Behind the Garden Gate

Elite '09

141

359

Gretchen P.

Houston, TX

9/28/2008

The fragrance of this shop is very inviting.  Many layers like a very, very subtle perfume.  The only note I could pick up on was lavender, put that was probably because of the many haphazardly placed dried bunches of it that were spread throughout the store.

Every time I've been in, the friendly owner has been at the back table putting together exquisitely beautiful dried flower arrangements.  What I mean is, the arrangements look as if they came from a high-end florist: many eclectic containers (including some lovely old french terra cotta pots) holding unusual flowers.  Calla Lilies, protea, lavender, roses, mother in law tongues, and quite a number of exotic flowers I couldn't place. Well actually, not all of the flowers and plants in these arrangements are dried, quite a few are preserved.  I saw some very cute, very tiny rose arrangements with preserved orange and purple roses.  The colors were brilliant, as if freshly picked.  Actually, I was surprised how colorful many of the arrangements were, dried or preserved.  The prices are a little far from cute, but considering these arrangements would last a good while longer than fresh ones and considering how expensive fresh floral arrangements can be, the prices seem a little more reasonable that at first glance.  (Roughly $20-$200, but I did spy a few that ran more than $200.)

Beyond the floral arrangements, you can find some antique sun-room items here.  I say sun-room because they're just a little too delicate for the garden or patio, but very reminiscent of these outdoor areas.  For example, an old, repainted then distressed wooden school desk with the resting place for ink and pens and a flip top storage area was about $300.  More that a little pricey.  Also, antique glass jars with glass lids.  Refinished and re-distressed metal gardening tables.  There are lots of great items, indeed.  However, again, they're really over-priced.  

Oh, as a side note, you can bring your dog into the store if you are so inclined.  There is a note on the front door at Fido-height (shin-height for us humans).  Plus, I noticed a bin of dog biscuits at the register.

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