Dragon Flowers owner 'never feels lonely' in her community

If you have visited Montreal's Mile End neighbourhood, chances are you've spotted Dragon Flowers. It's hard to miss; if the complex network of hanging bird cages doesn't give it away, the burst of colourful foliage spilling out onto the sidewalk will.

Tamey Lau has been running this shop on Bernard Street for over 35 years. As botha single mother and business owner, she has built a sanctuary for herself, her familyand her neighbourhood.

"In this kind of business, all your flowers are like your children. If you don't put in the love and energy, they won't be beautiful. In this kind of job, you can send people good energy," says Lau.

After immigrating from Hong Kong to Montreal, Tamey started her shop to support her family. Her children are now grown, but Tamey remains. She has cultivated a community around her and has no plans to retire any time soon.

"I don't want to close the business because every morning, all the kids come to say 'hi' to meand say 'I love you,'" she says.

"Why I love to stay in this neighbourhood is because the kids give me a lot of good energy. When I walk on the roads, I don't feel lonely. I'm very thankful."

Nine years ago, Tamey almost lost her business after a devastating fire engulfed her shop. But the Mile End community rallied both ny helping clean up and raising money online, and Lau was able make a fresh start.

• Group raises over $10,000 for flower shop damaged in fire

Since expanding to the building next door (173 Bernard Street), Lauhas easier accessto her thousands of blooms. It's a larger space where people young and old venture in to enjoy her flowers.

Tamey's favourite? Ranunculus.

May is #AsianHeritageMonth and to celebrate, we've profiled Asian-Canadian businesses from across the country that are at the hearts of their communities. And for more Asian Heritage Month content, visit CBC Gem for a new collection of series, documentaries and films that honour the rich culture and talent of Asian-Canadians and follow the hashtag #ProudlyAsianCanadian on social media for more inspiring profiles.You can see profiles of other Montrealers here.