Linda's Floral Designs wins best decorated window front contest (14 photos)

After almost a decade of lighting up special moments in Bradford, Linda’s Floral Designs lights up their Christmas spirit to win the 2019 downtown storefront window decorating contest.

“Like a rose between two thorns”, Chairperson of the BWG Downtown Revitalization Committee, Coun. Gary Baynes joked as he alongside BWG Mayor Rob Keffer presented Linda Donaher, Owner of Linda’s Floral Designs with a congratulatory plaque in recognition of her efforts to draw attention to Bradford’s historic downtown core during the holiday season. 

“We have a Downtown Revitalization Committee that focuses on the idea of bringing people downtown and supporting local business,” said Coun. Baynes. 

“Although the notice was a little bit short this year, we got the word out and had five businesses participate. Linda’s Floral Designs won by the unanimous decision of our judging panel.”

Last Saturday was the Santa Claus Parade and the start of the festive season in Bradford.

“It’s an opportunity for residents to come downtown and see what the stores have to offer,” said Mayor Keffer. 

“They put a lot of work into dressing up their stores and their window fronts,” Mayor Keffer continued. “There are some hidden gems in downtown Bradford, and we want residents to come check them out.”

Part of the reason behind the storefront decorations contest was to get the stores some publicity and get people to come downtown to take a look for themselves.

“Revitalization is the key word,” explains Coun. Baynes. “Downtown Bradford used to be the hub, but it’s drifted away from that. We want to revitalize the area and bring the focus back to the historical downtown core.”

The history of downtown Bradford runs deep at Linda’s Floral Designs.

Located at 12 Holland St. West, the building was officially listed on the Municipal Heritage Register in 2015.

The store was constructed in the late 1800’s to serve as Sutherland’s Grocery & Bake Shop. 

In 1944, William Compton bought Sutherland’s Grocery and opened Compton’s Groceteria, later becoming the IGA as a charter member of the, then new, company.

After Compton relocated his IGA in the 60’s, 12 Holland St. West saw its share of businesses; from a butcher shop to clothiers and more.

In the early 90’s, flowers came to the storefront with Karen & Tina’s Flowers and then with the Holland Bloom Florist Shop.

In 2010, Donaher took over the location and Linda’s Floral Designs found a home in downtown Bradford. 

Currently, customers can come to “Bradford West Gwillimbury's Local Florist for premium floral arrangements and gift baskets to help strengthen relationships, give love and support, and celebrate life’s special moments. From birthdays to anniversaries to commemorate a loved one, and every little “just because” moment in between,” says Donaher.

Bradford residents can send their best wishes, condolences or holiday cheer to loved ones anywhere in the world through Linda’s Teleflora service.

“We’re more than just flowers,” says Donaher. “We sell flowers, plants gift ware and holiday decorations. We offer free local delivery and can ship anywhere in the world.”

Linda’s stunning arrangements will allow nature’s beauty to inspire your special moment.

“We are a local florist dedicated to your satisfaction,” continued Donaher. “You can always expect your needs to be treated with all the attention to detail they deserve.”

To place an order with Linda’s Floral Design, stop by the store in downtown Bradford, give them a call at 905-778-1040 or check out their website here.