“From humble roots to a world in full bloom”

The rooftop of Hilton Corferias in Bogota was filled with roses, stories, and plenty of smiles as Alexandra Farms celebrated its 20th anniversary with a festive breakfast on Thursday morning. Friends from across the industry—buyers, breeders, wholesalers, and longtime partners—came together to toast two decades of growing exceptional garden roses.

Jose R. Azout of Alexandra Farms looked back on the journey with heartfelt words: “Thank you for all the support over these 20 years. You trusted us, supported us, and believed in a product that was anything but cheap. You entrusted us with your varieties and allowed us to share them with the world. The heart of Alexandra Farms is our people. The true achievement is that our workers can live the lives they choose—where they want, with whom they want. Brides all over the world have said ‘I do’ surrounded by our roses, and that joy is what keeps us going. Here’s to the next 20 years and beyond!”

Longtime partners then shared their own memories and tributes. Mike Mitchell of Delaware Valley Floral Group summed it up: “Alexandra is 100% Jose R. Azout. Thank you for your passion, leadership, and integrity—we are better because of you.”

Others echoed the sentiment. Vicky Martinez of Choice Farms reminded everyone just how bold the early days were: “Back then, garden roses were everything the industry didn’t want in a rose. Look at them now.” Mario Vicente of Fresca Farms added: “Someone once thought, ‘we’re going to plant roses in a garden,’ and now here we are—lucky to be together, in peace, enjoying this industry.”

Pieter Filius of Parfum Flower Company said: “It doesn’t feel like work to be surrounded by these roses and to work with Alexandra Farms.” And from David Austin: “It’s been a great journey. We share a passion for garden roses that has carried us all this way. Alexandra Farms is now the biggest grower of David Austin roses, and working with Jose R. Azout has been an absolute joy.”

The Alexandra Farms sales team also stepped on stage, visibly moved: “Twenty years of exceptional dedication deserves to be celebrated. We’re beyond grateful to be part of this journey. Your trust and belief in us has changed our lives.”

The celebration ended on a fitting note:
“From humble roots to a world in full bloom.”

What started as Jose R. Azout’s “crazy vision” to grow the world’s most beautiful garden roses has blossomed into a success story for Alexandra Farms and its partners.