Walking down busy Fell Street, it's easy to miss the tiny flower shop tucked away next to Bank of America. When it's closed, the shop almost disappears from view, but when it's open you'll be greeted by a cheerful array of brightly colored flowers set out on the sidewalk.
Owner Monica Lomas hails from New Mexico, but she traded in her teaching background for a career as a florist when she moved to San Francisco. A former resident of the neighborhood, she opened up the flower shop 6 and a half years ago, around the same time the building was being renovated.
Verde has a loyal local following, collaborating with local businesses like Wine Kitchen, Little Star, Bar Crudo and Vinyl to provide them with regular flower arrangements. Monica takes on big projects like weddings and funerals, but also has accounts open for individuals. If someone is ill, for example, an account can be opened in their name at Verde so that they receive regular bouquets. One only has to glance at their Yelp page to know that they have a committed following. "We've watched a lot of families grow," laughs Monica.
But what really sets Verde apart from the competition is their commitment to carrying a unique selection of flowers. Many flower shops carry the big bright classics, such as sunflowers, roses, daisies, and baby's breath. Monica makes a point of carrying items that aren't flower shop staples. She moved to Oakland 3 years ago in order to have space to grow more of the shop's flowers and succulents herself. A native of the desert and no stranger to drought, she's also setting up a greywater system for watering her flowers.
Flower arrangements, like fashion, evolve year to year. When Monica first opened the shop, dark flowers were in fashion. Over the years brighter shades have become more popular. This year? It's all about big flowers.
Verde is currently taking Mother's Day orders. Give them a call at (415) 796-3890 to have them create a bouquet for you, or stop by in person and choose a selection yourself.
