Meadow House Flowers and Gifts
Photos by Jacqueline Russell
In the heart of the Old Town Shopping Center on 18th Street, a growing small business community welcomed Meagan Cooley when she launched her flower shop in August 2022. Just a few years ago, Meagan embarked on a transformative journey that led her from a busy life in New York City to the gentler pace of Owensboro, where she can focus on her family while she grows her business.
As a native of Madisonville, Meagan’s roots were deeply embedded in Western Kentucky. Her love for flowers blossomed after college. “I was in so many weddings, and I loved being around the flowers,” she said. “One day I realized someone does that for a living.” That inspired her to try her own hand at floral design.
She and her husband, Ben, transformed a vintage 1965 Robin’s Egg blue Ford pickup into a mobile flower shop—a unique concept that turned the truck bed into a flower bar where patrons could mix and match stems to assemble their own creative bouquets. The flower shop on wheels appealed to many people at Owensboro’s festivals and outdoor events, but Meagan hoped to one day have something more permanent. The truck was limiting, and although the vintage vibe was great, the older truck wasn’t always reliable.
Thankfully, classic car enthusiasts were always making offers to buy it from her, and one day, she was tempted enough to accept.
“It has just always been a dream to actually have a storefront,” she said. “‘I never thought it would be possible. It’s kind of like a way out there dream, or so I thought until I realized that the truck was valuable enough that I could have some good money to start up.”
The success of her mobile flower truck propelled Meagan’s dream forward, culminating in the establishment of Meadow House Flowers and Gifts on 113 E 18th St. More than just a traditional florist, this enchanting space combines the allure of a full-service flower boutique with an eclectic collection of jewelry and home goods.
“I’ve really enjoyed it,” Meagan said of owning the store. “It lets me meet so many new people. Just having a permanent space is so much more conducive to doing business. People have time to realize you’re there and want to support you.”
Step inside Meadow House, and you’ll find a cozy, calming spot of beauty. Custom floral arrangements are crafted with love and an eye for detail, while the flower bar (inspired by the flower truck days) invites visitors to immerse themselves in the art of floral design by handpicking stems and creating their own personalized bouquets.
“I want people to know we have a myriad of ways to interact with flowers,” she said. “There are multiple options for sending people gifts, whether it’s flowers, whether you make it yourself or purchase a retail gift.”
Gifts include everything from cards and candles to unique jewelry and home goods, and the store will deliver them to the recipient (in Owensboro) for all occasions.
Meagan’s passion for connecting with people through flowers is palpable. She cherishes the relationships she’s built with regular customers, who have become friends over time. Despite the demands of balancing a thriving business with a busy family life—including three young children under the age of four—Meagan remains steadfast in her commitment to providing the Owensboro community with heartfelt gifts and unforgettable floral experiences. And she credits her family and strong support system as the only way that’s possible. She’s also been lucky to find a great employee in Ash Keifer, and that’s helped keep life balanced.
With dedication, creativity, and a genuine love for her craft, Meagan has turned her dream of Meadow House Flowers and Gifts into a charming reality.
“I’m like thankful to be a part of this community, and Owensboro has been really welcoming and I’m thankful for that,” she said.
Store hours are Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. OL
