Nestled in the heart of Beacon Hill, Rouvalis Flowers & Gardens continues to flourish under the stewardship of Emily Montany and Sean Murphy, a dynamic duo whose journey from students to business owners embodies both perseverance and passion.
Formerly students at the Boston Architectural College, Montany and Murphy found themselves thrust into the world of entrepreneurship when the shop’s longtime owner, Bill Rouvalis, passed away in 2009. Seizing the opportunity, the young duo, aged 20 and 24 respectively at the time, courageously assumed ownership of the beloved flower shop. Reflecting on their decision, Montany recalls, “We were young, and we figured, what do we have to lose? It was a big risk, but here we are 15 years later.”
Today, Rouvalis remains a cornerstone of its community, its distinctive green-and-white striped awning a beacon on West Cedar Street. The shop continues to enchant passersby with its vibrant displays of flowers and plants, a tradition that has endured through the years. Beyond the storefront, Montany and Murphy have expanded the business to include comprehensive garden design and installation services, culminating in the recent opening of a spacious 2,000-square-foot location in Winchester. “Sean and I were able to design the space exactly how we wanted it,” Montany explains, highlighting features like a dedicated room for crafting personalized bouquets and a curated selection of home décor items.
However, the path to success has not been without its challenges. Managing a business centered on perishable goods and intricate logistics demanded unwavering dedication. Initially, Montany and Murphy juggled six-day work weeks at the shop alongside evening classes, striving to maintain the legacy of Bill Rouvalis while imprinting their own vision. “It was great to take over an existing company, but it was a ton of pressure to do what Bill would have done, how Bill would’ve done it. To live up to what Rouvalis was,” reflects Montany.
Despite the growth and evolution of Rouvalis under their stewardship, the couple remains steadfast in their commitment to personalized service. “We’ve kept the customer service and personal touch,” Murphy affirms. “I think that’s number one, and it’ll always be number one.”
As Rouvalis Flowers & Gardens continues to bloom, Montany and Murphy stand as living testaments to the enduring spirit of entrepreneurship and community dedication, ensuring that the legacy of the iconic Beacon Hill institution thrives well into the future.
