Age: 30
Neighborhood: University Heights
Current Job: Founder and CEO of Native Poppy
Background: After about three years of bundling garden-style bouquets from a counter she shared with Communal Coffee in North Park, Gill replanted her beloved floral shop in South Park earlier this year. The name Native Poppy stems from California’s state flower—having grown up in San Francisco, she says, “I fancy myself a California wildflower.” After college, dissatisfied with her career options, Gill made a list of what made her happy and which gigs checked those boxes. “Turns out, I had a passion for flowers.” Customer adoration for her whimsical blooms has grown just as quickly: She’s opening another Native Poppy outpost in Solana Beach next month, just in time for “everyone’s favorite,” peonies, to be in season.
Fashion Philosophy: “It’s a balance of looking put together but being as comfortable as possible.”
Personal Style: “I’m all about classic pieces that will outlast short fashion trends: high-waisted jeans—I love a button fly!—band T-shirts, cozy sweaters, and my clogs or pink Vans.”
Her Picks:
“Did I mention I like gardening and growing flowers? Floret Seeds are from a farmer and florist in Washington state, and she has the best varieties in the most beautiful colors.” Starting at $4/pack
“To help balance my stress levels, I take the adaptogen Brain Dust daily with my coffee.” $38, Shop Good, North Park and One Paseo
“I live by candlelight after dusk, especially with candles from Often Wander, which are hand poured in San Diego by my friend Sarah. The Fig and Lilac is my favorite, and you can recycle the containers by taking them to her store for refills at a discount!” $20–$28, Ocean Beach
unknown
“I first discovered Sekala bath salts at my friend Jina’s salon, Leo. The Rose Scrub smells like heaven.” $28, North Park
“Free People’s Abby Clogs are easy to walk in and make me feel incredibly put together while staying casual.” $99
“Madewell’s coverall jumpsuit is the cutest work outfit, and the dried rosebud color simply epic. You can even get them custom embroidered!” $148
“When I need inspiration from other powerful women, I pick up [Design Sponge founder] Grace Bonney’s In the Company of Women. $35, Gold Leaf, South Park
SamErica Studios
“My entire staff and I are enrolled in Native Poppy’s Wild Flower Club Membership, which allows you to get flowers at a discount every week and other perks,” like access to their pop-up dinner party on April 4, with a flower-themed menu. $75/month
My favorite face cleanser of all time is Beaute Nouveau’s Lavender & Lemon Cleansing Milk. It leaves my face feeling so soft and clean.” $28, Little Italy