Shop Spotlight: Geometry Gardens & Glasswing

Oct 02, 2024

Photo by AJ Ragasa for Glasswing

At LBE Design, we’re proud to partner with small, independent shops that share our passion for thoughtful, functional design. One of our very first retail partnerships was with Glasswing in Seattle, where Tassy Give serves as Plant Director. As co-owner of Geometry Gardens in Brooklyn, she continues to inspire through her thoughtfully curated spaces. To celebrate six years of partnership, we’re excited to spotlight Tassy’s journey and her two shops, which reflect both her creativity and her deep connection to nature and community.

What does a typical day look like for you between Glasswing and Geometry Gardens? How do you balance running two inspiring spaces?

My mornings start with Geometry Gardens in Brooklyn since New York is three hours ahead. Even though I’m based in Seattle, I handle the day’s admin, orders, and planning remotely. Afterward, I focus on Glasswing, where I’m more hands-on with design work, site visits, and installations. Geometry Gardens is focused on plants and fresh flowers, while Glasswing offers apparel, home goods, and plants, with some overlap in vendors, making the process a bit smoother.

Photo by Tristin Turner for Geometry Gardens

How do you decide what to stock in your stores? What’s your approach to curating and merchandising products that reflect your aesthetic and values?

Both stores have a collaborative approach to buying—our team’s input is invaluable in discovering items that excite and inspire a diverse range of customers. We prioritize small-batch, handmade items, particularly from minority- and women-led businesses. Our experienced teams bring product knowledge and a great eye for design, creating thoughtful spaces that reflect both the dynamic energy of Geometry Gardens and the modern, grounded aesthetic of Glasswing.

Photo from Glasswing Greenhouse

You recently launched a new gallery in New York. Could you tell us more about it?

Yes! Geometry Studio is part of Geometry Gardens. We converted what used to be a separate floral shop into a gallery space to showcase art with nature-focused themes. We plan to host seasonal art shows, workshops, and community events there. It’s been a dream project, and I’m excited to see it come to life.

Photo by Tristin Turner for Geometry Gardens

What’s your favorite part about being a shop owner?

I love inspiring a sense of wonder in people. When customers discover a flower or plant they’ve never seen before, there’s this spark of excitement. It’s a reminder that nature is a part of us. Creating spaces—whether for homes, commercial clients, or in our shops—where people feel connected to nature is what keeps me passionate about this work.

Photo by AJ Ragasa for Glasswing

What are some of your favorite local spots?

In Seattle, I love Taylor Shellfish for fresh oysters, and Café Suliman in Melrose Market serves the best eggplant dish. In New York, I’m often at Devoción for coffee and pastries, Aurora and Misi for pasta, and Dokebi and Samurai Mama for amazing Asian cuisine.

How do you think small shops like yours contribute to the community?

Small businesses play a vital role in creating personal connections and offering calming, inviting spaces. Even though it’s tough right now, I believe people appreciate and value their presence. Customers can support local shops by purchasing gift cards, visiting frequently (even if just to browse), and spreading the word.

Do you have a go-to LBE Design product?

It’s hard to choose! The Rancho pots are favorites for their handmade aesthetic and warm hues, while the Solid Good cylinder pots are loved for their colors and functional design. The Revival pots will always have a special place in both shops—they were the first LBE products we introduced and are truly timeless.