On The Square – The Little Flower Shop on the Square

Downtown After 5: Where the Holidays Begin and the Square Sparkles

Posted on November 14, 2025November 15, 2025 by admin

Unwrap Your Holiday Spirit at Downtown After 5: Holiday Edition in Historic Downtown Murfreesboro

The glow of twinkle lights, the sound of laughter echoing off brick storefronts, and the scent of fresh evergreens in the air—it must be the start of the holiday season in downtown Murfreesboro!

Here at Veda’s Flowers & Gifts, the Little Flower Shop on the Square, we can already feel the excitement building for one of our favorite nights of the year: Downtown After 5: Holiday Edition on Friday, November 14th, 2025, from 5–8 p.m.

This annual tradition brings together families, friends, and neighbors to celebrate everything we love about the holidays—community, creativity, and that unmistakable small-town sparkle.

So grab your scarf, gather your loved ones, and come experience a night where the holidays truly begin right here in the heart of Murfreesboro.

🎁 The Magic of Downtown After 5

There’s something simply special about being downtown when the first holiday lights come on. The storefronts glow with garlands and wreaths, the music hums softly in the background, and the entire square feels like it’s stepped right out of a Christmas card.

Check out our Facebook links for some Downtown After 5 special promotions we have tonight!

Downtown After 5: Holiday Edition isn’t just another shopping night—it’s the official kickoff to the most wonderful time of the year.

From unique holiday décor and handmade gifts to live entertainment, food, and local shopping, this event captures the warmth and joy of Murfreesboro’s holiday spirit in one unforgettable evening.

Here at Veda’s Flowers & Gifts, we’re dressing the shop in its holiday best—from glittering poinsettias and evergreen wreaths to sparkling ornaments and cozy seasonal scents.

Our windows will be glowing with festive arrangements, and our team will be ready to greet you with holiday smiles, warm cocoa, and a few delightful surprises!

🌸 Step Inside the Little Flower Shop on the Square

As you stroll around the historic square, we invite you to step inside our little corner of holiday magic. This year, our theme is “Bloom Where You’re Gifted,” celebrating the beauty of giving thoughtfully and locally.

Inside you’ll find:

Fresh Christmas Florals bursting with red roses, white lilies, and winter greens.
Custom Wreaths adorned with ribbons, berries, and pinecones—each one handcrafted with love.
Stocking Stuffers & Sweet Surprises like candles, ornaments, mini arrangements, and keepsakes.
Locally Sourced Gifts perfect for friends, teachers, and holiday hosts.

We believe that every bouquet, ornament, or little wrapped package carries more than just beauty—it carries meaning. When you shop small, you’re helping a neighbor, supporting a dream, and keeping the heart of Murfreesboro beating bright.

🎶 Music, Lights & Merriment All Around

As evening falls on November 14th, the Square will come alive with the sights and sounds of the season.

Local musicians will fill the air with carols, restaurants will spill out the smells of delicious dinners, and shoppers will wander between boutiques with cocoa in hand, laughter echoing between historic buildings that have stood for generations.

There will be holiday photo ops, family-friendly activities, and that unmistakable downtown glow that reminds us why we love living here.

Whether you’re hunting for the perfect Christmas décor, browsing for one-of-a-kind gifts, or simply soaking in the small-town magic—this is the night to be downtown.

🕯️ The Spirit of Shopping Small

Every purchase you make downtown—whether it’s a bouquet from us, a meal from a local café, or a handmade ornament from a nearby artisan—stays right here in our community. It helps keep our historic square thriving and our neighbors flourishing.

At Veda’s Flowers & Gifts, we’re proud to be part of Murfreesboro’s story. We see firsthand how supporting small businesses creates ripples of joy that extend far beyond the holidays.

When you choose to shop local, you’re investing in friendships, families, and the very heartbeat of our town.

This year, more than ever, we’re thankful for the customers who make it possible for little shops like ours to continue blooming.

You’ve shared your stories, your smiles, and your traditions with us all year—and now it’s our turn to give back through festive beauty, joyful service, and heartfelt community spirit.

