Observed here in the United States on the third Sunday in June, this year we celebrate our Dads on June 19th. Although considered a “second Christmas for fathers” in the retail industry, the holiday is not just a consumer creation – the day is recognized in various ways in over 142 countries across the globe.

Just a few months after the first Mother’s Day in 1908, Grace Clayton began campaigning for a similar honor for fathers in West Virginia. In 1912, Methodist pastor J. Berringer suggested a celebration in his hometown of Vancouver, Washington claiming to be the first to observe such a day. Even so, in 1915, Harry Meek, a member of the International Lion’s Club, claimed that Fathers Day was his original idea, and to this day, the Lion’s Club calls him the “Originator of Father’s Day.” Still it wasn’t until 1966, and a proclamation by President Lyndon Johnson, when Father’s Day became official – after over 50 years of debate in Washington.

Lucky Bamboo

Regardless of who decided to honor dad, we wholeheartedly agree with the sentiment. Dads are awesome! This year, how about foregoing the neckties and buying a gift he will enjoy for a long time? Green plants, flowering plants and succulents all make attractive and sophisticated additions to an office space. You can even choose one with special meaning – bamboo, for instance, represents good fortune and prosperity in Chinese culture, and would make a meaningful gift for a hard-working dad.

Dads, stepdads, mentors or friends – on Father’s Day, they deserve recognition for their love and support. Ah Sam Flowers has the elegant, trendy, sophisticated, dramatic and useful gifts to match any dad’s personality – what will you find? Stop by our San Mateo shop to explore the options!