Newlyweds Jade and Dylan Pacifico have recently opened Knoxville’s latest bar, Mother Bar and Gift Shop, which has quickly gained popularity for its unique plant-inspired drinks and inviting atmosphere. The establishment officially opened on October 4, while the gift shop, located upstairs, has been operating since March. This concept was born from their previous venture, Oglewood Avenue Plant Shop, where they noticed a desire for a space where people could linger among the plants and enjoy themselves.
Jade explained that the vision for the bar has been in their minds for quite some time. "The bar has been kind of a dream for a long time for us," she stated. The establishment combines a cozy bar downstairs with a quirky gift shop upstairs, where customers can enjoy a drink while browsing through unique items.
Determined to create a botanical vibe, the couple has designed a menu featuring wines and cocktails infused with floral and herbal notes. "For the upstairs space, we wanted it to be a little bit more interactive," Jade remarked, aiming for a more engaging experience than just a traditional retail environment.
At just 27 and 28 years old, the Pacificos run three businesses together. With Jade focusing on marketing and product procurement, and Dylan managing inventory after leaving his previous career in logistics, they leverage each other’s strengths and experiences. Dylan highlighted the importance of collaboration, stating, "We bounce things off of each other and we learn from each other."
The couple credits their success to the supportive Knoxville community, emphasizing that their concept might not have flourished elsewhere. "The city’s very special with the way that they support small businesses and entrepreneurs in general," Jade said, showcasing their gratitude for the community’s backing.