🏙️ Why Downtown Murfreesboro Shines Brighter Every Year

Historic downtown Murfreesboro isn’t just a shopping district—it’s a gathering place. It’s where childhood memories are made, where proposals are whispered under lampposts, and where friends meet for cocoa after a chilly evening stroll.

Each year, Downtown After 5: Holiday Edition grows a little brighter because of you. Families come early to watch the lights turn on. Couples hold hands as they wander through twinkling streets. Kids press their faces against frosted windows, wide-eyed at all the sparkle and color.

We’re proud to be part of this tradition—a place where the holidays come to life, one flower and one smile at a time.

🎄 Holiday Highlights Not to Miss

Here are just a few things we’re most excited about this year:

🛍️ Shop Local Specials: Many downtown businesses (including us!) will have exclusive one-night-only sales and giveaways.
🍫 Treats & Tastings: Sample delicious sweets and beverages as you stroll the square.
🌟 Window Wonderland: Take a walk and enjoy the magical holiday displays lighting up downtown.
📸 Photo Opportunities: Capture the moment with sparkling lights, decorated storefronts, and smiling faces.

And of course—stop by Veda’s Flowers & Gifts to take in our holiday displays, shop our new seasonal collections, and maybe find that perfect something that makes a loved one’s eyes light up.

❤️ From Our Hearts to Yours

For us at Veda’s Flowers & Gifts, this season is about more than garlands and gifts. It’s about gratitude—for this community, for our customers, and for the chance to be part of your celebrations year after year.

We love seeing familiar faces stop in to pick up poinsettias for the mantle, wreaths for the front door, or fresh arrangements to brighten a family gathering.

Each purchase reminds us that we’re not just a shop—we’re part of your traditions, part of your holidays, and part of what makes downtown Murfreesboro so special.

The city of Murfreesboro always shows up in the most heartwarming way to support the local businesses on our historic downtown Square. It’s one of the reasons this community feels less like a city and more like a family.

Every familiar face, every new visitor, every shared conversation becomes part of the friendships we treasure—friendships built with individuals and families big and small who make downtown feel like home. “Downtown After 5” captures that spirit beautifully, bringing out the best of the best in local talent, creativity, and community pride.

And this special pre-Christmas edition is just a prelude to what’s coming very soon—one of Murfreesboro’s most loved holiday traditions that transforms the Square into a scene straight out of a Christmas storybook.

So come share a smile, find a gift, warm your hands with a cup of cheer, or simply enjoy the magic of being together. Because here in The Little Flower Shop on the Square, we believe the holidays bloom brightest when shared with friends.

On the first Friday night of December, our community gathers around the historic Rutherford County Courthouse for one of the most cherished celebrations of the season—the annual lighting of the Rutherford County Christmas tree, presented by Middle Tennessee Electric.

Main Street Murfreesboro brings this tradition to life each year with joyful entertainment, heartfelt caroling, and a festive atmosphere that fills every corner of the Square.

Families bundle up, neighbors greet one another, and children wait with wide eyes for the moment Santa arrives.

The evening is full of classic small-town Christmas charm. Arrive early to enjoy dinner at one of downtown’s local restaurants, visit the live nativity, shop in unique small businesses, and take part in FREE kid-friendly activities and carriage rides beginning at 6:00 PM.

At 6:30 PM, the stage comes alive with an hour-long program featuring choir music, dancing, acting, and community performers.

The highlight, of course, is Santa himself stepping forward to help light the tree—an unforgettable moment that makes the Square glow with holiday spirit.

After the tree is lit, the celebration continues. From 7:30 to 8:30 PM, Santa heads inside the courthouse for free photos, while families continue to wander the Square enjoying entertainment, treats, and twinkling lights.

It’s a Christmas tradition for Murfreesboro—one that brings generations together—and we hope you and your family will be part of the festivities.

Please note: Parking in the Public Square will be closed at 5:00 PM. Convenient parking is available at the Civic Plaza and County Judicial parking garages.

