There’s something delightfully chaotic about three brand-new shops deciding to share a single grand opening celebration, and it’s absolutely working. On Saturday, July 25, from 6 to 9 p.m., a stretch of Central Avenue in St. Pete’s Grand Central District will become the most adorable block party the neighborhood’s ever seen, when Gypsea Blooms, The Blue Urban Project Thrift, and The Carpenter’s Daughter swing their doors open together at 1622 Central Ave.
Let’s start with Gypsea Blooms, because, honestly, a build-your-own bouquet bar is the kind of concept that makes you wonder why it took this long. Founded by Andrea Harper and led by lead florist Nicole Gebler, this coastal-inspired shop is far more than a flower store. It’s a gifting destination where you can pick individual stems and assemble your own arrangement, or have the staff build a custom gift basket on the spot. The shop also carries jewelry featuring crystals and shells, candles, bath products, and one-of-a-kind artisan goods sourced through Harper’s travels. If you’re among the first 25 guests on opening night, you’ll even walk out with a free flower, which is objectively a good deal.
Photos via Gypsea Blooms
Right next door is The Blue Urban Project Thrift, and this one’s got a backstory worth paying attention to. It’s a veteran-founded nonprofit, built by Army veteran Kirsten Hutchings and Navy veteran Raymond Salden, and its mission runs a lot deeper than vintage finds. The shop at 1620 Central Ave. channels sales into marine environmental conservation and community support for veterans. Think underwater cleanups, discounted scuba certification classes, and free Blue Urbanism workshops. When hurricane season rolls through, it converts into a full disaster-relief distribution center for affected residents. There’s also a living green wall and a mural by local artist Daniel “R5” Barojas inside, because St. Pete wouldn’t have it any other way.
Photos via The Blue Urban Project
Rounding out the trio is The Carpenter’s Daughter, owner Ursula Gonzalez’s size-inclusive women’s boutique at 1624 Central Ave. After five years of waiting for the right St. Pete opportunity, Gonzalez has channeled that patience into a shop with a shabby-chic French country aesthetic, carrying everything from dresses and rompers to handbags, jewelry, and designer-inspired perfumes. Sizes run from XS to 3X, and the whole ethos is boutique quality at prices that won’t send you into a tailspin. She’s also planning ladies’ nights, private events, and fundraisers, so this is more than just be a place to shop. It’ll be a place to be.
Photos via The Carpenter’s Daughter
The triple grand opening runs Saturday, July 25, from 6 to 9 p.m. at 1622 Central Ave. in St. Petersburg. Expect door prizes every hour, a grand prize giveaway, complimentary sips and sweet treats, and grand opening specials all evening.