and this time, people really need something to bring them up.”

Burke believes that flowers help lift the moods of those that might be feeling the gloom and darkness of a New England winter.

“This time of year especially, people suffer from (...) Seasonal Affective Disorder. A lot of people are affected by that. Flowers will not only brighten the room, but they cleanse the air, they exchange carbon dioxide for oxygen—they really promote health and wellbeing,” she said. “There’s a lot of value in flowers.”

Burke said that customers really need to visit in person in order to fully appreciate the shop.

“Why our shop? Because we are different, unique,” said Burke. “It’s a beautiful environment.”

For those who can’t make it out, however, arrangements and flowers can be ordered on Burke’s private website or on Burke’s website affiliated with Teleflora. Affiliation with Teleflora and FTD allows Burke to wire flowers anywhere in the world. Fans can also "like" Juju Bud's page on Facebook.

When asked if Juju Buds would be offering any Valentine’s Day specials, Burke joked: “Everything we do is special.”

“Flowers bring peace and joy and comfort and beauty to the world,” said Burke. “They make people happy.”

Address: 48 Chelmsford Street, Chelmsford

Phone 978-256-2444

Are you a local business owner? Find out how to on Patch. If you would like to be featured in our Business Owner of the Week column, e-mail krista@patch.com.