Growing Connection with Kara Jaggers

For Kara Jaggers, motherhood is her north star. As the SVP of Floral Merchandising at 1-800-Flowers.com, Kara’s professional world is defined by the art of the arrangement, yet, at home with her three children, Jett (13), Presley (11), and Lennox (8), she finds that the most beautiful moments aren't curated but grown in the everyday spaces of family life and being together.

“Motherhood is my life’s greatest blessing,” Kara says. “Every decision I make is centered around showing up as the best mom I can be and also setting an example for my children of what they can achieve through hard work and dedication.”

As one of our Amazing Moms, Kara invites us into her world, sharing the traditions that anchor her family and her expert advice on gifting with intention and purpose.

The Roots of Kindness

Kara’s parenting style is a tribute to her roots. In her Lebanese household, the idea that "it takes a village" isn't just a phrase you see on a pillow; it’s the way they treat the day-to-day.

“My mom has always shown me what it means to be a kind and selfless person,” Kara says. “She reminds me that it takes a village and always asks, ‘How can I help?’ My mom doesn’t view helping as an obligation, but as a privilege. That mindset has stayed with me.”

That spirit of togetherness really comes to life every May. Their Mother’s Day is all about leaning into Lebanese flavors and family traditions that make the day feel like theirs. Kara loves to mix in treats like Harry & David Signature Baklava, a small but sweet nod to her heritage. It’s a reminder that Mother’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate your own family’s story and honor where you come from.

The Art of the Intentional Gift

In a world of last-minute clicks, Kara is a proponent of the "slow gift." Her process usually begins shortly after Easter, especially for her mother-in-law who lives out of town, because she believes the best presents are rooted in intentionality. “Personalized gifts feel intentional,” Kara explains. “They show thought, effort, and truly celebrate the role of being a mom.”

For the mother who finds her zen in the kitchen, Kara suggests the Personalized Bamboo Cutting Board from Personalization Mall, engraved with a cherished family recipe. “It honors all the time and love your mom has put into caring for you,” she notes. Even a small addition, like a 1-800-Flowers.com personalized heart add-on, can transform a floral arrangement into a permanent keepsake.

Kara also views gifts as an invitation to slow down. She recalls a Mother’s Day when her husband, J, skipped the typical grand gestures in favor of something more unique—a rocking chair for their porch. The following year, he added a second chair so they could share that stillness together. “The best gifts aren’t just meaningful, they’re useful,” Kara says. She looks for pieces that become part of the family’s fabric, like a Personalized Black Camping Chair that works just as well on the sidelines of her children’s sports games as it does during an afternoon picnic.

A Floral Expert’s Guide to Gifting

For her own home, Kara looks for the Spring Sentiment Bouquet. “It’s fresh, seasonal, and intentionally spring,” she says. But her absolute favorite? The Tulip. “I love tulips because they arrive and continue to bloom and grow in your home. You get to be part of their journey, which makes them feel even more special.”

As someone who lives and breathes florals, Kara sees blooms as vessels for positivity. “I keep fresh flowers in my home as often as I can because they bring joy, light, and a sense of positivity to everyday life.” When gifting, she gravitates toward the elegance of Calla Lilies or the Mother’s Embrace arrangement, full of soft pink tones.

Legacy Beyond the Box

For Kara, nothing beats a handmade gift. “Truly, anything my kids make means the most,” she says. “I keep and display those pieces in my office; they’re constant reminders of what I love.” But when she wants to elevate the occasion, she turns to Harry & David. Their hand-packed gifts are intentional and wow-worthy upon arrival, turning an ordinary delivery into an unforgettable moment.