the journey to a botanical lifestyle
I'm Andrea Huff. I'm a Wife, Mother and the owner of PLANT, located in Historic Downtown Calera, AL. I opened my storefront in 2020, while many were in lockdown, practicing social distancing and personal isolation. In 2020 a global pandemic shutdown the majority of the country, limited resources, and seemed to be the end to small businesses across the nation. For many individuals like myself, the threat of closures brought a shift in focus when spending, shopping, and the reconsideration of former lifestyles.
It's my belief that a movement came out of the pandemic. One valuing community, connections, and the intent to support the small businesses and people that make up our country. The fear that I once had in opening a business was replaced by the fear of living unfulfilled. If a global pandemic once seemed incredulous, was it really that crazy to believe in myself? The decision to share my ideas, lifestyle, design, and passion was one made with prayer and the support of my husband, Matt. I chose to take the risk both financially and mentally, with purpose. I’ve since built my business around meaningful connections and unique experiences because that's my passion.
My dream to open PLANT started with family, tradition, and determination. Like many in the South, I grew up with beautiful, strong, and hard working women. Women who weren't afraid of sweat, dirt, a well styled home, or having a good time. Gardening, entertaining, food, and style are things that were taught as fundamentals in my southern family. In any environment the care, dedication, and drive remain the same.. It's only the outfits that vary.
While my roots are steeped in southern culture, I've created a unique style and appreciation for things found off the beaten path, meaningful connections through experience, and bringing the outside in - a Botanical Lifestyle that I can't wait to share with you.
Let's celebrate life together and make it beautiful, one experience at a time.
the beginning
We love having a good Pop-Up shop! We continue to do them around town. Interested in having us set up in your store or event? Let us know!
We started our business by featuring beautiful Alabama grown succulents at local Farmers Markets. We support small businesses and local entrepreneurs by carrying their goods in our shop. While we continue to do festivals around the area, it’s our goal to ensure that you always have a uniquely plant experience, whether in shop or meeting us while we’re out and about. Throughout the process of growing our business we’ve also been building community, so whether you’re shopping online, at an event, or visit us in store - you’ll always feel at home.
There’s a reason it’s called a Family Business. All hands on deck during construction and set up.
The view from Hwy 25. I cried the day the sign went up. Although we had already been open for a week or so, it made it real. I could finally drive by and see our sign - and it was a beautiful moment.
Ever painted with a stencil? If you know, you know.
The first line I purchased at market for the shop, in honor of my grandmother, Grace. I used to sit on the floor and go through her patterns and listen to her stories about growing up on the farm. My grandmother and her sisters made their own dresses, using what they could afford, and repurposing what they couldn't. I remember vividly the story of how she was only allowed to wear pants when working the field. This one's for you Maw Maw. I can vote. I run a successful business. I'm raising amazing children - and I do it all while wearing pants.
From Left to Right, Jackie Batson - Calera Main Street Director, Andrea Huff - owner at plant LLC, Dana McCreless - owner at Main Street Fitness, Nedra Moore - owner at Creations Galore & Moore LLC, and Kay Snowden-Turner, Calera City Council It was a proud day for me and these amazing women I had the honor to stand with. Each one of them have worked tirelessly to better our community.
Ribbon cutting ceremony for our Grand Opening on October 2nd 2020! When addressing the community after the cutting, I was a mess! I could hardly speak for crying. I'm thankful to God for making this all possible. I'm thankful to my amazing husband, Matt, for supporting me every step of the way. I'm thankful for my community which has supported me since my first Farmers Market.