Today we’d like to introduce you to Nerissa Mamaril.
Nerissa, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Although I grew up with plants in the home and flowers in the yard, once I had my own home I had no idea how to take care of plants! I simply regarded my houseplants as decor instead of actual living things. Eventually, houseplants would die a slow death in my house. Back then, I did not take the time to learn about the basics of houseplant care. I was also knee-deep in my career as a Speech Language Pathologist and being a mother to my babies and toddlers!
As the seasons of my life shifted, I began gardening with succulents shared by my mother from her garden. The low-maintenance nature of succulents and their ability to multiply from cuttings left a lasting impression on me. The bare plots of dirt in my yard slowly became full, lush succulent gardens. Soon after, I decided to give houseplants another try. I definitely appreciated the life that plants brought to the interior of our home. YouTube, Google and podcasts were quick and easy ways for me to learn about plant care. I started with a few plants from the grocery store, then one by one, as my houseplants not only survived but continued to thrive, my plant collection grew.
Plants and gardening have consumed my life and home in so many positive ways. Sharing succulent cuttings with friends or just perusing over the succulents in my yard- these are simple pleasures I will never tire of. Helping friends rehabilitate their sad houseplants is an act of service that truly brings me joy.
When my husband found the converted horse trailer for sale in April of 2022, the idea of purchasing it and turning it into a mobile plant shop was a crazy one that I was willing to chase- as long as I had my family’s support. Although I have been working in the medical field as a Speech Language Pathologist for over 21 years, running a small business around my passion for plants just seemed like something I needed to try! We nicknamed the horse trailer ‘the lily pod’ after my mom, Lily, who has been a mentor to me in so many ways.
From hobby to passion and now to small business, my journey with plants is ever-evolving. My plate is full, but I am making room for all the joy that lifesoulgarden plant shop brings.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I have fully acknowledged, from day 1 of launching my small business, that I am on a learning curve. There is so much to learn and understand about owning and running a small business. Big dreams, small business, and hard work- it all goes hand in hand. And so I realize that I need to be patient with myself and continue to do the work necessary to keep following my passion.
Balancing my time and energy – between this business, my family, my home, and my primary career- has been a challenge that with trial and error, I am constantly figuring out. Although this is my small business, I actually prefer to call it a ‘family business’. My mobile plant shop would not be where it is today without the support of my husband and kids, my parents, and my closest friends.
I recognize there are plant shops popping up everywhere, but I truly believe in the law of abundance- that there is enough love, opportunity, and light for everyone. Whenever I feel the weight of comparison, I focus on the idea of community over competition. The plant people community, whether online or in person, is honestly made up of kind, generous, helpful, and supportive people who uplift and cheer me on unconditionally!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Lifesoulgarden is a unique mobile plant shop experience. Using a converted horse trailer, I set up my plant shop at local farmer’s markets, craft fairs, pop-ups, and other events. I specialize in houseplants and succulents, ceramic pots and planters, and other plant care accessories. Other services include plant styling, plant care consults, custom orders, and plant workshops.
I believe that love is in the details! This business has become my creative outlet, so whether it’s packaging plants for gifting or setting up my plant shop display, reflecting my aesthetic is really important to me. I value bringing quality plants to my community and I strive to offer unique plants that one might not typically find at a big box store. Creating one-of-a-kind succulent arrangements, often using succulents from my garden, is something that I hope sets me apart from other plant businesses. Adding greenery to someone’s environment through plant styling always leaves a big impact. Helping people and plants thrive again through plant care consults is so very rewarding. Teaching children, adults, or seniors through workshops with succulents and plants are experiences that promote the joy that plants bring!
Connecting with others in my community is the best part about having this plant shop. Engaging in conversations with clients about their plant successes and woes, learning new things about plants from others, and hearing updates about plants that customers have purchased from me- these are the connections that expand the joy in my life.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I am an introvert but will happily introduce myself and readily talk to anyone about plants!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/lifesoulgarden/
- Facebook: http://facebook.com/lifesoulgarden
- Other: http://linktr.ee/lifesoulgarden
Image Credits
Nerissa Mamaril
