In this very first Penny-pedia page -as we will call it, I’d like to share the story behind the name “Penny” and the deep inspiration it holds—a name rooted in the rich history of the 17th-century Penny Universities, where intellect and creativity flourished.
During the 17th century, Penny Universities were coffee houses that became hubs of knowledge, conversation, and innovation. For just a penny—the cost of a cup of coffee—people could join an environment where scholars, merchants, and thinkers like Galileo and other great minds of the time gathered to share ideas and discoveries. These informal hubs of learning were not just places of discussion but were instrumental in shaping the modern world.
Remarkably, it was within these Penny Universities that the seeds of the stock exchange were sown. Merchants and investors exchanged information and conducted business over coffee, laying the groundwork for the financial systems we know today. These vibrant, inclusive spaces championed curiosity, fostered innovation, and connected people across diverse backgrounds—a spirit that resonates profoundly with the values I envisioned for Penny Blooms & Beans. When I chose the name “Penny,” I wanted it to reflect this legacy of accessible inspiration, shared knowledge, and the joy of meaningful connections. Much like those historic spaces, Penny Blooms & Beans strives to create an environment where beauty, creativity, and thoughtful ideas can thrive, whether through our florals, events, or the warm glow of our candles.
Thank you for being part of this community and carrying forward the legacy of connection and inspiration that “Penny” embodies. Together, we continue to build a space where moments bloom into memories and ideas light up the world. We hope you enjoyed our first edition of Penny-pedia and you can expect us in you inbox the first Wednesday of each month from now on.
Warm regards,
Ayca Paksoy Sozen
Jan 2025
