A Day in the (me and you) Flower Shop

By Mina Majidi
Herat-Afghanistan 

This photo essay takes you on a visual journey through a day in the life of Agha Sahib’s shop, capturing the beauty, passion, and dedication that goes into creating and sharing the joy of flowers with the community. In the enchanting city of Herat, Afghanistan, there are a few small flower shops, but one stands out as a larger and more diverse option. Located in the heart of the city, it boasts a wide selection of flowers and plants and is surrounded by the Herat Province buildings, bustling restaurants, and a large sports stadium. The shop, owned by Agha Sahib, was originally rented from the extra space of a restaurant and has since become renowned for its exquisite flower arrangements. 

Agha Sahib has a deep love for flowers and takes great pride in sourcing the freshest and most vibrant blooms from local growers in the surrounding countryside and Iran. The shop is a riot of color and fragrance, with roses, tulips, and daisies adorning every corner.

The day begins with Agha Sahib carefully caring for his blossoming treasures. Soft morning light streams through the windows, Agha Sahib is hard at work right now, carefully checking the soil for fresh blooms and always using the best soil.

The open and beautiful space of this flower shop has become a gathering place where people come not only to buy flowers but also to seek peace, celebrate love, and find beauty in the midst of life’s challenges.

In his shop, beautiful decorative stones in different colors are always available, which with them make the vases more luxurious.

Every customer who visits the shop is warmly welcomed and receives dedicated assistance in choosing the most beautiful flowers and plants for their special occasions or home decor. The staff at the shop also share stories about the symbolism and significance of each flower with their customers.

As the day unfolds, customers begin to trickle into the shop, drawn by the enchanting fragrance and kaleidoscope of colors. Agha Sahib greets each visitor with a warm smile, eager to share his passion for flowers and help them find the perfect arrangement for their special occasion.

Despite the political turmoil and uncertainty that often-plagued Herat, Agha Sahib’s flower shop remained a beacon of hope and happiness in the community. His dedication to his craft and unwavering commitment to his customers made him a beloved figure in the city.

Today, shops like Agha Sahib’s stand as symbols of resilience and beauty in Herat. Their colorful displays continue to brighten the lives of locals and visitors alike, reminding everyone that beauty and kindness can flourish even in the harshest of circumstances.