04/10/2026
Hi, friends! I wanted to do the whole intro thing. I’m Kristen, owner of The Swan. I started this plant business in 2017, took a few other opportunities, and ended up back here, ready to hang with you at a plant bar.
I’ve lived in Avl/Swannanoa since 2014 and I’m originally from Illinois. I’ve grown up in hospitality since age 13 and went to school for fashion marketing in Chicago. During that time I discovered my love for graphic design, and taught myself how to dig deeper into those skills. I worked as Head of Art & Design at Burial Beer Co for the better part of the last decade and created statement jewelry through my other business, .hollow.hills. All of these ventures and skills have brought me here, along with my love of houseplants & hospitality.
I’m a cat lover, elder millennial, lover of all things vintage, and admirer of good space. I love branding and design, reading suspense books in a day, and thrifting. I 🩶 Caesar salad, a minerally white or chilled red wine, and I love a good outfit with a badass pair of pants.
I believe all humans deserve respect regardless of status, heritage, race, or gender identity. I believe we can do better as a society, and a lot of it starts with connecting with one another. I hope to create a space that nurtures that and supports things I’m proud to stand behind.
I aim to create a space that is filled with love and intention, authenticity, and makes you feel welcome. A place that offers you a beverage whether you’re looking for a glass of wine, a Low/ No ABV Bev, etc, without making you think too hard about it. I want to offer things that expand your experience but don’t feel intimidating; whether it’s the wine list or plant offerings, everything should feel easy & inviting.
I can’t wait to meet you in person, show you a pic of my cats, and pour you a drink. Thank yall so much for being here through each messy, imperfect, and beautiful step of this journey - I appreciate it more than you’ll ever know. I’ve dreamt of this for a long time and the fact that’s it’s finally happening is so exciting and I’m so happy to share it with you.
