Florist In Almancil

This week, we turn our Spotlight to the Alegrete Flower Shop in Almancil. Originally from Lisbon, Adélia discovered her passion for flowers three decades ago when she joined the shop, which initially opened its doors in 1996. She carried on the shop’s legacy after taking over from its previous owner, who had retired.

Adélia stands out with her professional training, even authoring two floral technique books. She traveled abroad to Spain for her floral education, with teachers from Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Mexico, building her skills. Beyond arranging, she educates aspiring florists with hands-on classes.

Adélia's explains that in sunny countries like Portugal, demand for flowers isn't as high as in colder regions, where people spend more time indoors. However, she passionately believes that flowers are essential in life, a universal language that can express sentiments like apologies, gratitude, condolences, and congratulations. They are an inexpensive and versatile gift, a means to communicate emotions in a multidimensional way.

Adélia voices concern about changing flower-buying habits among the younger generation. Most of her clients are in their 40s and 50s, and she fears that in the future, traditional flower shops like hers may struggle to survive. She hopes the artistry of floristry will be supported and kept alive in future generations.

Adélia uses mirrors in the shop to see all sides of the bouquet as she works, ensuring perfection in every arrangement. Adélia only sells flowers that last more than 5 days, emphasizing the need for care, especially during hot summers. And she leaves us with some valuable tips: in the summer, ask for flowers in water, stored in a plastic-lined box. Never leave flowers in a hot car; they thrive in a cool place. Just as you keep salad and veg in the fridge, flowers need similar care and attention also.

You can follow Adélia on Instagram @alegreteflorista