Stay tuned—because the most magical days of the season are just ahead!

🌟 Mark Your Calendar!

Event: Downtown After 5: Holiday Edition
Date: Friday, November 14th, 2025
Time: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Historic Downtown Murfreesboro

Bundle up, bring the whole family, and get ready to unwrap your holiday spirit. Let’s fill the square with laughter, lights, and love—and make this holiday season one to remember.

Because when the lights twinkle, the cocoa’s warm, and the flowers are fresh from Veda’s, you’ll know you’re right where you belong…

✨ Downtown After 5—where the holidays begin and the square sparkles! ✨

Wine, Roses & Rutherford Pride: Our Night at Wine Around the Square

Posted on October 27, 2025October 27, 2025 by admin

If there’s one night every fall when Murfreesboro truly sparkles, it’s Wine Around the Square live event downtown on our historic public square— that magical evening when music, food, spirits, laughter, and pink ribbons fill our beloved downtown. It starts from the first pour to the final song, it’s not just about tasting fine wines — it’s about tasting the goodness of community.

And for us at Veda’s Flowers & Gifts, affectionately known by many as “the little flower shop on the square,” it was a night to remember — full of friendship, generosity, and yes… hundreds of long-stem roses that found new homes in the hands of smiling guests.

What is “Wine Around the Square”?

If you’re new to Murfreesboro or just haven’t yet experienced this incredible event, Wine Around the Square (WATS) is a progressive wine and spirits-tasting celebration that winds its way through the charming shops and restaurants of Historic Downtown Murfreesboro.

Each stop offers something special — from fine wines and cocktails to small bites, live music, and warm welcomes from local business owners.

But what makes it truly beautiful is its purpose:

All proceeds go to the Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Foundation’s Power of Pink Fund, supporting breast cancer awareness, prevention, and care right here in Rutherford County.

The program funds mammograms, screenings, diagnostics, ultrasounds, and MRI scans. It helps cover transportation and lodging for patients during treatment, and even supplies life-saving equipment. In short — every glass raised helps save lives.

A special shoutout goes to Stones River Total Beverages, who provide all the wine and spirits each year, making the event possible for thousands of attendees and dozens of downtown businesses.

“That Little Flower Shop on the Corner”

This year, our shop was buzzing long before the first cork popped.

We had volunteers working behind the counter, serving up bubbly spritzers to the steady stream of guests making their way around the square. These four lovely ladies were so much fun to be around.

The energy was contagious — laughter, conversation, and the sound of clinking glasses, cups and wine tumblers filled the crisp October air.

Before the evening even hit full swing, we’d handed out 200 plus long-stem roses to the ladies visiting our shop. Each rose carried a simple message: You’re beautiful, you’re strong, and you’re appreciated.

The reactions? Absolutely priceless.

We’ll never forget the moment two women walked by our storefront, one holding her rose like a trophy. Her friend gasped and asked,

“Oh my gosh, where did you get that beautiful rose?”

She smiled and pointed down the street, saying, “Down there — at that little flower shop on the corner.”

We chuckled to ourselves. Close enough, we thought. Around here, we’re known as “The Little Flower Shop on the Square.” And on nights like this, it feels like every petal we give out helps our town bloom just a little brighter.

A Toast to Good Music and Good Company

The heartbeat of the night pulsed from the main stage where the Mixtape ’80s Tribute Band played one crowd favorite after another. Their selections all night long was a blast to the past.

Neon lights reflected off wine glasses as couples danced in the street. You could almost feel time rewind to the days of big hair, cassette tapes, and rock ballads.

“Don’t Stop Believin’” echoed around the courthouse square — and honestly, how perfect is that for an event that’s all about hope and perseverance?

We loved watching our fellow shop owners and restaurant partners having a blast, too. From The Alley on Main to Clay Pit and Tennessee Craft Butchers, every business brought their A-game. The food smelled divine, the drinks sparkled, and every corner of downtown felt alive.

