November Feature Friday
Oakridge Nursery is decked out for the holidays, complete with a faux succulent-laden evergreen. Greenery and baubles dangle from the rafters in the shop, and festooned planters line the walkways. If you look closely, you may spot a small gray kitten hidden among the displays of Christmas trees and decorations.
All of this is just the start of what Oakridge has to offer (minus the kitten--all the cats available have already found new homes). According to part owner Daemon Coughlin, the company goes all out in this manner year-round.
Coughlin hopes to grow the winter season at the nursery, and encourages seasonal gardeners to check out their offerings in the fall and winter months as well. From landscape maintenance to seasonal customizable planters, Oakridge is always expanding what they offer to residential and business customers alike. Among the services offered, customizable planters seem to be the biggest hit among businesses in the area. Take a walk down Splitrock Square’s storefronts, and the nursery’s handiwork graces the front of nearly every suite. The company brings many employees with 20 plus years of experience to the forefront of the plant, landscaping and all things greenery-related industry in Brandon. Nursery staff aim for the company to be a household name in the wider area--and are well on their way to hitting the target.
Future plans for Oakridge include an expansion into tree-planting for the city parks and assisting in replacement of trees that may be lost due to the Core Area Reconstruction Project. Coughlin encourages Brandon residents to participate in the Five Dollar Challenge, as it funds efforts like the city tree planting and circular use of money back into the community.
Oakridge’s Chamber membership predates the current owners, but they have maintained their membership for a number of reasons. Coughlin feels that the BVA Chamber, “Does a good job of promoting local businesses despite being so close to Sioux Falls and all the shopping available there.” He also cites the Chamber’s fostering of business collaboration to benefit the community as a good reason to join.
Current offerings from Oakridge include Christmas wreaths, trees, seasonal planters and decorations. Stop in during Shop Small Saturday for a look at their evergreens and some refreshments. We’ve also heard a certain jolly man in a red suit will be stopping by for a visit from 10am-12pm and 1pm-3pm!
