Country Garden Florist
Flowers, gifts available at downtown shop
Country Garden Florist, located at 208 S. Main St., has been a mainstay in downtown Malvern for decades. The shop was opened in October of 1977 and the current owner Christie Chandler has owned the shop since January 1995.
Chandler, the third owner of the business, started worked there after receiving a call from the former owner who was her aunt.
“She called one day and she needed someone to help deliver and we went from there,” Chandler said.
When her aunt decided to retire, Chandler took over the business. At the time, Chandler had been working at the business for three years.
Since Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, Chandler said this is usually a busy time for her business, but because the holiday falls on a Sunday and area schools are not allowing deliveries, Chandler expects there will be a drop in sales.
She noted that her staff is ready to serve and have lots of options for individuals wanting a special gift for their loved ones.
Along with fresh flowers, Chandler said at the shop she offers a variety of items including green plants, artificial flowers, stuffed animals and balloons.
Gift items are also available. One of the newest items for sale are Milkhouse Candles. Customers can also find yard flags, Rada Knives, Sassafras door mats and various other gift items.
Chandler also carries Ozark Nuts and Chocolates and Wicked Mix which are both Arkansas made product, as well as, Sweet Shop Chocolates.
Chandler explained that employees at the business always offer friendly and personal service.
According to the business’ website, several changes have been put into place because of COVID- 19.
“At Country Garden Florist, we want to assure you that we are taking every precaution possible to ensure the health and safety of our clients, employees, and partners,” according to the website.
Some of these changes include daily disinfecting of all facilities, disinfecting delivery vehicles and elimination of the “hand delivies” requirement.
Country Garden Florist participates each year in the annual Teleflora Make Someone Smile Week. Chandler said she is also active in the Malvern Downtown Development Corporation.
Chandler was born and raised in the Glen Rose area.
Country Garden Florist can be reached by phone at ( 501) 337- 0106, or through their website www.countrygardenfloristar.com.
They also have a Facebook page.
Country Garden Florist is open from 8 a. m. to 5 p. m., Monday through Friday and from 8: 30 a. m. to noon on Saturdays.
She mentioned that staff plan to work late this Saturday to help those looking for last minutes gift ideas.