If you love Lake Norman, you must visit Albertine Florals Wine & Gifts in Denver, NC. Besides being full-service Lake Norman florists, the store also offers a diverse selection of wine from all over the world, unique local artisan gifts, and various creative classes and wine tastings. Albertine’s could be your one-stop shop for finding or creating the perfect gift for any occasion.
A family-owned business, Pamela Hess and her daughter Kate, opened the store’s doors in 2019. After the highly attended Denver Art Trail disbanded in 2017, the Hess’ saw an opportunity. Besides knowing there was a need for a locally owned gift shop, they also wanted to create a brick-n-mortar platform to allow local artisans (complete list below) to showcase their talents. That is where their story began.
In addition to being Lake Norman florists, the proprietors are both creative spirits. Kate is a talented mixed media artist, and Pam is a retired teacher with a love for art. You can find their passion within their mission statement. Kate states, “Our primary goal is to honor creative expression.” In addition, Pam says, “Being able to showcase local art helps build the community’s identity and cultural significance and celebrates the beautiful place we call home.”
As you walk through the shop, you can’t help but fall in love with the local flavor. You’ll find one-of-a-kind gifts that you won’t be able to see on Amazon or in the big box stores. Besides having an ongoing stock of new and unique offerings, a strong focus on excellent customer service keeps the store’s loyal clientele returning regularly. For every order they receive, they strive to put together the best gift, whether it’s for a dancing recital, new home closing gift, graduation, and so much more. But that’s not all.
One of the most admirable business practices is Albertine’s dedication to being an environmentally friendly establishment. The florist shop is striving to be 100% recyclable and compostable. These Lake Norman florists practice sustainable efforts including composting flower stems, reusing and buying back vases, recycling plastic wraps, and using biodegradable floral foam to stabilize floral arrangements.
Pamela and Kate know how important it is to support their local community, and that’s why they love giving back. “Having a community connection and helping others is what it’s all about.” Albertine’s regularly donates custom gift baskets to charitable events, fundraisers, school events, and so much more.”
Featured Local Artisans (2022)
- Watts Custom Woodworking- Custom woodworking
- Julie Davis – Embroidery
- Green Bird Studios – Unique Artisan Jewelry
- Nathalie Naslund – Copper & Silver Jewelry
- Sheryl Marinelli – Paintings, painted rocks, and collages
- Lydia Ellis – Pottery
- Fern & Flame Candle Co. – Hand-poured, small-batch, 100% AMERICAN Soy Wax Candles
- KC Candles by Kristina Thomas – Candles
- C&D Innovations – Custom Laser Engraving on Tumblers, Glass, Coffee Mugs, Cutting Boards, Charcuterie Boards, Water Bottles, Bottle/Can holders, Growlers, coasters, Journals, pizza boards, and more.
- Vicky Dunbridge – Baby quilts
- Maria Fenesy – Acrylic paintings and other crafts
- Julie Anna Kaufman – Oil paintings & prints
- Robert Nichols – Chef-inspired candles and chandelier lights
- Squirrel’s Nest by Joani Prew – Whimsical gifts, gnomes, and a children’s author
- The Little Love Library – A boutique collection of self-published children’s books by Pamela Colsher.
- Just The Tip Designs, LLC – Handcrafted metal art by Matt Desautel
- Evolve- Handcrafted, organic, local skincare by Jill Sullivan-Keating
- Bella Smith – Crochet items
- Debbie Smith – Handmade Ornaments
The next time you want to express your gratitude or celebrate a special event, check out Lake Norman florists, Albertine Florals Wines & Gifts! We’re confident you’ll have a great experience. Support local!