A new flower shop has opened in downtown Orillia.
Meagan Breukelman and her boyfriend and business partner, Brandon Melhado, have created Florillia Floral Design which opened on Wednesday at 21 Matchedash St, S, unit 1D.
“I’ve been working in floral design for close to six years and I went to school in Toronto for it in 2017,” Breukelman explained.
“I worked for Street’s Flower Shop which has since closed down. I felt there was a gap in the market, and I thought this was the perfect opportunity to start my own business.”
Breukelman, 24, says Florillia brings a new vibe and trendy products to Orillia.
“We offer different combinations and interesting plants that you can’t find in other places,” she said.
“We have a few rare plants ... and we have some tropical plants right now, too.”
The Thunder Bay native moved to Orillia to realize her dream of opening her own shop.
“Maybe with the pandemic this isn’t necessarily the greatest time to start a business in the eyes of most people, but it’s great timing for us,” Breukelman said.
“This is a brand new and fresh space; I think it’s really important for our brand and it represents us really well. I’m hoping in the summer we will be really busy.”
Breukelman says she has become acquainted with many residents who live above her shop in the Matchedash Lofts, as well as the surrounding businesses.
“Everyone has been super supportive; all the businesses around here have been amazing. On our opening day, we had six local businesses come by with goodies, gifts, and encouragement. It’s been overwhelming,” she said.
“Our customers are super happy we are here and they are saying Orillia kind of needed this. It’s been going really well.”
Breukelman is hoping Florillia can one day grow into being the flagship store for other locations.
“For now, it’s just me and my boyfriend Brandon working out of this space which is perfect for now,” she said.
“Brandon has helped me make my dream a reality. He is my behind-the-scenes helper, delivery driver, and cashier. I’m so thankful for him.”