As the night went on, we took turns sneaking out to visit our neighbors’ stations, tasting a few wines and chatting with friends old and new.

It’s one of our favorite parts of the evening — supporting one another, laughing together, and seeing just how far this event has come since it first began.

The Heart Behind the Event: The Power of Pink

While Wine Around the Square is an absolute blast, the true heart of the evening is the Power of Pink Fund — and its mission is deeply personal to so many in our community.

This year marked the 14th annual Wine Around the Square, and it continues to be Rutherford County’s premier fundraiser in the fight against breast cancer.

Since its inception, this event has raised more than $2 million, funding over 24,000 mammograms, distributing 779 breast cancer education books, and — just in 2024 — providing 639 rides to and from treatment.

Those numbers represent more than statistics — they’re stories of mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends who were given the chance to fight, heal, and thrive thanks to the generosity of this community. And that’s something worth raising a glass to.

Honoring a Visionary: Patty Marschel

This year’s event was dedicated to Patty Marschel, a beloved Murfreesboro resident and community leader whose compassion helped turn Wine Around the Square into what it is today.

Nearly two decades ago, Patty hosted a simple gathering with friends — a wine and cheese evening inspired by her best friend’s breast cancer diagnosis.

What began as a small show of support has since grown into a signature event that now draws thousands of people and spans multiple city blocks.

Patty’s vision, passion, and commitment have made a profound difference.

She has served on the Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital Board of Directors for 19 years, becoming its first female chair two years ago.

Through her leadership and community engagement, she’s helped expand access to care, grow the Power of Pink Fund, and bring a second mobile mammography coach to serve 26 counties across Middle Tennessee.

And perhaps most inspiring of all — her best friend Susan Loyd, whose diagnosis sparked the very first fundraiser, is now a 20-year breast cancer survivor. Their friendship remains the heartbeat of this cause.

When Patty says, “It is not me. It’s the people like Charlie and PJ Patel and the Stones River Total Beverages team who donate all the wine and spirits, the 150+ volunteers who give their time, and the local businesses who support us,” we can’t help but nod in agreement.

Because it’s true — this community shows up for one another. And we’re proud to be one of the local shops standing shoulder to shoulder in that effort.

Cheers to Community

The thing we love most about Wine Around the Square is how it blends celebration with purpose.

Yes, there’s wine. Yes, there’s music. But beneath it all, there’s this current of compassion and shared pride that makes Murfreesboro such a special place to live and work.

From the early-evening VIP party to the lively crowd dancing under the courthouse lights, the energy is pure joy. We met visitors from all over the county (and even a few from out of state!) who couldn’t stop talking about how friendly and welcoming our downtown is.

Many were return guests who remembered visiting our shop in previous years. One even told us, “I still have the rose you gave me last year — I dried it and kept it in a vase.”

Moments like that remind us why we do what we do.

Reflections from the Team at Veda’s Flowers

As the evening wound down and the last few spritzers were served, our team stood outside the shop watching the glow of string lights and hearing the faint echoes of the band’s final encore.

We couldn’t help but feel grateful — for our neighbors, our customers, and everyone who supports this incredible event.

Every year, Wine Around the Square gets a little bigger, a little brighter, and a little more impactful.

And every year, we’re honored to be part of it — representing small businesses, spreading joy through flowers, and cheering for those who fight breast cancer with courage and grace.

Until Next Year…

So, here’s to the women we celebrate, the survivors we honor, and the community we love.

Here’s to Patty Marschel and her enduring vision, to Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Foundation for its tireless work, to Stones River Total Beverages for keeping the glasses full, and to everyone who walked the square with purpose and pride.

And, of course, here’s to the many hands that helped make the night unforgettable — from volunteers to musicians, from restaurant chefs to business owners, from rose-givers to rose-receivers.

We can’t wait to see what next year brings. We’ll be here — at that little flower shop on the square — ready with fresh blooms, friendly faces, and maybe a few more surprises up our sleeves.

Until then, keep raising your glasses, your hopes, and your hearts. Because together, we make Murfreesboro shine.

