By Christine Shelby | OBSERVER Staff Writer
Da’Reen and Kevin Reichenberg, are the creative force behind Poppy + Pot, a unique floral design and pottery shop nestled in Sacramento’s Curtis Park. Beyond a mere retail space, the shop is a haven for self-expression and inclusivity, offering a one-of-a-kind fusion of floral artistry and handcrafted ceramics.
Da’Reen’s journey began over seven years ago at a local Sacramento florist. Starting as a customer service clerk, her passion for the craft blossomed as she learned all the aspects of the business. Encouraged by her husband, Kevin, she took a leap of faith and launched Daisy Head Florals in 2019, specializing in weddings and events. However, the COVID-19 pandemic hit right before her first wedding took place. As a result, Da’Reen was forced to pivot to elopements and local deliveries until 2021.
A Spark Ignited: Kevin’s Pottery Passion
While the world came to an abrupt halt in 2020 Kevin discovered a new creative outlet. Scrolling through Instagram like so many others, he found himself captivated by the world of pottery. Da’Reen ended up surprising him with a pottery wheel for their anniversary. “That was the first time I ever touched clay, and I was 31,” Kevin recalls. “Something just clicked, and I just decided from there to devote my life to this one thing.”
A year and half ago, the couple decided to go into business together and combine their passions. Their vision? To create an inclusive space where creativity could thrive. The shop is a burst of color, filled with details that invite exploration. A curated display of locally made items like clay earrings, jams, and wooden charcuterie boards, separates the front retail space from large work space. Pictures of happy couples holding vibrant bouquets adorn the walls, alongside captivating artwork and a large mural designed and painted by Da’Reen herself.
The couple is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment within the walls of Poppy + Pot. This commitment is evident in their diverse offerings, from engaging pottery classes to flower-arranging classes. Kevin’s introductory classes are also a major draw, selling out quickly with waitlists forming as soon as new sessions are announced. Da’Reen attributes this success to Kevin’s infectious passion for the craft. The inviting studio space itself provides a comfortable and inspiring environment for learning.
Celebrating Sacramento’s LGBTQ+ Community
Poppy + Pot is a proud advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, offering a safe space for all. Da’Reen, who identifies as Black and queer, emphasizes this inclusivity.
“I wanted to make sure that it was evident when you walked in our doors, that you’re welcome when you come here,” she said. This translates into her approach with customers, using inclusive language when discussing designs and plans. “I try not to use just bride and groom,” she explained. “Wedding bouquet instead of bridal bouquet, wedding party, things like that.” Poppy + Pot also participated in Sacramento Pride 2024, handing out vibrant rainbow colored roses and also hosted a Pride Market in June.
Their drag queen flower-arranging classes have been popular, hosted by local drag queen and friend to Da’Reen, Serpentina. The classes, called “Bouquet you Slay,” came from Da’Reen’s obsession with Drag Race and her personal affinity for performing in drag.
Beyond Bouquets
Da’Reen believes that flowers, regardless of the occasion, are meant to uplift someone’s spirit. This philosophy extends beyond aesthetics. She acknowledges the importance of community and collaboration in her journey as an entrepreneur. “I’m very big on community and having the people around you that maybe don’t even do the same thing,” Da’Reen said. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to get a mentor who supports you and can give advice when you need it. Continuing to talk about what you do and what you want to do is another piece of advice she offered. In Da’Reen’s words, that was how the Poppy + Pot shop was secured because she told someone her desire and a location suggestion was shared. Since then, it has continued to stand as a testament to the power of passion, self-expression, community and a celebration of Sacramento’s creative scene.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This story is part of the Digital Equity Local Voices Fellowship Lab. The Lab initiative is made possible with support from Comcast NBCUniversal.