Elizabeth Endry
Home & Garden Specialty Shop Owner
(The Gardener's Cottage)
Elizabeth "Libby" Endry, born on April 2, 1981, in Pensacola, Florida, is the visionary behind The Gardener's Cottage, a charming home and garden boutique in Gulf Breeze, FL, and Asheville, NC. Her admiration for nature and artistry has inspired her to establish a successful enterprise that mirrors her enduring dedication to elegance and originality.
Early Inspirations and Education
Her deep affection for nature bloomed in her early years through visits to her greatgrandparents' residence on Soldiers Creek in Lillian, Alabama. Her greatgrandmother, a devoted gardener and floral artist, kindled Libby's passion for the intricate craft of floral design.
Raised on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Elizabeth Endry pursued a merchandising degree at Florida State University. Her educational foundation gaveherthe expertise and understanding to blend artistic flair with business acumen.
The Path to The Gardener's Cottage
Upon completing her academic journey, Elizabeth followed her aspirations to New York for an internship. However, her trajectory shifted significantly when she relocated to Asheville in 2004 to be closer to her sister, who was employed at The Gardener's Cottage.
The Gardener's Cottage became available a few months after Endry moved to Asheville, and she and her sister decided to go out on a limb and run it together. Recognizing the remarkable opportunity it presented, Libby and her sister decided to acquire the establishment.
Creating a Lasting Legacy
Nestled in the Historic Biltmore Village of Asheville, the shop is known for its carefullycurated inventory, vintage treasures, and unusual plant selections. Its allure and distinct offerings have endeared it to both locals and tourists.
The business'snotable serviceisbeautifulorchid compositions for prestigious hotels such as the Grand Bohemian, which lies adjacent to the shop. Libby has loved Creating Compositions and custom plantings and continues to do them with the help of her talented crew. Her ingenuity and meticulous approach shone through each display, enriching the hotel's atmosphere from the entrance to the grand halls and elevator foyers.
Amid the challenges posed by the pandemic, Libby embraced the opportunity to think creatively. She conceptualized unique floral compositions for delivery, bringing beauty and solace into people's homes during challenging times. This
innovative approach not only motivated her team but also deepened her bond with the community.
A Focus on Merchandising
Currently, Libby directs her attention towards the merchandising facet of The Gardener's Cottage. She delights in helping customers find exceptional products for their living spaces. Her commitment to thoughtful and innovative design has established her as a paragon of quality.
Libby's establishment transcends mere flower and decor shopping; it serves as a hospitable sanctuary where patrons are embraced like kin. Her amiable nature and inviting smile welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds, instilling in them a desire to revisit.
Engagement in the Community and Philanthropic Endeavors
Libby's influence transcends the confines of her business, as she ardently believes in giving back to the community and championing causes that hold personal significance. Her notable contributions encompass various areas:
Fundraising: Libby has held and will continue the tradition this year with a 12-day Christmas fundraising event that supports local organizations such as Castingfor Hope, Brother Wolf, the Asheville Humane Society, Open Doors, and others that make a difference for animals in need.
Children: She dedicates her time to volunteering at a school catering to underprivileged children, where she conducts floral arranging classes for fourth and fifth graders on Mother's Day and participates in charitable golf events.
Tennis: As a lifelong tennis enthusiast, Libby derives joy from the competitive nature of the sport and the physical activity it offers.
Nature and Mountains: Finding solace in nature and relishing the serene ambiance of cooler climates are integral to her overall well-being.
Community Support: In keeping with her spirit of generosity, she provides financial assistance to organizations such as Casting for Hope, Open Hearts, Art Center, Greenworks, Habitat for Humanity, and Working Wheels.
Celebrating Traditions
Libby Endry of Gulf Breeze treasures the holidays dearly, infusing The Gardener's Cottage with a warm, joyful ambiance. Among the store's beloved rituals is the Annual Open House, a tradition observed every first Sunday of November. This longstanding event will celebrate its 25th anniversary this year and always attracts patrons from local and distant locations, showcasing a delightful assortment of her mother's handcrafted treats.
Acknowledgment of Excellence
Libby's skills and commitment have been duly recognized. Her creations have been showcased in reputable magazines like Flower Magazine, HGTV, and Southern Living, as well as such local publications as The Laurel of Asheville, Asheville Made, and Capital at Play. Her talent for transforming spaces into artistic wonders has earned her widespread acclaim and esteem in the field.
Libby Endry's progression from a nature-loving youth to a thriving business proprietorexemplifiesherenthusiasm,innovation,andsteadfastness.Beyondamere retail space, The Gardener's Cottage mirrors her creative foresight and dedication to enriching lives with beauty. Her compassionate demeanor, complemented by her seasoned proficiency, has forged an enduring heritage that inspires and enchants clientele.
