Exfolia Botanical
Chicago, Illinois
Founded by Cassandra Stadnicki
Some people see a flower. Cassandra Stadnicki sees an entire world.
Before opening Exfolia Botanical in Chicago's Logan Square neighborhood, Cassandra spent time photographing nature, foraging wild plants for local chefs, and working in a greenhouse and hydroponic lab. Her relationship with the botanical world goes back even further, to childhood walks through rainy Midwestern forests looking for mushrooms and picking peonies with her dad.
In 2021, she opened Exfolia Botanical, a floral studio and shop where the strange, beautiful, and unexpected parts of nature are always welcome.
Think sculptural arrangements, unusual textures, unexpected color combinations, and flowers that look like they might have a personality of their own. Alongside the floral work, the shop is filled with plants, pottery, and thoughtfully selected goods from independent makers.
Cassandra's approach is rooted in curiosity and a genuine appreciation for the natural world. Exfolia works with seasonal materials, local growers, and ethically foraged botanicals whenever possible.
It's a reminder that flowers don't have to be perfectly arranged to be beautiful. Sometimes the most interesting thing about nature is that it refuses to follow the rules.