Our History

In 1969, the owners of a small Colombian flower farm traveled to the United States with a shared vision for the future of floral sourcing. Their search led them to Miami, where early conversations with industry partners helped shape a new approach rooted in quality, collaboration, and long-term relationships.

Those early efforts laid the groundwork for what would become Gardens America, built on trust, care, and a belief that thoughtful sourcing and strong partnerships could raise the standard across the floral industry.

At the time, Peggy Gillice worked as a bookkeeper at Pennock and quickly recognized the potential of what was unfolding. She arranged an introduction between the growers and her husband, John Gillice, bringing together shared values, complementary strengths, and a clear vision for what the floral industry could become.

With the right people aligned at the right moment, the partnership took shape. Together, they helped establish a new path in fresh flower importing, grounded in collaboration, trust, and a commitment to doing things differently from the very beginning.

From the beginning, both companies shared a clear goal to serve clients with exceptional quality while operating efficiently and intentionally. In May of 1969, the first shipment arrived in Miami consisting of just ten boxes, marking a focused and deliberate start.

Products were brought in only when they were already committed to customers. This approach ensured flowers moved directly from the farm to their destination without excess handling or storage. By sourcing with purpose and planning ahead, the foundation was set for a model centered on freshness, consistency, and respect for both the product and the client.