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Walk through the newly reinvigorated Union Station and you’ll immediately see Bloom’s handiwork, from the floral arrangements that line the Terminal Bar to the eclectic storefront that attracts commuters and guests of the Crawford Hotel alike. Union Station is home to Bloom‘s second location (open since July 2014); the larger Cherry Creek North store is where production happens and most of the furniture inventory resides. Both are great options for anyone seeking to update their pad or find a unique gift, though in her newer shop, owner Anuschka Pashel incorporates more affordable goods—specifically gifts and travel items—into the mix.
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A former model, Pashel came to America in 1988 from Germany, eventually going to work for a New York City florist. When she moved to Denver, she found the floral scene lacking and started making her own arrangements in her garage. As her following blossomed, Bloom was born. Over time, her business transformed into the lifestyle boutique it is today, specializing in gifts, home decor, jewelry, and, of course, fresh flowers. Pashel is particular when it comes to stocking her store, traveling extensively and buying only what she likes. “I try to find things that are good quality, things you don’t see anywhere else,” say Pashel. “If I see other people have something, I stop [carrying it] and move on to something new.”
Pashel’s 23-year-old son Levin Goodrich works full time at the Union Station location; her 12-year-old son helps her make jewelry, and her mother supplies the shop with homemade bags made with recycled fabric from Bloom’s furniture sales—giving the entire store a homey vibe. So many people dig the store’s style that Pashel offers design consultations, which range from simple accessorizing to more extensive work. “ ‘No’ is not an option. Everything is doable,” Pashel says, and she means it: If you want to buy the desk the register sits on, it’s yours. The neon “S-K-I” sign that hangs on the wall? It’s $295 per letter, A to Z.
Though the store has already begun taking floral orders for Valentine’s Day—one of Bloom’s busiest days of the year—there will be plenty of arrangements available day of, and the store will be stocked with goods handpicked for the holiday. With Pashel’s help, we’ve highlighted the perfect gifts to suit any relationship.
For Your Tinder Date:
A single red rose ($2).
For Your Match.com Date:
“If you give somebody flowers, you can never go wrong,” says Pashel. “In February, you want to do seasonal stuff. Tulips are great, or even ranunculi, hyacinths, or anemones. Orchids are always good, too.” The first impression made by a bouquet of tulips should be well-worth the $24. (Pro tip: Keep flowers fresh even longer by replacing the water, giving them a fresh cut, and keeping them cool and out of the sun.)
If you’re shopping for a man, go with succulents; Bloom can accommodate any budget, starting at $11 for a single plant to upwards of $500 for larger, custom pieces.
For your girlfriend:
Pashel recommends mixing things from around the shop to create fun, personalized gift combos. For example: a $27 Tocca candle, whimsical matches (which range from $6 to $15), and a card ($6).
For your boyfriend:
An $85 Cire Trudon candle in Ernesto, a leather and tobacco scent—trust us, it’s a gift for the giver as well. Or, try sassy pillowcases to set the mood (we love the “Him, Him” version, $40).
For your wife:
Bloom stocks an impressive amount of jewelry, and though there are some $40 options, the precious stones are the main attraction. The least expensive of that class are $375 bracelets made of rubies, diamonds, black diamonds, or sapphires. Those earrings they’re sitting next to (above) will set you back $765. Jewelry boxes range from $35 to $115 (depending on size).
For your husband:
A five-piece watch box ($135). If your husband doesn’t have enough wrist bling to fill it, you know what to do.
For your roommate:
A $70 spot to wipe your feet might cut into your ability to pay rent on time, but your roomie won’t mind once she sees this adorable welcome mat on the porch.
If you don’t have a valentine:
Treat yourself to something from Blithe and Bonny’s line of handcrafted goods. Made in Santa Cruz, Calif., the bath products are powerful enough to wash away any reminders of lovers past. We recommend the $25 bath salts in Eucalyptus Mint, which are especially nice after a long day on the slopes.
Bloom Cherry Creek North, 2353 E. Third Ave.; Bloom Union Station, 1701 Wynkoop St. 720-941-2862, bloomdenver.com
—Succulents photo courtesy of Bloom