Meet Michelle Lao of Bonsai Unlimited

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Lao.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
The genesis of Bonsai Unlimited initially started on a somber tone. I had received news that my mom was diagnosed with late-stage Pancreatic Cancer. I felt so shattered. I couldn’t imagine life without her. The weeks that followed, I thought about milestones that she wouldn’t be there for and what I could do to help my parents. I quickly took a proactive stance in achieving one particular milestone that my mom would live to see.

A bit about my family’s background: my parents are Bonsai artists. My dad is widely referred to as a Bonsai Master. I grew up with this ancient art form surrounded by Bonsai Artists from all over the world. Since I was a child, I would always accompany my mom at Bonsai shows and sell alongside her. As the internet grew, customers began inquiring if we had an online store.

With my mom’s impending state of health, it became clear I needed to create a website that would alleviate my parents’ workload and offer our customers more accessibility to our products. With my parents’ blessing, I created a brand and e-commerce site that would complement their existing business while adding my personal touch to it.

Through that tumultuous time, I am happy to share that my mom had a misdiagnosis. She is cancer free! Although the cancer scare was my impetus in creating Bonsai Unlimited, the business quickly grew to become a source of happiness.

Bonsai Unlimited allowed me to spend more time with family, collaborate with friends, and connect more with my community. It is more than just an e-commerce store; it speaks to the heart of creating and growing together.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I don’t think there are any smooth roads paved with success. All the bumps in the road are testaments to the strength of your journey. Being a new business owner is wrought with challenges. You find yourself donning different hats.

I was transitioning from a medical and boxing industry into the world of e-commerce and Bonsai. I had to quickly acquire new skill sets that I hadn’t possessed. I learned how to do product photography, digital marketing, merchandising, logistics, and business operations to overcome those start-up challenges.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Bonsai Unlimited – what should we know?
What do you do: I own and operate Bonsai Unlimited’s online store as well as foresee the creative direction for the brand. I also do a lot of behind the scenes work for our garden, coordinating events, and helping with day to day operations.

Tell us about your business: Bonsai Unlimited is a family operated online retail store that aims to further spread the presence of Bonsai art through commerce and community. We specialize in Bonsai pots, tools, and supplies for all levels of Bonsai artists. We have our very own exclusive Japanese tool line called Mugen. We source most of our pots from Tokoname, Japan and Yixing, China which are areas famed for their Bonsai pottery. All our pots are limited releases. We are constantly scouring the globe for our next products.

What are you proud of: We focus on bringing the community together, preserving the Art of Bonsai, and encouraging a younger generation to be involved who may not have had exposure to Bonsai. We really enjoy being able to connect with others through this living art form. It’s incredible to witness many Bonsai artists elevate their artistry with our products.

What sets us apart: Our family run garden, Shisei-En, is one of the biggest Bonsai gardens in Southern California. We have a retail store on-site and run Southern California’s Premiere School of Bonsai called Bonsai Jidai. We have evolved into becoming a community center for Bonsai artists and a destination garden for Bonsai lovers. We attract the Hollywood industry that films on location. They use our products and Bonsais for film and television.

In addition, we are at many of the Bonsai shows and conventions selling and conducting demonstrations. My father, David Nguy, often travels internationally to teach Bonsai and/or judge competitions. My mom, June Tran Nguy, oversees the garden, retail, and also teaches. We run the gamut in terms of operating in the Bonsai world, but most importantly we firmly stress nurturing and contributing to our community. We really aren’t much without them, and it’s important for us to take care of our people.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My heart is smiling at this question right here. I could write a novel about each person because I feel very fortunate to have strong pillars of love and support from all corners of the world. First and foremost, my family is my True North. I heavily rely on my family for their wisdom and experience. All my successes in life I owe to them, especially my momma June Tran Nguy.

The Bonsai community are wonderful supporters of Bonsai Unlimited. Each person has imparted guidance, encouragement, and love. Bonsai Unlimited wouldn’t be much without you. At the forefront is my father, David Nguy, who patiently mentors me and helps me hone my artistry. Special thanks goes to Master Frank Goya, Jaime Chavarria, Master Roy, Soung Shin, Jerry Garcia, and the Bonsai Jidai family.

Outside of the Bonsai community, I’ve had many Mr. Miyagis who empowered me. Adam Stanzak, Gabe Johns, David Clark, Eric Brown, Alex Ariza, Dick Ruman, Jessica and Marcos Velasquez, Tony Jeffries, Kevan Watson, Dr. Zhixin Su, Chen Laoshi, You Laoshi, Tammie Bean and the staff at Marina Del Rey Hospital, Stanzak Family, Huashi, the PD community of Rocksteady Boxing, Box ‘n Burn and Wild Card. Each of the people and places saw the value in me and honored it. They took me under the tutelage and nurtured me. All have rallied behind in full support with each venture that I have embarked upon. I appreciate you all.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.bonsaiunlimited.com
• Instagram: @bonsaiunlimited
• Facebook: Bonsai Unlimited

Image Credit:
Photos by @AdamStanzak

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