BUHLER, Kan. — A small-town flower shop with a big heart is helping residents celebrate life’s moments one bouquet at a time.
Taisha “Tai” Epp, owner of Flowers by Tai, has operated her homegrown floral business in Buhler since 2020, delivering arrangements for everything from birthdays and proms to weddings and funerals.
What started during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic has grown into a steady, community-focused service that Epp said fills a need for a local florist.
“I would always see people say, ‘I wish we had a flower shop in Buhler,’” Epp said. “Flowers are such an easy way to connect with someone and brighten their day.”
Located at 109 E. Third Ave., just off Main Street behind the Methodist Church, Flowers by Tai currently operates primarily by call or text order, with delivery available. Epp plans to open the shop for walk-in customers around major holidays such as Valentine’s Day and hopes to eventually offer a self-checkout, grab-and-go setup.
Unlike larger online florists, Epp said she focuses on personal service and unique products. She sources many of her flowers directly from farms in Ecuador and often carries specialty roses in colors like blue and lavender that are not commonly found in grocery stores.
“I like to bring in things you don’t see every day,” she said. “People already ask me to save the different colors for them each year.”
For Valentine’s Day, Epp is offering arrangements at a wide range of price points, including budget-friendly options for students. She said she plans to offer small bouquets starting around $15 and discounted delivery for local students to make flowers more accessible for young couples.
“There’s always young love,” she said. “Not everybody has a big budget, but they still want to do something special.”
Epp, who previously worked in a doctor’s office, said flexibility sets her shop apart. Customers can text her directly, even after hours, to place or plan orders.
“If you think of it late at night and don’t send the message, you might forget,” she said. “I want it to be easy.”
Flowers by Tai also provides flowers for school events, church services, banquets and community fundraisers, including arrangements for Sunshine Meadows’ annual gala.
Orders can be placed by calling or texting 316-295-7744 or by messaging the Flowers by Tai Facebook page, where customers can view past designs and request custom arrangements.
