ELK POINT, S.D. — Christy Heckathorn, the owner of Fleurish Flower Farm, located in Elk Point, has been recognized as the 2023 South Dakota Specialty Producer of the Year. This prestigious award comes as a culmination of Heckathorn’s dedication and passion for cultivating a flourishing flower business over the past four years.
Fleurish Flower Farm, although currently dormant, transforms into a vibrant hub for flower enthusiasts during the summer months, offering a plethora of floral varieties ripe for picking.
Heckathorn, reflecting on her journey, expressed surprise at her transition into flower farming despite her background as a wedding florist spanning two decades. However, equipped with a solid foundation in design, she embarked on the path of flower cultivation following a transformative flower farming class.
The inception of Fleurish Flower Farm was facilitated by the generosity of Heckathorn’s husband, Chad Heckathorn, who provided the land adjacent to their seed shed business. With this support, the farm came into being, evolving steadily over the years into a beloved community destination.
Preparation for the bustling flower-picking season begins months in advance at Fleurish Flower Farm, where Christy and her dedicated team curate an array of over 75 distinct flower varieties. The farm’s signature ‘You-Pick’ events, held twice weekly, offer visitors the opportunity to craft personalized bouquets amidst a backdrop of live music and local vendors, fostering a convivial atmosphere.
The allure of Fleurish Flower Farm extends far beyond its local confines, drawing visitors from across the region, some even arriving by air and touching down on the grass runway adjacent to the farm—a spectacle that adds to the farm’s charm.
Reflecting on the farm’s popularity, Christy emphasized her commitment to amalgamating her passions into a singular, enjoyable experience for visitors. The acclaim and recognition culminated in her being voted as the 2023 South Dakota Specialty Producer of the Year by the public.
Acknowledging Heckathorn’s remarkable journey, employee Molli Harkin expressed admiration for her tireless efforts in transforming the farm into a beacon of floral excellence.
For Christy Heckathorn, the success of Fleurish Flower Farm serves as a testament to her unwavering dedication and love for flowers, a sentiment she eagerly shares with all who visit. As the anticipation builds for the forthcoming summer season, Fleurish Flower Farm is slated to open its doors to eager patrons in mid-July, promising yet another season of blooming beauty and community joy.
