Main Street Wilmington unveils summer flower project with Swindlers Florist

During the Wilmington City Council Public Workshop on March 6, 2025, a significant focus was placed on enhancing the downtown area's aesthetic appeal through a new floral initiative. Trevor Shoemaker, the executive director of Main Street Wilmington, and Kristen Andulik from Swindlers Florist presented their plans for the "Downtown Flowers 2025" project, aimed at revitalizing the city’s curb appeal.

Shoemaker highlighted the importance of making downtown Wilmington more inviting for both residents and potential businesses. He explained that the initiative stems from feedback received from visitors and prospective companies, who noted that the downtown area lacked a vibrant atmosphere. To address this, the project will include the installation of hanging baskets and large pots filled with colorful flowers at seven key intersections throughout the city.

Andulik, representing her family’s long-standing floral business, emphasized their commitment to creating a cohesive and visually appealing floral display. She shared insights gained from successful plantings in nearby Washington Courthouse, which inspired their design choices. The plan includes a variety of flowers that will be planted after the last frost, around May 15, and will be maintained throughout the summer.

A critical aspect of the proposal is the maintenance plan. Andulik and Shoemaker discussed the challenges of watering and caring for the plants, proposing that Swindlers Florist would take on the responsibility of regular maintenance. This partnership aims to ensure that the flowers remain healthy and vibrant, alleviating some of the burdens from city maintenance staff.

The discussions also touched on the broader implications of the project, as it not only aims to beautify the downtown area but also to foster community engagement and pride. The initiative is seen as a step towards enhancing Wilmington's appeal as a destination for visitors and potential new residents.

In conclusion, the Downtown Flowers 2025 project represents a collaborative effort to improve Wilmington's downtown environment. With plans for vibrant floral displays and a commitment to ongoing maintenance, the initiative is poised to make a significant impact on the city's aesthetic and community spirit in the coming summer months.