Greater Bay Shore coverage is funded in part by Shoregate, now leasing brand-new premium apartment homes in the heart of Bay Shore. Click here to schedule a tour.
Looking to share their passion for plants and home decor with Long Islanders, this husband-and-wife team has just opened an Islip plant shop called GrowinShade.
The shop opened last month at 566 Main Street, just east of the Chase bank branch.
But the seeds were planted long before that.
Before opening up their own storefront, the Central Islip couple sold plants and plant accessories in local markets across Nassau and Suffolk counties.
“Last summer, my husband helped me create a plant cart that I can roll out to the local markets to showcase my plant accessories, like my plant trellis,” said GrowinShade co-owner Kandice Rodgers.
“These help the plants grow upwards,” she explained. “But most of the indoor trellises that are sold in stores are not the best looking, so we designed one that doubles as a trellis and room decor.”
Then came more ideas, then their own shop.
She and her husband, Aaron Holmes, have extensive knowledge of plants that grow in the shade. Their new space is stocked with a wide variety of plants, as well as everything anyone could need to keep those plants alive and healthy.
They’re also looking to utilize the space for plant-based special events. They recently hosted their first of many Paint and Pot nights, where people paint plant pots with friends while enjoying snacks and music.
“I was so amazed at how many people came out to support our first event,” Kandice said. “Everyone enjoyed themselves and I can’t wait for the next one.”
While you’re shopping and getting an education, you can also check out another section of the shop where you won’t find plants. You will find locally made gifts such as soy candles, earrings, and organic skincare products, among other items.
It’s “a special corner in our shop that is dedicated to women who own small businesses,” Kandice said.
GrowinShade has other events planned for the upcoming months. Check out this section of the company’s website for the schedule, and to sign up. Scroll down to see more photos by Starr Fuentes.
Top: GrowinShade co-owner Kandice Rodgers outside her new shop in Islip. (Starr Fuentes)
