NEW MOUNT DORA STORE GREW FROM FAMILIAR ROOTS

Co-owners Henry Ollendick (left) and Joel Maas. (Photo by Mount Dora Buzz)

Five years ago a creative duo departed Key West and headed for Mount Dora.  They quickly set up shop on downtown Mount Dora’s 5th Avenue with the opening of Papilio, a unique gift boutique filled with nature-inspired gifts, art, plants and accessories.  The store soon became a favorite destination for local shoppers and visitors to the quaint Central Florida city.

The owners, Henry Olendick and Joel Maas, have a penchant for plants, nature and creating intimate garden areas.   In early February, the pair will put their green thumbs and design skills to work with the opening of their second store, Botanica by Papilio just around the corner from the sister store which will continue to sell and expand their popular gift lines.

In addition to selling live plants ranging from hearty succulents to rare ferns and tropical bromeliads, the new store will also sell unique garden accessories like rain chains, bird houses and vintage planters throughout the warm and rustic setting.  Botanica will also have inviting outdoor nooks to showcase more plants, water features, bird feeders and huge selection of cement statuary.

For over two decades, the building, next to the landmark Donnelly House, was home to Memories and Marvels.  Last March, the co-owner, JoAnn Handley Gregory, passed away and the building has sat vacant ever since. Ollendick and Maas have magically transformed the space with the help of two talented good friends, Tim and Patty Dando.  The Dandos own Zen Cowgirl and Florida Farm Tables and used their design and construction skills to build many of the unique custom displays and vintage-inspired furnishings that complete Botanica’s inviting vibe. Maas and Ollendick envisioned creating a neighborhood plant shop, but the fruits of the foursome’s  labors went above and beyond what customers would expect.

Gardening-related classes and workshops will also be offered at the store.

Botanica by Papilio is located at 525 N. Donnelly Street in downtown Mount Dora.   ​For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app.  Free subscriptions to Mount Dora Buzz' monthly updates are available here.   ​

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