J. Kinney, Florist
1835 Monroe St., 255-7500
9 am-5 pm Mon.-Tues., 9 am-6 pm Wed.-Fri., 11 am-4 pm Sat. Closed Sun.
The Garden of Eden is right here in Madison. Exotic flowers bloom in every corner, the intoxicating scent of hyacinths and freesia saturates the air, and friendly animals roam about freely. You see plenty of things that tempt you, though no evil snakes or apple trees.
This is J. Kinney, Florist, a flower shop and boutique where Adam and Eve would feel at home. Most every indulgence can be found here: vintage kimonos bought directly from old Japanese estates, charming shabby-chic antiques, white cotton nightgowns perfect for balmy summer nights, sumptuous bath products. All in a calming, flower-filled atmosphere complete with a sweet little kitty named Iris that nuzzles customers as they shop.
Jane Kinney, the shop's owner, florist and namesake, has been in the business for 24 years, first at her location on King Street and now almost two years at her present space. She says, 'I sell articles that speak to people's pasts, those things that give a feeling of comfort that's really needed in today's world.'
As I purchase a lemongrass soy candle and some cabbage-rose-and-citrus-scented lotion, Iris is curled up next to the register, purring happily. I feel a bit like Iris right now, soothed by my shopping experience.
Take home a few of these divine delights: Inner Child floral embroidered hooded sweatshirt ($70); Pomegranate coral print tablecloth ($35); Lollia bath/body products, perfumes, and candles ($6-$57); Illume candles ($2.50-$30).
