Brian Davino, owner of Davino Florist in downtown Los Altos, is preparing to shutter his Main Street shop Sept. 19 after 29 years in business. Los Altos-based florist Brian Davino is closing his downtown shop and retiring after 29 years in the business, a decision propelled by the COVID-19 pandemic and its impacts on the retail industry.

Davino said he feels fortunate that his shop – Davino Florist at 149 Main St. – has survived as long as it has when many other businesses have shut down due to the coronavirus outbreak. Although he had planned to retire next July, Davino said he will shutter the shop Sept. 19.

“I think retail is a whole different ball game now that we live with COVID, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon,” he said. “So rather than wrap up an almost 30-year career struggling, I decided to check out early and not go through the stress.”

Before Davino was a florist, he worked at a furniture company, where he said he enjoyed putting together flower arrangements on his breaks to display on the sales floor, leading to his initial interest in flowers. Don’t ask him what his favorite flower is, however – he said there are too many to choose from.

Davino Florist began in 1983 in a relative’s garage. Two years later, Davino opened up his first shop in his hometown, Burlingame.

At first, Davino said he faced the challenge of having little experience running or owning a business.

Nonetheless, six years later, he expanded to Los Altos and ran two shops. Davino closed the Burlingame location six or seven years later and settled in Los Altos because he said two stores became too much to handle.

Davino has supported several organizations during his time in Los Altos. Anytime someone asked him to support a nonprofit group, he said he would try to do so.

Davino said he is going to miss the community and the customers who became friends.

“I just would like the community to know how valuable this experience has been and how much I appreciate the loyal support so many people have shown me over the years,” he said. “It’s incredible how some people step up to the plate when it’s necessary, and (I’ve) had multiple experiences with people just amazing me with their kindness and generosity. I want to thank the community. I think it’s been a great run, and I’m looking forward to relaxing.”

Davino added that he plans to spend plenty of time in a lounge chair. He also expects to get more sleep and said he won’t miss waking up at 3 a.m. to buy flowers for the shop.

For more information on Davino Florist, call 949-8520 or visit davinoflorist.com.

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