Dustie Akins and Ashton Bice have spent the better part of a decade together -- crafting, styling and beautifying anything they could get their hands on. Now, the two ladies are taking on a new project.
Akins and Bice officially became business partners on May 8 when they took over operations at Anderson Floral and Gifts.
Akins and Bice met when Akins and her family moved to Anderson six years ago. Both have children and were active coaching softball. It wasn't long before the families lived, worked, and played together.
"We live right across the road from each other," Bice said, laughing. "And we work together, driving buses first and now running the shop too."
Akins said the two had been dreaming of a flower shop for a while, so when Anderson Floral came on the market, they jumped at the chance to take over.
The flower shop, located at 102 N. Walnut St., has served the area for more than 40 years and currently holds claim as the only operating florist in the county. In addition to the trademark fresh arrangements, Anderson Floral offers sports-themed bundles, fruit baskets, candy bouquets, wreaths, diaper cakes, corsages and tuxedo rentals. If you have an idea, Akins and Bice will help make it a reality.
"Anything you want to bring to us, we'll make it cute," said Bice. "We love creating personalized pieces."
The two recently had a customer request a custom funeral arrangement for a late outdoorsman. Given a bit of artistic freedom, the shop delivered a stunning, detailed piece highlighted by a small, carved wood canoe that appeared to flow through the middle of the flowers.
"It's more meaningful if you can make it for them," Bice noted.
Because floral design is a hands-on learning experience, Akins and Bice have spent hours practicing the art. Before they purchased the shop, they would assist former owner, Crystal Sherman, filling boutonniere orders during prom season. Now they oversee each order with the aid of long-time florist, Donna Hart. Hart previously owned a flower shop in Noel before she began arranging at Anderson Floral five years ago.
"My work is a total creative outlet, it's good for my soul," Hart said. "I'm surrounded by really beautiful things that smell good all day."
Akins and Bice agreed, adding that they both enjoy coming to work.
"I like getting to know the community," said Bice. "And I like who I work with."
In addition to all that is floral, the shop offers a variety of gifts to suit even those that are difficult to buy for. Among the candles and fine china are flavorful appetizer mixes, themed gift baskets, and, in the corner, a booth for the Farmer's Daughter.
Farmer's Daughter is a small business owned by Tracy Owen and operated out of Anderson Floral. The booth offers a variety of stylish t-shirts, tank tops and hats with consistently new inventory.
Anderson Floral also offers standing orders and local graveside holiday decoration for long-distance customers. Bice said, on Memorial Day, the shop delivers arrangements to local graves and will send a photo of the placed display to the family.
Akins and Bice have continued updates in mind for the building and hope to continue growing.
"We're always looking for local crafters who would be interested in displaying their smaller items. We couldn't accommodate furniture, but we would love to bring in more vendors with handmade gift items," said Bice.
Those interested in displaying their work at Anderson Floral can contact Akins or Bice via Facebook message to Anderson Floral & Gift.
Community on 07/19/2018