Asian-owned flower shop celebrates its 90th year

Ah Sam Floral, an Asian-owned flower shop in San Mateo, CA is celebrating its 90th year in business. The shop was founded by Gordon Leong, and his father, Sam Shun, in 1933. Now, Gordon’s daughter-in-law, Mayme Leong, is the matriarch of the business. She runs the shop with her four adult children.

Mayme Leong's son, Steve Leong, says that as an Asian family, they encountered resistance in the 1930s when they initially tried to buy a plot of land to open the business.

"The owner of the property chose not to sell to my grandfather but then what happened -- the farmer across the street was Italian. He said, 'No problem, I'll purchase the property for you and I'll transfer it over to you,'" Steve said to CBS News.

The Leongs were one of the first Asian families to settle in Belmont, a city that neighbors San Mateo, and because a neighbor complained to immigration, Mayme was forced to prove her citizenship.

"My mom said, 'Here's my driver's license,'" Steve explained. "They said 'that's not enough.' They said, 'Where were you born?’ My mom said she was born in Fresno. They said, ‘Where's your birth certificate?'"

Ah Sam Floral has thrived because of perseverance and innovative designs. The shop is also lucky to have the support of notable customers over many decades including Shirley Temple, Oprah, and Stephen Curry.

Congratulations on 90 years, Mayme and family!