About the Event

Event: 14th Annual Wine Around the Square
Date: Saturday, October 25
Location: Historic Downtown Murfreesboro
Hosted by: Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Foundation
Benefiting: The Power of Pink Fund
Entertainment: Mixtape – 1980s Tribute Band
Catering: The Alley on Main, Clay Pit, Tennessee Craft Butchers
Beverage Partner: Stones River Total Beverages

About the Cause

The Power of Pink Fund supports:

Free and low-cost mammograms, diagnostics, and screenings
Transportation and lodging for patients during treatment
Educational resources and outreach
Mobile mammography coaches serving 26 counties
Life-saving medical equipment and patient care assistance

From All of Us at Veda’s Flowers & Gifts

Thank you for letting us be a part of your story, your smiles, and your celebrations — on this night and all year long. If you missed us this time, stop by anytime. Whether you need a single rose or a full bouquet, we’re here to brighten your day, right here on the square.

Here’s to love, laughter, and living beautifully — one flower at a time.

Keeping the Local Economy Running Great

Posted on January 27, 2025June 28, 2025 by admin

Imagine strolling through the historic Murfreesboro public square. The sun catches the brick facades, the air buzzes with friendly chatter, and the scent of fresh blooms drifts from Veda’s Flowers & Gifts known by locals as The Little Flower Shop on the Square.

This isn’t just a picturesque scene; it’s a snapshot of a thriving local economy, powered by you. This isn’t just about buying a bouquet; it’s about investing in your community. It’s about keeping the heart of Murfreesboro beating strong with your heart filled patronage.

Why is supporting local businesses so crucial? Let’s delve into the historical and psychological reasons, exploring how your choices shape the very fabric of our town.

A Walk Through Time: The Roots of Local Commerce

Think back to Murfreesboro’s early days. Before sprawling malls and online giants, the town square was the epicenter of commerce. Local merchants, often families like ours at The Little Flower Shop, were the backbone of the community. They knew their customers by name, understood their needs, and were invested in the town’s well-being.

This personal connection fostered trust and a sense of shared prosperity. This tradition is not unique to Murfreesboro. Throughout history, small businesses have been the lifeblood of communities worldwide. They provided essential goods and services, created jobs, and fostered a sense of belonging. They weren’t just businesses; they were integral parts of the social fabric.

The Psychology of Connection: Why Local Matters

There’s a deep psychological connection to shopping local. When you buy from a small business, you’re not just making a transaction; you’re building a relationship. You’re supporting a dream, a family’s livelihood, and the unique character of your town. This creates a sense of community pride and fosters a feeling of belonging.

Studies have shown that people who shop locally tend to feel more connected to their community. They experience a greater sense of satisfaction knowing their purchases are directly impacting their neighbors and contributing to the overall well-being of their town. It’s a tangible way to invest in something bigger than yourself.

The Engine of the Local Economy: Numbers Don’t Lie

Local businesses are the engine that drives a healthy local economy. When you spend your money locally, a significantly larger portion of that money stays within the community. This creates a ripple effect, benefiting other local businesses, creating jobs, and boosting local tax revenue, which funds essential services like schools and infrastructure.

While precise figures specifically tracking the impact of “shop local” campaigns in Murfreesboro are limited, we can see the positive effects in other key indicators.

Between 2021 and 2022, Murfreesboro experienced a 3.03% population growth, rising from 148,970 to 153,487. This growth was accompanied by an increase in median household income, from $66,984 to $70,000. This economic growth is intertwined with the health of our local businesses. Furthermore, the arts and culture sector in Rutherford County, which includes Murfreesboro, generates approximately $31.2 million annually and supports over 1,000 full-time equivalent jobs.

Many of these cultural hubs are small, locally owned businesses that contribute significantly to the vibrancy of our community. Organizations like LOCAL Murfreesboro actively promote and support local businesses, highlighting their importance to our city’s economic vitality. Their efforts underscore the collective impact of choosing to shop local.

