Nestled between North Carolina’s Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains, Asheville is a vibrant city celebrated for its indie shops and lively cafes. Among the standout spots is Flora Botanical Living, a captivating fusion of a flower shop, artisan coffeehouse, and event space. This unique venue promises a serene atmosphere and should definitely be on your itinerary during your visit to the picturesque “Land of the Sky.”
Situated in the West Asheville neighborhood, Flora began as a small wedding and events business run from owner Melissa Thomas’s basement. “Opening Flora is my ultimate dream,” Thomas shares on her website. Her journey into floristry and other creative endeavors culminated in this inviting storefront, where she takes joy in sending customers away with beautiful botanicals to enhance their homes.
The sale of flowers is a core offering at Flora, attracting locals who drop by for seasonal bouquets (starting at $65) either wrapped in paper or artfully arranged in vases. Brides and event planners often secure Flora’s flower design services months in advance. However, the shop offers a lot more—classes, workshops, and Forage, the stylish coffee and tea bar nestled within the botanical boutique.
A cozy cafe inside a flower shop
One customer praised, “This is the best coffee I’ve had in Asheville,” in a Google review. Other fans of Forage concur, commending the café’s rich variety of coffee and tea drinks, including the popular lavender mint latte, alongside homemade baked goods such as gluten-free almond cookies.
The peaceful atmosphere is often highlighted by patrons, both in the sunlit café surrounded by greenery and the tranquil rear garden. Visitors recommend this spot for enjoying a coffee or tea, with one local noting, “The garden is filled with an incredible variety of plants and flowers, making it a true paradise for nature enthusiasts. This place is truly magical.”
Plan your visit to Flora Botanical Living
Flora offers an abundance of activities and experiences. Inside this distinctive space, which the owner describes as “a place with an abundance of talent and filled with creatives,” visitors can participate in classes and workshops. Upcoming opportunities include a crafting workshop ($155 per person) led by a local artisan and a watercolor class ($130 per person) with artist and food stylist Molly Reeder.
For those looking for a more immersive experience, the Flora Forest & Fields Airbnb offers stylish overnight accommodations in a renovated dairy barn, located on Flora’s flower farm in Candler, North Carolina—approximately a 15-minute drive from Asheville. Rates may vary, typically around $525 for a mid-week two-night stay. If you’re planning to explore further afield from Asheville, be sure to visit Black Mountain, a charming Blue Ridge mountain town known for its cozy cafes and vibrant festivals.
In Asheville, both Flora Botanical Living and Forage operate from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays, and from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, closing on Tuesdays. Discover more about Asheville’s top sit-down cafes as recommended by locals.
Key Takeaways
- Flora Botanical Living combines a flower shop, coffeehouse, and event space in Asheville.
- Seasonal bouquets and wedding floral services are among the main offerings.
- Forage cafe offers a selection of unique coffee and tea creations.
- Serene garden space adds to the cafe’s tranquil atmosphere.
- Classes and workshops encourage creativity and skill-building.
- Accommodations available at Flora’s flower farm provide a unique getaway experience.
FAQ
What are the operating hours for Flora and Forage?
They are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays, and from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, closed on Tuesdays.
Do they offer floral arrangements for weddings?
Yes, Flora’s floral design services for weddings are booked well in advance by brides and planners.
Are there any workshops available?
Yes, Flora offers various classes and workshops, including floral crafting and watercolor painting.
Where can I stay nearby?
The Flora Forest & Fields Airbnb offers stylish accommodations on the flower farm, just a short drive from Asheville.
