By: Tracy Sanders, Publisher
tracy@thewoodrufftimes.com
WOODRUFF — A new floral and plant shop is blooming in downtown Woodruff, bringing fresh flowers, plants, and a personal touch to the community.
Julie Sorenson Davis, owner of Peonies and Plants on Main, recently opened the business after deciding it was time for a new chapter in life.
“I’ll be 50 in December and just kind of burned out in the corporate world,” Davis said. “I really wanted to do something different.”
Deep Community and Family Roots
The shop’s roots run deep in both family and community connections.
Davis and her husband, Bryan Davis of Davis Auto Sales, have strong ties to the Woodruff area. Two of their children have attended Woodruff schools, and her husband and mother-in-law are both Woodruff graduates.
Davis said the inspiration behind the shop also came from family memories and a lifelong love of flowers.
“My family has always loved plants, and my grandmother, who the store is named after, was called Onie,” Davis said. “Her best friend owned a florist shop in Clinton, and I kind of grew up around flowers.”
Flowers, Plants, and Creative Experiences
While floral design has long been a hobby, Davis said she is now excited to turn that passion into a full-time business.
She plans to feature two new plants each month so customers can “learn and grow together” as the plant side of the business expands.
In addition to floral arrangements and plants, the business also offers floral design classes and a “Bloom Bar” experience for baby showers, wedding showers, and other special events.
Davis said customer service is one of her biggest priorities.
“If you call my phone, I’m going to answer,” she said. “For some reason, if I can’t answer, if you leave a message, I’ll call you back as quickly as possible. I feel like customer service is lacking in today’s world.”
Customers can order flowers by phone, through the shop’s website, or by stopping into the store.
Complimentary delivery is available within Woodruff city limits; deliveries outside Woodruff incur a $15 fee.
Grand Opening Planned for May 28
Davis said opening the shop has gone smoother than expected.
“I feel like it was just time and meant to be,” she said.
She hopes customers feel relaxed and welcome when they visit the shop.
“I want it to be a smooth, relaxing process — laid back atmosphere, happy customers,” Davis said.
Davis also encouraged other women and mothers considering starting a business to take the leap.
“Step out in faith and give it all you’ve got,” she said. “Nine times out of ten, it works out if you give it your best shot.”
Peonies and Plants on Main will hold its grand opening on Thursday, May 28, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m.
The event will include refreshments, giveaways, and an opportunity for the community to meet the family behind the business.
“I look forward to serving the community and making long-lasting relationships,” Davis said.
