As a small-town girl from Minnesota, my journey into the world of horticulture began in an unexpected place: the local golf course. It wasn’t just about the free rounds of golf; it was the serene mornings sunrises, the earthy scent of fresh-cut grass, and the quiet company of local wildlife that truly captivated me. These early experiences sowed the seeds of a lifelong passion that would take me far from my Midwest roots.
After high school, my path led me to a local nursery and land developing company, where my interest in horticulture blossomed. I began taking horticulture and turf classes, eager to learn all I could. Yet, as much as I adored the Midwest, I knew the short seasons would never suffice. Love and opportunity would eventually pull me southward, to the lush landscapes and relentless summers of South Texas.
Landing an internship near my then-boyfriend’s (now husband’s) parents, I fell in love with the vibrancy of southern life. This led me to a role at a country club south of Houston, where I broke barriers as the only female assistant superintendent. Though the environment was challenging, my determination never wavered, leading me to eventually embrace my true calling as a horticulturist.
Creating beauty through flowers and gardens not only became my profession but my expression of creativity and love for nature. This passion flourished into a successful landscaping business, which my husband and I nurtured together, achieving remarkable milestones like becoming the seasonal color specialists for one of Houston’s premier subdivisions and caretakers of a breathtaking 2.3-acre private estate.
Our endeavors even took us to a private island in the Caribbean, where we were tasked with enhancing and educating others on the beauty of horticulture. Despite facing uncertainty in 2020, our business thrived as we connected more deeply with our local community, forging lasting relationships through our shared love for the outdoors.
As time passed and life’s rhythms changed, I found myself pondering the future of my horticultural journey. It was during this period of reflection that I recognized a consistent thread in my life: no matter where I was, I sought out the beauty of gardens, my phone full with the photos of flora I encountered. It was then I realized my next chapter: sharing these experiences and my love for horticulture with you.
I invite you to join me as I travel this beautiful, botanical world, from my humble beginnings in Minnesota to the vibrant gardens that have colored my journey. Together, let’s explore the wonders of horticulture, finding inspiration and joy in the earth’s bounty. Thank you for following along—I promise you a journey full of the most stunning creations!
