A local flower farm and studio is bringing fresh blooms to Gordonsville.
The studio on Faulconer Street is bursting with color from fresh ranunculus. WESTWIND FLOWERS PHOTO
Stacey Chapman and her husband, Tom, are in their sixth season as owners of Westwind Flowers. The flower farm, which leases private space at Montpelier, recently expanded into a studio on Faulconer Street in Gordonsville and offers bouquets and arrangements as well as florals for special events including weddings. After working in a nonprofit for more than a decade, Stacey created Westwind as something to bring joy and beauty into the world. She believes the flowers in one’s vase should be as fresh as the food on the table. Westwind focuses on sustainably grown and curated cut flowers, growing several varieties, the largest of which is their dahlia crop in the fall.
Chapman first sources locally, then regionally and finally American grown florals for all orders. More than 80% of flowers in the U.S. are imported, she said, something flower farms like Westwind are working to combat.
“Most of the flowers sold have been bred for dry packaging and extended shelf life,” she said. “These flowers no longer have the fragrance they may have once had and lack the uniqueness of local blooms.”
She points out that red roses can be obtained any time of the year which is great for those seeking the blooms out for Valentine’s Day, but at what cost, she says.
“Local flowers are grown with the seasons without the required pesticides that imported flowers are exposed to,” Chapman said. “Flowers like dahlias and zinnia don’t travel well and require a water transport to show up to the end customer in their best form. Local flowers have the fragrance they were always intended to have. There is no comparison between a locally grown rose and an import in this area. U.S. flower farmers want to be part of the greater floral industry knowing that producing and selling closer to home is better for the environment, offers local jobs and strengthens the local economy.”
Chapman sells direct to consumer as well as wholesale. Opening the space in Gordonsville allows the business to more easily reach customers, as well as provides space for workshops and small private events. The studio was recently the site of an OC Networking Meetup as well as a floral design fundamental workshop. Up next is a ticketed Mother’s Day workshop on May 10.
Westwind also offers season bouquet subscriptions and private u-pick events, plus a dahlia u-pick event in October. Gift items and plants are available at the studio.
“We believe that like a strawberry always tastes better when it is in season, flowers can be enjoyed in the same way,” Chapman said.
Westwind Flowers is located at 112 S. Faulconer Street in Gordonsville and is open Wednesday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, visit westwindflowers.com or facebook.com/westwindflowers.
