On this date, you’ll create gorgeous organic art in an indoor paradise miles from city life. Enter the world of flora and fauna and watch feelings bloom.
The Background
PLNTR is a charming plant boutique that’s been a Dupont / Adams Morgan gem since 2020. Husband and wife team James and Caitlin do it all. The shop hosts delightful, quirky nature-based classes and from Wednesday to Sunday, the place doubles as a stunning cafe. Their passion for creating an engaging space can help you grow with someone special.
The Standout Features
Reasons this date earns a green thumbs up:
- Unwind: There’s something so calming about being surrounded by nature. Watch the stress melt away.
- Lasting Memento: Whenever you see your stunning piece of art, you’ll think of each other.
- Intimate Setting: The cozy, welcoming environment and modest class size are perfect for delightful conversations with new friends or just between you two.
- Support a Good Cause: PLNTR offers products from dozens of small, often women-owned local businesses. Here, you help the neighborhood thrive.
- Discounts: After the course, enjoy deals on store merchandise to bring more of the outdoors home with you.
The Experience
Date Lead Up - Planting the Seed
As I climb the iron staircase dotted with greenery, the city falls away behind me. I cross the threshold of the timeless red brick building and I’m transported to a vibrant rainforest. Luscious greens and warm woods cover every inch of the boutique. When I tell co-owner James that I’m early for the class, he offers me my complimentary drink. Then I wander through the store, sipping my non-alcoholic mojito-flavored sparkling water.
Teaming with exotic plant life, the establishment mirrors a paradise. Charming trinkets nestle in between sage-colored leaves. While perusing, I imagine where each item could reside in my home. Each would make a fitting addition. Tucked away in the back, I discover a gorgeous cafe. The impressive scenery elevates the classic coffee meetup into something new and exciting, whether it’s the first or 50th date. Noting the inviting atmosphere, I vow to return for a cappuccino someday soon.
When 5:30pm nears, I sit at the long table adorned with a rich variety of mosses, flowers, and grasses. Soon, my plus one and the other students join me. Once assembled, the class of six becomes fast friends as James pours the wine. While our host ensures each person has the libation of their choosing, he kicks off the evening.
Date Main Event - Watching it Bloom
First, our guide describes our materials in greater detail. I’m happy to hear the dried and petrified plants are maintenance free and will keep their shape. Now, this Framed Moss Art class is one of several offerings. While we plug in our glue guns, he reviews their other courses listed on a nearby chalkboard. From planting a living mushroom that petrifies into a sculpture to making a flower press or your own mushroom starter kit, the choices are endless.
After a few pointers, James urges us to explore the various textures and colors, placing and changing pieces on our boards until we’re satisfied. As my date and I secure plant after plant, we enjoy a delightful chat with the other couples. Everyone agrees that engaging with the mosses, flowers, and other flora has an instant soothing effect. After all, who can’t use more peace in their life?
When I look at the other frames, everyone’s killing it. I put on the finishing touches and admire my masterpiece with pride. I’ll hang it in my new apartment and smile when I see it.
Date Wrap Up - Leaving the Garden
Finally, it’s time to retire the glue guns and say our goodbyes. We exchange pleasant well-wishes with our classmates and gather our dazzling nature collages. We leave with a store discount from taking the class. Bonus! It’s just one more reason to return.
My date and I ponder where to display our creations while we descend the iron staircase. When the warm sun hits our faces, the world is slower, more peaceful, simpler. With this newfound lightness, we glide into the next stage of the night.
The Planning
No need to figure out all the logistics. We did it for you.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for... | Cafe only: ✔ First date Class with or without the cafe: ✔ A few dates in ✔ Steady couple |
| Seasons | Runs year-round |
| Typical Hours | Classes: Tues & Thurs: 5:30 - 7pm, Sun: 11:30am - 12:30pm Cafe: Wed-Fri: 10am - 6pm, Sat-Sun: 11am - 5pm |
| Duration | Classes are 1.5 hours long |
| Cost | $60-65 per class which includes a complimentary drink |
| Website | |
| Address | 1825 18th, St, NW Washington, DC 20009 |
| Transportation | Street parking is available but may be limited. If parking, recommend arriving earlier to find a spot. Closest metro station is Dupont Circle (10 min walk away) |
| Attire | No dress code but wear something comfortable |
| Contact Information | Use their Contact Form |
The Pre- and Post-Date Options
If you want to keep the date going, we have a cheat sheet to guide you to your next destination. You can visit these places before or after your date. Make this list your own. The map shows the PLNTR shop (purple), as well as bonus date options (green) in one place. Before you go, though, always check times in case something’s changed.
- Anju (1 min walk): Modern meets traditional at this stellar contemporary restaurant who’s food is only matched by its stunning interior. Open Mon-Thurs: 5 – 9pm, Fri: 5 – 10pm, Sat: 11am – 1:30pm & 5 – 10pm, Sun: 11am – 1:30pm & 5 – 9pm.
- Lucky Buns (3 min walk): This establishment puts an irresistible twist on the classic American burger. Homemade ingredients and inventive cocktails tip the scale to a “yes” for this place. Open Mon-Thurs: 5 – 11pm, Sat: 11am – 3pm & 5pm – 12 am, Sun: 11am – 3pm & 5 – 11pm.
- Jack Rose Dining Saloon (3 min walk): Rugged industrial iron mixes with warm oak at this timeless whiskey bar and restaurant. From their Tiki Bar to the open-air terrace, there’s so much to love. Open Tues 5pm – 12am, Wed & Thurs: 5pm – 1am, Fri: 5pm – 3am, Sat: 4pm – 2am, Sun: 4pm – 12am.
- The Board Room (8 min walk): Play a free board game of your choice while savoring delectable American cuisine. This spot is pure fun. Open Mon-Thurs: 4pm – 2am, Fri: 4pm – 3am, Sat: 12pm – 3am, Sun: 12pm – 2am.