Elbow Creek Garden & Gift in downtown Eau Gallie

History buffs will know that Elbow Creek is the former name of the Eau Gallie River, a tributary of the Indian River.

Shelly McKinney considers herself a history buff and selected the name after spending lots of time at the historical society. The former court reporter always had a passion for gardening and opened up the business after being inspired by garden centers up north and in California.

Located in the Eau Gallie Arts District at the corner of Eau Gallie Causeway and Pineapple Avenue, the charming store is a part gift boutique and part gardening center. Shelly considers it the “gateway” to the arts district, “plants fall into the arts theme,” she says.

The newly renovated building houses the store while the gardens that surround it are still a work in progress. Shelly makes sure the staff is knowledgeable and takes the time to assist customers answering questions and educating them on topics like cold hardy options- even loading purchases into cars. Customers can use a potting station set up for those that do not have space or equipment at home.

She also plans to host classes on topics like vegetable gardening. She concentrates on organic and eco-friendly choices and gifts that are American made. Local artists’ work is featured and she plans to host art exhibits and benefits to support the community.

The selection is always changing since some of the most popular items sell out quickly. Not that Shelly is complaining, “I work 16 hour days, seven days a week and it’s easy,” she explains. “Our customers are wonderful.”