MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — A popular resort in Siesta Key is back in business, nearly six months after it was flooded during Hurricane Helene.
The Wildflower Inn officially reopened its doors on Friday.
Nicole Slaten starting her day by officially reopening resort.
“It’s a mix of emotions, but we are excited. We are excited to welcome everyone back,” she said.
This year, guests can expect some possible new activities.
“One of the things we’re thinking about is possibly working with some people in the community, like a yoga instructor, and doing Saturday morning yoga sessions by the pool or wellness retreats. We have enough space to sleep 32 here,” she said.
The inn opened in January 2024 but closed just months later when Helene’s storm surge flooded the property.
“So we’ve gone six months with no income coming into this place,” Slater said.
But the push to rebuild and reopen wasn’t just about income. Instead, their driving force came from the heart.
“The Wildflower Inn was my dad and my stepmom’s vision, so it holds a pretty special place in our family,” she said.
Her stepmother, Courtney, passed away from a diabetes-related illness in 2022.
“Wildflowers were my mom’s favorite, and she always wanted a place that was inviting and brought everybody together — community, connection and free spirit — just very much like she was,” she said.
And that love is reflected throughout the resort, from the atmosphere to the smallest details in each room.
“We want them to remember us, come back, and be part of our Wildflower family,” she said.
As Slaten celebrates reopening the resort, she hopes to see it blossom into something even more special for its guests.
