Denise Garcia: A Palm Coast Resident Rooted in Community.

Palm Coast Local's Forth Business Insider Features Denise Garcia: A Palm Coast Resident Rooted in Community.

At 14, Denise Garcia never imagined that a part-time job at Burger King would be the first step in a journey that would take her across the country, shape her passions, and ultimately lead her to a life deeply rooted in community and nature.

Denise comes from a family with Cuban and Kentuckian roots. Her mother from Cuba, and her father from Kentucky both in search of a better life. Growing up in Miami, Florida, she was raised with strong values of resilience, hard work, and the importance of community with strong principles that would guide her through every chapter of her life.

It was at that Burger King where she met Robert, a young man with ambition and a kind heart. Their connection was instant, and soon after, Denise found herself not just in love, but on a path that would change the course of her life forever.

Years later marriage to Robert meant a life of movement. As he climbed the ranks, eventually becoming a Vice President at McDonald's, their growing family packed up and moved every four years, crossing six different states. Each new home brought new perspectives and joys, shaping Denise as she raised her family—from the sun-soaked landscapes of California to the crisp mountain air of Denver, Colorado, then to the bustling city life of Naperville, Illinois. Denise would then find herself close to her Miami roots in Tampa, Forida.

In Miami, Florida, after retiring from her 15 years at Burger King with her last position as the First Women District Manager she took on the challenges of entrepreneurship and opened a flower shop called 'Blooming Babes' where Denise deepened her love of flowers, making arrangements while learning the business side of the floral industry. Denise's love of plants and flowers grew while citing her grandmother’s love of Africa Violets that sparked her unknown passion as a young girl.

But It was in Needham, Massachusetts, during one of their relocations, that Denise experienced a pivotal moment, this was where she discovered her love of connecting with nature. During her four-year stay, she met a woman who introduced her to a world she had never known before, the world of Garden Clubbing. What started as a simple introduction quickly became a life-changing passion. Joining the Garden Club in Needham opened new doors she never knew existed, immersing her in a community that shared her love for nature, horticulture, and the art of gardening. The vibrant landscapes, the changing seasons, and the deep-rooted appreciation for horticulture within the club ignited a passion that would stay with her.

Enjoying her love of nature, Denise dedicated her time to local gardening initiatives. Her very first competition she won 'Best In Show' Blue Ribbon award at The Boston Flower Show, while leading garden tours in the community. She was thriving, embracing the joy of nature and her life while sharing her passion with anyone who felt the same. 

Just as she was excelling in this chapter, the call came—it was time to move again.

Denise had always understood relocating was part of their lives, yet Needham had left an imprint on her heart. For the first time, she longed to put down roots—to find a permanent place where she, and her family could always return. Denise's final destination as a family landed them in Orlando, Florida. It was during this stay the decision to find a permanent place to call home was found.

That place turned out to be Palm Coast, Florida.

Palm Coast was not new to Denise. In 1994, her father had discovered this hidden gem, he made it his home where he would build Dolphin Cove. Over the years, Denise and her family would visit often, always making that familiar right turn off I-95, crossing the bridge to the Hammock Beach Area, where they found peace and joy in the beaches, fishing, and boating. Dining at the Atlantic Grille at The Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa became a tradition, a place where they could relax and savor the coastal beauty. It felt like home before it even was.

When the time finally came to settle down, Denise and her family agreed—Palm Coast was home. They found their perfect home in Island Estates, an exclusive, tranquil community surrounded by nature. With her husband retiring from his position, he embarked on a new journey, forming his own business with partners from Burger King and McDonald's that still took him across the country. And Denise? She wasted no time diving back into her passion, becoming an active member of The Garden Club at Palm Coast.

A Leader in the Community

Since 2014 Denise has been an active member while recalling a memory she chuckles at. "I couldn't wait to get involved and at the very first meeting they were asking for a Spring Festival Chair, I raised my hand and said 'YES' I will take on the Committee."

Now, with her two children grown, her husband still traveling for business, Denise has taken on a leadership role as President of The Garden Club at Palm Coast since 2023. Having already made her mark in Palm Coast, she is widely revered and recognized for her volunteer work in the community.

Bringing the Community Together

One of Denise’s proudest achievements as part of The Garden Club at Palm Coast is the Annual Spring Garden and Plant Sale Festival, a beloved community event for 12 years and counting. Under her leadership, with other dedicated members the festival has grown significantly, attracting:
Plant growers from all over, offering a diverse selection of trees, herbs, succulents, and tropical varieties
Home show crafters and artisans, Fun activities for kids with a vibrant celebration of gardening and community spirit

The Garden Club at Palm Coast festival has become a highly anticipated annual tradition, bringing people together and further solidifying their role in Palm Coast’s vibrant community with 149 current members.

"Our Club is not just about gardening" Deinse shared, "we're about coming together to help each other and community initiatives when called on. You don't have to be a gardener to join. Just have a love of giving back when you can. That's what we do, only in the form of plants and nature."

A Heart for Friendship and Community

When asked what she loves most about Palm Coast and The Garden Club at Palm Coast, Denise’s answer was quick and sincere:

"The friendships I have made through the years, and I love being able to welcome new residents and members," she shared. She continued with heartfelt passion, "Others in my past opened doors for me with just a welcoming smile, I want to do the same by offering a friendship to anyone who needs or wants a place they can feel welcomed."

A Legacy Still Blooming

Denise Garcia is more than just a leader—she’s an inspiration. Her journey from a 14-year-old working at Burger King in Miami to the heart of Palm Coast’s gardening community is a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of embracing life’s unexpected turns.

Through The Garden Club at Palm Coast, Denise helps cultivate not just plants, but a sense of belonging and purpose for so many others. While earning her Master Gardener certification, she also dedicates her time as a Director for FC3 and Assistant Director for District VI of The Florida Federation of Garden Clubs, following previous leadership positions within the organization.

Her volunteering efforts extend far beyond gardening. Denise has been actively involved in various community initiatives, serving with organizations such as Hammock Dunes Association, Friends of A1A, Island Estates Homeowners Association, and active member and volunteer for the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs, District VI. If Denise happens to call on you to volunteer, sponsor or become a vendor, consider it an honor to be asked.

Denise’s story is a reminder that the seeds of our future are often planted in the most unexpected places—
even in a Burger King at 14.