Known for her floral artistry and elegant events, Sebrell Smith blends beauty with business.
Written by KATHRYN DRURY WAGNER
Photography by KATHERINE IVES PHOTOGRAPHY
LIKE A CAREFULLY TENDED CAMELLIA PLANT, Sebrell Smith’s love for Savannah has grown and blossomed over the past decades. Smith, who is the owner and creative director of Sebrell Smith Designer Events and owner of Sandfly Flower Shop, produces some of this area’s most elegant weddings and special occasions.
Smith first moved here during high school, attending St. Vincent’s Academy, then the Savannah College of Art and Design, graduating with a degree in historic preservation.
“My first job was with SCAD, working in the historic Poetter Hall on Madison Square,” Smith says. “It was an incredible experience — walking through the squares daily, enjoying lunch on park benches and listening to St. John’s Church bells ring twice a day.”
After marrying her high school sweetheart, Damon, the couple settled into a home in Ardsley Park; with daughter McAlister’s arrival, the family moved to the Isle of Hope area 20 years ago.
“Our property, which includes my business, Sandfly Flower Shop, features a long, winding driveway through the trees, leading to our sanctuary where the Moon River flows into Herb Creek.” Their property was once home to a horticulturist and includes original ‘Frances McLanahan’ variety of camellias from plants dating to the 1920s. “Despite being in the middle of town, the abundant wildlife and natural beauty make it feel like a secluded paradise.”
Their home is shared by Big City, their cat with an outsized attitude that matches his name, and Henley, their goldendoodle who works as the official greeter at Sandfly Flower Shop.
What’s your idea of a perfect day? It revolves around the water. You might find me at The Wyld Dock Bar, sipping a gin and tonic while enjoying the coastal view, or taking a quick boat ride to Old Daufuskie Crab Company.
Favorite date night location? For date night, Sobremesa is currently my top choice. The food and wine pairings are exceptional, and I love the upscale, yet casual, relaxed atmosphere they’ve created. It’s the perfect balance of sophistication and comfort. (See page 117 for more on Sobremesa.)
Where do you like to shop for clothing? I love clothes, but I’m a terrible shopper! I can visualize a room in no time, but I can’t put together an outfit without help to save my life. I like J. Parker LTD. in Twelve Oaks and at Plant Riverside District. Emily McCarthy is perfect for both my daughter and me; we never walk out empty-handed. And Leah Bailey Interiors — don’t let the name fool you — they have fabulous clothing.
Best place to take visitors? I always insist on a walking tour of the downtown squares to experience our historical sites. We’ll often stop by Crystal Beer Parlor for lunch or enjoy drinks at Peregrin rooftop bar. Pizza at Vinnie Van GoGo’s in City Market is a crowd-pleaser.
Meeting up with your bestie? For brunch, I love Collins Quarter. Their Swine Time Beni is a must-try! Cohen’s Retreat is another favorite lunch spot, with its eclectic atmosphere and the bonus of browsing what’s new at the Brown Dog Market.
What cause are you passionate about? Two organizations: The Ambucs Foundation, which helps people (mostly children) overcome mobility challenges, and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS), which holds special meaning for our family. My daughter participated as an LLS Star Student of the Year in high school, later becoming a mentor volunteer, in honor of my late mother-in-law, Susan Usher. My brother-in-law, Matthew Usher, was named LLS Man of the Year for his fundraising campaign.
Favorite flower? Camellias are my and my daughter’s favorite flower. When I was a child, my grandmother’s yard was full of them. A yard filled with camellias just feels like home to me.
