Meet Our Expert Garden Center Team in Franklin, NC
At Winding Stair Gardens, our success comes from the passionate people behind the plants. Our team brings decades of combined experience in native plants, sustainable gardening, and mountain horticulture. Whether you’re a first-time gardener or an experienced landscaper, our knowledgeable staff is here to help you find the right plants and the right advice for Western North Carolina gardening.
Greg M. & Stacy B.,
Owners
Stacy and Greg are the founders behind Winding Stair Gardens, though the farm wasn’t exactly part of the plan. What started in 2010 as a search for a mountain weekend retreat- Stacy wanting elevation, Greg wanting a river- eventually grew into a working farm, a thriving nursery, and a beloved Franklin institution. Their passion for sustainable agriculture and genuine love of this mountain region is the foundation everything else is built on. Learn more about their journey here.
Amanda Chappell,
General Manager
Amanda has been with Winding Stair for years and serves as our General Manager. Originally from England, she’s one of the most passionate native plant advocates you’ll ever meet. Amanda leads our team’s commitment to plants that thrive in the Southern Appalachian climate while supporting local pollinators and wildlife- with expertise ranging from mountain-native perennials to sustainable garden design.
Greg Mason,
Nursery Manager
Greg brings a degree in Landscape Architecture and over 20 years of nursery and horticulture experience to Winding Stair Gardens. As our Nursery Manager, he oversees plant selection, inventory, and outdoor operations. His deep knowledge of what thrives in the mountains of Western North Carolina and North Georgia makes him an invaluable resource for homeowners and professional landscapers alike.
‘Panda’ Drozd,
Retail Manager
Panda is the friendly face at the heart of our retail experience at Winding Stair Gardens. As our Retail Manager, she oversees our indoor shop- from thriving houseplants and handcrafted pottery to farm-fresh eggs, local meats, and homemade goods. A creative soul at heart, she brings the same thoughtfulness to her work that she does to her writing and her ongoing study of American Sign Language.
Maria,
Plant Lead
Maria is our longest-serving team member and one of the most knowledgeable people you’ll find! She specializes in matching plants to your specific conditions- shade, full sun, a streambank, or a privacy screen.
Rivette,
Production Lead
Rivette oversees our plant production program, helping grow our next generation of plants. She’s a dedicated native plant enthusiast with deep expertise in species that support our Appalachian ecosystem.
Bee,
Retail
Bee is happy to assist you with your purchases, and as one of our longest-tenured members, has seen Winding Stair grow from our initial roots into the beloved institution it is today.
Dallas,
Maintenance
Dallas makes certain that things are hammered, or dug, or buried, or painted, or sanded. When something breaks or needs moving, Dallas and the tractor are on it.
Josh,
Grounds & Delivery
We’re a pretty big facility- Josh makes certain everything stays nice and clean, and handles our big delivery orders around WNC and North Georgia.
Madison,
Plant Care
Madison takes care of our plants, ensuring their well-loved and ready for purchase.
Leah,
Graphic Design
Leah creates our lovely signs, brochures, illustrations and print materials that we use.
Lisa,
Accounting
Lisa handles our bookkeeping, and keeps a million numbers in her head (and on her computer).
Eric,
Marketing
Eric manages our advertising, email lists, social media accounts, and website updates.
Levi,
Nursery Associate
Levi monitors watering and plant care across the garden center. He’s eager to help with whatever crazy task gets thrown his way.