Celebrating 40 Years of Floral Excellence: Wilmington City Council Honors Yukie Yamamoto & Flowers by Yukie

By Yesenia Taveras, Khari Gatson, and Eva Previti

During our February 6, 2025, Regular Meeting, the Wilmington City Council had the honor of recognizing Flowers by Yukieand its owner, Yukie Yamamoto, for 40 years of outstanding service to our community.

Flowers by Yukie Owner Yuki Yamamoto listens to 3rd District City Councilwoman Zanthia Oliver’s remarks during the Regular City Council Meeting on Thursday, Feb. 06, 2025, in the Council Chambers in Wilmington, DE. Photo By Yesenia Taveras.

Since 1983, Flowers by Yukiehas been a staple of Wilmington, providing endless beauty and joy through flower arrangements to countless residents and businesses.

Yukie’s passion for flowers began at just seven years old when she started studying ikebana – the Japanese art of flower arrangement, also known as kado,or “giving life to flowers.” At the age of 21, she married and emigrated from Japan to Delaware, bringing her deep-rooted expertise and creativity with her. After gaining experience working with other florists, she decided she would open her own shop.

Submitted photo: Yukie Yamamoto, Flowers by Yukie owner in Wilmington, DE, poses in her flower shop located at 916 N Union St, Wilmington, DE 19805.

Yukie’s floral creations are known for defying convention. With her eye for creating masterpieces, she has built a reputation for crafting breathtaking arrangements that leave a lasting impression, earning well-deserved recognition as being named “Best Upstate Floristas” by Delaware Today. Her creations have also been featured in the rooms of the Winterthur Museum, the walkways of Longwood Gardens, parties, birthdays, and countless holiday events.

The Council was pleased to recognize Yukie for over 40 years of dedicated service to the City of Wilmington and congratulate Yukie on her well-deserved retirement. Her story is a testament to passion, dedication, and the impact of small businesses in shaping our community and we wish her well in all and any future endeavors.

Flowers by Yukie Owner Yuki Yamamoto (center with certificate) stands in front of At-Large Councilman James Spadola (center behind Yuki) and with family members at the Regular City Council Meeting on Thursday, Feb. 06, 2025. Photo By Yesenia Taveras.