120 New Flower Friends: An Afternoon Tea with Heart
Written by Magical Blooms
Last weekend, I had the honor of speaking in front of 120 people at an afternoon tea event supporting Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. I came to share my story and my love of flowers, and I left feeling grateful for every person who helped make the day meaningful.
Speaking events have become one of my favorite things to do, especially when they bring people together for a cause that matters. This afternoon combined so much of what I love: tea, conversation, flowers, and a community showing up for children and their families.
A Beautiful Afternoon with a Bigger Purpose
I love an afternoon tea party. We host them at my flower shop, Magical Blooms, and I love how sitting down together gives people permission to slow down, connect, and enjoy each other’s company.
But this tea held an especially meaningful purpose. We were gathering to support children who need medical care and the families walking beside them.
As a single mother, I am deeply grateful for my son Jack’s health. I also think about parents facing uncertainty about their own children. When I see a child, my heart responds as a mother. Being part of an event supporting those families was an honor.
Sharing My Story and the Meaning of Flowers
Standing in front of 120 guests, I shared why I do what I do as The Flower Doctor. My work begins with flowers, but it is also about listening, intention, and the ways we express care.
Flowers have been part of my life since childhood. They invite me to pause, notice beauty, and feel connected to the world around me. Through my book, Flower Energy: Channeling the Healing Power of Blooms, I share that personal relationship with flowers and invite others to discover their own.
Sometimes flowers celebrate a joyful moment. Sometimes they help us say “I’m thinking of you” when we cannot find the words. That ability to express love is at the heart of my work.
A Line of Books—and Personal Connections
After I spoke, there was a line of people waiting to have their books signed and spend a little time with me. I signed copies of Flower Energy and offered personal flower readings, sharing the meanings and intentions I associate with blooms.
Those one-on-one moments are such a meaningful part of speaking. A room of 120 people becomes individual conversations, each with an opportunity to listen and connect.
I left with 120 new flower friends and so much gratitude. Thank you to everyone who picked up a book, waited to meet me, shared a conversation, and supported the purpose of the afternoon.
Why Giving Back Matters
Community has helped shape my life as a mother, a business owner, and an author. Giving back is one way I can show my gratitude and contribute something of my own.
We each have something to offer. It might be our time, our voice, our creativity, a donation, or simply our willingness to show up. Bringing those gifts together can help a cause reach more people and remind families that they have a community beside them.
For me, sharing my story is most meaningful when it also helps shine a light on the work of others. I am grateful that flowers and Flower Energy gave me a way to take part in this afternoon.
Thank you to the organizers, volunteers, and every guest who made this tea possible. Thank you to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and the people caring for children and supporting their families.
If this cause touches your heart, please consider supporting Children’s Hospital Los Angeles through a donation or an opportunity to get involved. Visit CHLA.org to learn more.
With love and gratitude,
Jenny Barker
The Flower Doctor | Magical Blooms
Author of Flower Energy: Channeling the Healing Power of Blooms
