The #1 question we get asked is "What is this place?"
Photosynthesis is a brick-and-mortar synthesizer and flower shop. We came up with the idea after moving to Olympia from Ridgefield, WA. When we lived more rurally, we had space to grow tons of flowers, which was amazing. But we didn't want to raise our kid where we were living, so we moved to Olympia, where Radio had some history of living and playing music in the early 2000s. We don't have space to grow as many flowers here, so we thought, "How can we still be with flowers?" AND we also love music and have played music most of our lives. We thought it would be cool to combine these beautiful things. They just go together. We thought of the idea, and then the name came to us, and we thought we would regret not trying to make the daydream real. We both also just love creating spaces that feel good and have always wondered what it would be like to try to have a little shop/business. We owe thanks to Adam and the rest of the Rainy Day Records crew and the Orca Books folks for supporting us in getting our space.
How long have you been open?
We started building out the space in February 2024 and opened for Arts Walk the last week of April 2024.
Can I buy something from you if it isn't in stock in the shop?
Most likely yes. We are dealers of Moog, Make Noise, Korg, Polyend, Mellotron, Doepfer, Sequential, Oberheim, Tascam, EarthQuaker Devices, Mordax, Bela, Oto, Instruo, and others. Please ask. If we can, and if the dealer has it in stock, we would love to order it for you!
Do you buy used gear?
We buy used gear on a case-by-case basis. If what you have to sell is in good condition and would resell for $400 or less, we may be able to purchase this outright. We also offer consignment on items valued over $400. Our terms for both are the same. We look on Reverb for the last 5 sold of your item and get an average sale price. We pay 65% of that price.
Why are you only open on the weekends?
Our hours are limited because the space is used for Tasha's other job during the week. We may be able to open more days a week soon.
What is your return policy?
We will offer returns on new items within 30 days of purchase. The item must be in original packaging and with all accessories. If the item has been opened and used, there will be a 10% restocking fee.
If your item is in need of repair, we will encourage you to contact the manufacturer if it is within their warranty window and will help with this process if needed.
Used items must be returned within 7 days for store credit or a refund to your payment method.
Guitar pedals can be returned within 7 days of purchase for a refund or store credit. We know every pedal sounds different through every amp...
Do you do repairs?
We don't have time to take in repairs at this time, but we may try to add this service in the future.
Do you offer classes?
Yes. We have had some classes in the shop but recently have started to partner with the library system to offer classes free to the public at the library. We recently had our first class there, with the help of Galen Disston, and are hoping more are coming soon. If you are looking for a one-on-one lesson/tutoring, please let us know, and that may be possible.
Do you grow all of the flowers you sell?
No. We don't have the space to grow all of our flowers. But we do support local farmers and buy only fresh flowers that are in season. We sell dried flowers in the off-season. We prioritize selling only local flowers as a way to reduce the environmental impact created by shipping flowers, to offer the freshest of flowers to you, to support local growers, and to be more in step with the seasons.
Do you do flowers for events?
Good question! It depends. If you need arrangements for a small event such as an elopement, party, or celebration of life, please inquire with us. We are not currently booking large weddings but would love to recommend other florists in town.