Sand Dollar Spotlights

Brian Watson and Logan Blake, Carolina Home & Garden

Carolina Home and Garden
At Carolina Home & Garden, a place where creativity and community meet, Brian Watson and his daughter Logan Blake have transformed a simple garden center into one of the Crystal Coast’s most unique destinations. What began in the 1990s as a family-run garden center has evolved into a vibrant event venue, gathering space, and must-see stop for visitors from near and far. Today, Carolina Home & Garden is known not only for its lush plants and artistic displays, but also for the welcoming atmosphere that Brian and Logan work hard to cultivate.

As the business continues to grow, Brian’s vision for the future centers on embracing the region’s evolving identity. “We have to work together to grow the area,” he says. “Tourism has become a big part of who we are, and it just keeps expanding in such a positive way.” He appreciates the beauty of the shoulder seasons—fall, winter, and even Christmas at the coast—when families still gather, explore, and experience the charm of the Crystal Coast in a different light. For him, tourism keeps the business fresh and forward-thinking. “We love to be unique and different and give people a reason to come the next time.”

Logan sees that impact too. Visitors from across the country—and even across the world—find their way to Carolina Home & Garden. “People from Europe and all different parts of the world visit,” she says. “They tell us ideas from where they’re from, or they talk about wanting to bring a place like this back home.” Hearing their stories and seeing their excitement reinforces the space’s role as both a community hub and a memorable destination for travelers.

Together, Brian and Logan have built more than a garden center. They’ve created a place where creativity thrives, families connect, and visitors discover something new each time they come—a reflection of the welcoming spirit and growing energy of the Crystal Coast.

If you work in Carteret County’s tourism industry and would like to potentially be featured in
our Sand Dollars Spotlight, please contact us at sanddollars@crystalcoastnc.org.