Today we’d like to introduce you to Steven Crafton-karnes
Hi Steven, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Steven, Alec, and Tyler are a poly triad who discovered their love for plants during the COVID pandemic. Like so many, the pandemic reshaped our lives in unexpected ways. With quarantine and remote work becoming the norm, we found ourselves spending more time at home. Two of us transitioned to working from home right away, and what used to be breaks spent chatting with coworkers in the breakroom became moments for folding laundry and tackling household chores. The uncertainty of the world outside amplified our anxiety, and we started to view our homes not just as shelters, but as refuges—a safe place to retreat.
That’s where plants came in. They became a source of peace and purpose in a time of uncertainty. Plants made us feel grounded, and they turned decorating into a joy rather than a chore. My first plant was a Golden Pothos, bought from a big-box store with no instructions—just a tiny piece of paper with a sun logo. I crossed my fingers and hoped for the best. Not long after, I had filled my living room and kitchen (the two rooms with the best light) with plants.
As we experienced the benefits of plant care firsthand, it became clear that others could benefit from this too. We realized how easy and rewarding it could be to bring plants into our homes. The idea for “Plant Daddies” was born. We weren’t the only ones noticing the plant boom; other cities were seeing a rise in plant shops, too. We visited many of these stores, but something always felt missing. We spent weeks and months brainstorming how we could take this idea and make it our own.
What you’re seeing now is the result of all that thought and passion. Plant Daddies of Atlanta is our personal take on the plant shop experience—combining the best elements of the stores we loved, adding our own spin, and creating a welcoming, inclusive space for the plant community in Atlanta.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Today, we’re honored to provide the only queer space in Cherokee County. We hold this responsibility close, recognizing that, as three cisgender white men, we walk through this world with privilege—especially in a conservative community. However, many of our customers do not share this privilege. We proudly display the progress flag above our store, and despite having our flag vandalized twice, we continue to replace it with even larger ones. While there are some in Cherokee County who may reject us or believe we don’t belong here, we remain committed to fostering an inclusive community where everyone is welcome.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Plant Daddies of Atlanta is a unique plant shop and community hub that’s all about bringing people together through a shared love of plants. We specialize in creating an inclusive space for plant lovers of all backgrounds, identities, and experience levels. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting to explore the world of greenery, we’re here to help you find the perfect plant for your home or office and offer guidance along the way.
What sets us apart is our commitment to community, inclusivity, and accessibility. We’re proud to be a queer-owned business that actively fosters a safe and welcoming environment for all, and we’re dedicated to supporting local growers and artisans. Our plant collection is curated to suit a variety of tastes, from easy-care houseplants to more unique and rare finds, and we love helping our customers find plants that will thrive in their spaces.
What we’re most proud of is the community we’ve built. Plant Daddies of Atlanta is more than just a store—it’s a place where people can connect, learn, and grow together, both literally and figuratively. We regularly host workshops, plant swaps, and events to foster connections and provide education.
Above all, we want readers to know that Plant Daddies of Atlanta isn’t just about selling plants; it’s about creating a space where everyone feels welcome and empowered to nurture both their plants and themselves. Our goal is to make plant care accessible and enjoyable for everyone while building a diverse, thriving plant community in Atlanta.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Join us on social media and stay up-to-date on all our events, including plant bingo, workshops, and vendor markets!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.plantdaddiesatl.com
- Instagram: @plantdaddiesofatl
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/plantdaddiesofatl
- LinkedIn: @plantdaddiesofatl on palmstreet
- Youtube: @plantdaddiesofatl
- Other: @plantdaddiesofatl on tiktok
Image Credits
Photos from Plant Daddies of Atlanta
