A Unique Twist in Floral Design
Originally Posted Mountain News
Although it originally started as Wildflowers in 1996, under the ownership of sisters Karen Citro and Sheryl Davis, the name, as well as the designs, have since evolved after owner Robin Lyles re-opened the shop with a slightly different name, Wildflowers at the Lake, in July 2016.
It was in 2001 when Robin and her husband John decided to purchase a small building located in Cedar Glen, not knowing what would come from it at first. “we bought it because it was a good investment, and something could be done with it in the future,” she shared.
It all came full-circle for Lyles in 2013 when she began talking to both Citro and Davis about using the space for a floral shop. They were both involved in providing the flowers for Lyles’s wedding, and they kept in contact afterward. Lyles said that she was very impressed with their talent.
The talk of the floral shop began in 2013, but there was a lot of work to be done to get the place to fit Lyles’s vision. The design of the shop changed throughout the process, but Lyles acknowledged that they are all very happy with the overall outcome.
According to Lyles, since the opening of Wildflowers at the Lake, the reaction has been “overwhelmingly fabulous.” The success of the shop has a lot to do with its being the only full-service flower studio on the mountain. Full-service, Lyles explained, means that they not only offer flowers, but they carry gifts, as well, that include a jewelry line, ‘UnoDe50,’ that is out of Spain, farmhouse antiques, Craft & Foster candles, European soaps, “O” olive oil and balsamic vinegar, books, The Naked Bee, and handcrafted cards. In addition to these gifts, the studio carries silk flowers, and the floral designers can create a permanent flower arrangement, as well.
Manager and Floral Designer Karen Citro said that Wildflowers at the Lake is always one step ahead. The designers are continually thinking of new ways to make arrangements and other floral pieces look different. Even though Citro previously owned the original Wildflowers with Davis, she mentioned that she is herself enjoying her new position much more.
“I decided I didn’t want to own a business,” Citro commented. “I think it takes away from my creativity because there is too much to think about.”
Now both Citro and Davis can focus solely on floral design and assure that their clients are happy with the end product. Referring to products, Citro disclosed that the studio has become known for weddings. “We are booking into 2019 right now,” she noted, adding that it is an area they are all very passionate about.
“We like to get the feel of what the bride and groom are looking for, and we are not ones to whip out a wedding...that’s too easy,” Citro expressed. “We like to carry unusual flowers like Sweet Pea, Vernaculus imported from Japan, and David Austin garden roses.” A few wedding themes that the team has organized are forest, tropical and bohemian.
Floral jewelry is a new style that Wildflowers at the Lake has begun to offer. These items come in the form of cuffs and rings and have flowers glued to them, which make for great accessory pieces for special events. Flower crowns can also be made. “Nobody else up here does that; we try to do everything with a twist.”
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Citro pointed out a few tips for an ‘out-of-the-box’ gift this year. First, flowers should be “almost to their prime” when gifted, but not in their full prime, in order for them to last longer. Second, incorporating colored roses with red and pink ones will give the arrangement a different feel. Last, use a spring mix with some roses.
“We encourage people to call us to see what will be available for Valentine’s Day,” Citro concluded.