The Murfreesboro Story: Examples of Local Impact

Think of the family-owned restaurants that have been serving Murfreesboro for generations, the local bookstores that foster a love of reading, or the independent boutiques that offer unique finds. These businesses are not just places to shop; they’re part of Murfreesboro’s identity. They contribute to the unique charm and character that makes our town so special.

The Little Flower Shop on the Square is part of this story. We’re not just selling flowers; we’re creating memories, celebrating milestones, and adding beauty to everyday life. We’re part of the fabric of this community, and we’re committed to its continued success.

Main Street Murfreesboro

Mainstreet Murfreesboro is a vibrant organization committed to revitalizing the heart of the city. It’s Mainstreet Murfreesboro objectives to strive to:

Foster community: Organize engaging local events that bring residents together.
Support local businesses: Champion small businesses and encourage economic growth.
Celebrate history: Preserve and showcase the rich heritage of the Murfreesboro area.

Our vision is to transform the courthouse square and surrounding district into the vibrant center of Rutherford County, serving as a hub for cultural, social, professional, and retail activity.

Main Street Murfreesboro is proud to be a participant in the National Main Street America program, a renowned initiative dedicated to historic preservation and economic development all across the United States.

Main Street America leads an inclusive, impact-driven movement dedicated to reenergizing and strengthening older and historic downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts nationwide.

Main Street America is a vast network that leads local efforts across the country to strengthen communities through place-based economic development. See the affiliate and accredited Main Street America directory of communities and partner programs all across the USA.

What is the Keystone Project All About?

Murfreesboro, Tennessee, is on the brink of a significant transformation with the introduction of Project Keystone, a $175 million capital investment aimed at revitalizing the downtown area.

Spearheaded by Brentwood-based developer HRP Residential, the project encompasses a seven-acre tract along Broad Street, stretching from Church Street to Vine Street.

The development plans include approximately 100 condominiums, 239 apartments, 40,000 square feet of retail space, and a boutique hotel featuring up to 150 rooms.

To address potential parking challenges, the proposal includes the addition of 715 parking spaces distributed across three parking garages and ground-level parking.

Infrastructure improvements such as additional turn lanes and pedestrian crossings are also planned to alleviate traffic congestion in the area.

The project has elicited mixed reactions from the community. Some residents are optimistic about the economic boost and increased business opportunities it could bring to downtown merchants. However, concerns have been raised regarding the high proportion of apartments compared to condominiums, with apprehensions about potential long-term maintenance and aesthetic issues.

Councilmember Shawn Wright, the sole dissenting vote on the city council, expressed his preference for more condominiums and fewer apartments, citing worries about the future appearance and upkeep of the apartment units.

As of August 2024, the project faced financing challenges, particularly concerning the boutique hotel component, due to rising interest rates.

City officials have been working to restructure the project’s phases to better manage financing and aim to commence construction by October or November 2024.

Project Keystone represents a pivotal moment for Murfreesboro, with the potential to reshape the city’s landscape and economy.

As the city balances growth with community concerns, the outcome of this development will significantly influence Murfreesboro’s future trajectory.

For a visual overview of the planned redevelopment, you can watch the following video for more details:

Your Choice, Your Impact: Shop Local, Shop Often

Every time you choose to shop locally, you’re making a powerful statement. You’re saying you believe in your community, you value personal connections, and you’re committed to supporting the businesses that make Murfreesboro unique.

It’s about more than just convenience; it’s about investing in the future of your town. It’s about ensuring that the historic public square continues to thrive, that local businesses continue to flourish, and that Murfreesboro remains a vibrant and welcoming community for generations to come.

So, the next time you’re looking for a gift, a treat, or simply a way to brighten your day, remember the power of shopping local. Stop by Veda’s Flowers & Gifts – The Little Flower Shop on the Square, say hello, and experience the difference that supporting local can make.

You’re not just buying flowers; you’re investing in your community. You’re keeping the local economy running great. Just remember to Shop Local & Thank Ya’ll So Much! 🙂