What’s Ya Vibe?, in collaboration with the recent opening of Flowin Café, celebrated Black History Month with a communal, interactive workshop. For two hours on Saturday, Feb. 1, participants were invited to an afternoon of planting, wellness, and creative expression.
Led by Shalandrea Houchen, owner of What’s Ya Vibe?, and Lee Hightower III, owner of Bevida Wellness, plant lovers, artists, and wellness seekers gathered at the corner of 7201 Melrose Avenue for a much-needed escape.
“With everything going on in the world, it’s kind of nice to find community that is equally invested in the spiritual health of our world,” said Becca Davis, a producing fellow at the AFI Conservatory.
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“When I saw the Instagram posting, I was just like, wow, this feels like exactly what I’ve been looking for. It’s artistic, it’s nature-focused, and it’s super into how our souls get nourished.”
The event encouraged guests to engage in hands-on activities that stimulated their minds and spirits. From a guided planting session—where participants potted herbs and flowers—to an expressive painting workshop that invited attendees to tap into their creativity, Plant N’ Flow was a playground for those seeking self-expression. Taylor Calloway, a USC graduate lawyer who attended at her friend’s invitation, Becca, shared how meaningful the experience was for her.
“I love plants. I have a ton at home, but I don’t really get to use the creative part of my brain often. I’m always looking for ways to express creativity because it’s something I’m very insecure about, but I enjoy,” said Calloway.
Flowin Café, the event’s venue, is more than just a coffee shop; it’s an intentional space designed to uplift the community.
“We’re not just making dope lattes,” said one of the café’s partners. “We’re bringing brain-boosting superfood ingredients because we want to promote mental health here. That’s what this is about.” The café’s new ownership is focused on creating a welcoming environment for the extended Melrose community, blending wellness with hospitality in a fresh and necessary way.
Lili Gregory, a mental health therapist who attended after hearing about it from a friend, best captured the event’s spirit.
“I love any space that gives you permission to just be creative and work with your hands,” she said. “It really takes you out of your element, out of your comfort zone. And everyone here has been so kind, so friendly, so welcoming.”
As the final brushstrokes dried and the last seedlings were potted, the impact lingered beyond the café’s doors. More than just a gathering, Plant N’ Flow proved that when creativity, nature, and community come together, they cultivate something far more significant than individual expression; they create spaces for healing, connection, and belonging.
