Rouvalis Flowers & Gardens, nestled under its distinctive green-and-white awning on West Cedar Street, remains a beloved fixture in Boston’s Beacon Hill neighborhood. Known for its exquisite floral arrangements and lush greenery, the shop has long been a favorite among locals and tourists alike, consistently recognized as a top choice in Boston.
Emily Montany and Sean Murphy, both former students at the Boston Architectural College, found themselves thrust into the role of proprietors when the shop’s longtime owner, Bill Rouvalis, passed away in 2009. Despite their youth—Montany was just 20 and Murphy 24 at the time—they seized the opportunity to take over the business. “We were young, and we figured, what do we have to lose?” Montany recalls. “It was a big risk, but here we are 15 years later.”
Under their stewardship, Rouvalis Flowers & Gardens has evolved while maintaining its core charm. The addition of garden design and installation services has complemented the shop’s renowned floral offerings. Recently, Montany and Murphy expanded their footprint with a new 2,000-square-foot location in Winchester, meticulously designed to reflect their vision. “Sean and I were able to design the space exactly how we wanted it,” Montany explains. The new shop features a dedicated area for creating custom bouquets, alongside home decor items like furnishings, textiles, and rugs, as well as a curated selection of container gardens.
Operating a business centered on perishable products like flowers presented its challenges, especially navigating the logistics of deliveries in demanding conditions. Initially, the couple juggled their responsibilities with rigorous academic schedules, spending six days a week at the store and attending classes late into the night. “It was overwhelming at times,” Montany admits. “Living up to Rouvalis’s legacy while adapting to our own style was a balancing act.”
Through it all, Montany and Murphy have prioritized maintaining the personal touch and exceptional customer service that defined Rouvalis Flowers & Gardens under its previous owner. “We’ve upheld the values that made Rouvalis special,” Murphy affirms. “Customer satisfaction remains our top priority.”
As Rouvalis Flowers & Gardens continues to flourish, Montany and Murphy look ahead with optimism, embracing both the traditions of the past and the opportunities of the future. The shop’s enduring appeal and commitment to quality ensure its place as a cherished destination in Boston’s floral landscape.