In a significant move, Baylor Flowers, a beloved fixture in the Baylor community for decades, has relocated to a new permanent site on La Salle Avenue. The shop, previously situated at the corner of 16th Street and Speight Avenue, now occupies a prime spot at the intersection of 11th Street and La Salle Avenue.
According to Shop Manager and Lead Designer Lauren Prather, the decision to relocate was driven by a desire for change and the approaching lease renewal. “There were just things we wanted to change, and with the lease coming up, it was either now or never,” Prather explained.
The new location is fully owned by Baylor Flowers, providing the staff with the creative freedom they had long sought while renting previous spaces. “It feels so freeing to be in your own place where you can do anything and you don’t have to ask the landlord,” noted owner Kim McMorrough. “You can spend money on improvements, but you’re adding value for your landlord, not for yourself. It just feels so good that we know everything we’re doing is for us.”
The exterior design of the new storefront reflects the shop’s personality and was a collaborative effort between the Baylor Flowers staff and local designers. The design features black and white awnings and flower boxes, with notable contributions from local artists Kalyn Dunks, who created a vibrant mural, and Mike Macdonald of The Old 93, who handled the lettering atop the entrance and is working on the store’s future road sign.
Both McMorrough and Prather emphasized their commitment to maintaining strong ties with the Baylor community, given the shop’s name and proximity to the university. “We love the Baylor community,” Prather said. “That’s kind of where we started and where we want to stay. We want to keep the connection. I would say that’s the major reason [for the change].”
Baylor Flowers is among the first businesses to invest in La Salle Avenue since the Route 77 Food Park, marking a significant step in the area’s revitalization. McMorrough expressed enthusiasm for the future, noting that while some projects stalled due to COVID-19, Baylor Flowers is eager to be part of the area’s renewal.
While the relocation has been successful, there are still improvements to be made. McMorrough plans to enhance the landscaping and renovate the parking lot over time. Additionally, a grand opening event is planned, with potential giveaways, and updates will be shared on the shop’s social media pages.
Ultimately, Baylor Flowers aims to continue serving the Waco and Baylor communities by offering beautiful flowers and plants, while also becoming a popular spot for photos in front of its vibrant mural. “We’re just really looking forward to keep serving the Waco and the Baylor community and just be a place where you can come and buy beautiful flowers and beautiful plants, and take a picture in front of the mural,” Prather said.
