Late summer 2025 is when Still City Flowers went from a seed of a dream and took root in the VanRheen family backyard.
We'll see where this adventure leads, and what other questions may come up, but for now here is a little bit more about me.
Why Bouquets instead of Budgets?
I really, really loved the work I was doing in the nonprofit world, specifically helping Veterans experiencing houselessness find community and stability, BUT after many years of this type of work, I realized that in this one wild and precious life there was another season waiting for me.
I also really, really wanted to get a second dog and this change of pace allowed for that!
What are your biggest fears?
Birds.
Talking on the phone.
My Goal for 2026 Befriending the giant crows that hang out near my flower patch. That's it.
Please text if you want to get ahold of me, or at least don't be surprised if you have to leave a voicemail if you call. I'll get back to you, eventually, I promise. Can only tackle these things one at a time.
What is your Favorite Flower?
Picking a favorite flower is kind of like asking a parent to choose a favorite child- it just isn't possible.
BUT, I know that I get particularly nostalgic for my elementary school days when the first lilac blossoms appear because I remember bringing bouquets to my teachers. And my mom loving attempted to grow the exact shade of persimmon dahlias I wanted for our wedding back in '07, so I'll always be fond of those.
But, a perfect peony is what makes my heart come alive- they're fleeting and a little more fragile than I'd like, but they captivate me.
What Does "Still City" Mean?
still |
adjective
Calm; free from disturbance.
Remaining in place; not moving.
Continuing despite time or change; yet.
Quiet, gentle, or reflective in character.
city | Portland, OR Being an urban flower farmer, and serving my neighbors and community with my efforts, is important to me. Nurturing the beauty right here in the grittiness of it all is kind of the point.
