What is the story behind your company name?
The original name of my company was Frontyard Feast, encouraging people to grow food out loud and proud in their front yards, but people found it confusing and assumed that I didn’t work in backyards or otherwise. Plant Grow Eat was actually the tag line, but it became clear that it was really what my company was all about — the cycle of food, in front and back yards, side yards and balconies — and that it was way more than a tag line! Teaching people that everyone can Plant, Grow and Eat their own organic produce, as well as all of the other physical and emotional benefits that go along with that is the story of Plant Grow Eat.
How did you get started?
I’ve been a gardener all of my life, but it became my profession after I was laid up, again, with illness caused by the stress of my previous career, as well as being so busy that I just wasn’t taking care of myself. So, all strung out on steroids with another bout of stress-induced bronchitis provided the dream, and the next thing I knew, I had a complete vision to execute, which involves taking a huge leap, and I’ll never look back!
Oh wow, I am glad you were able to switch gears for yourself. Do you have a favorite part of the maker process?
I think the favorite part of my maker process is pulling all of the pieces together to see the complete product. I also test new seeds every season, and I’m always trying to make my garden kits as easy and successful as possible — with the goal of making the food-growing process a no-brainer for everyone.
What inspires you to create?
This is easy! I want to save the world, one garden at a time, and I’m going to do it by creating a community of people who also want to save the world by growing their own food and spreading the word to others by their example. When we simplify our lives, use our bodies and minds and get a little dirty, the sky is the limit!
That is great! What is a typical day like in the studio for you?
My studio is my garden. And my garden is my test ground for what I put into every garden kit. Good soil and organic amendments to nourish seeds and plants, non-gmo seeds that have been tested to grow as simply and deliciously as possible, as well as paying attention to the seasons. Every component of a Plant Grow Eat garden kit is tested for optimum growth and health and simplicity — for gardeners of all skill levels and even all ages.
What do you love most about California?
California has everything! Besides the mountains and ocean and desert, we have cool people, excellent industries, from entertainment to cutting edge health and agriculture, fine dining to classic diners and excellent architecture, which is one of my favorite things about Pasadena, along with the beautiful Arroyo Seco and spectacular hills. Can you tell that I’m an LA girl?
What did you miss most about in person events now that events are picking back up again?
I didn’t realize how much I missed people until I started seeing and talking to them in real life again. Zoom and FaceTime were fantastic tools to have during lockdown and quarantines, as well as other online substitutes of varying success, but being able to talk to people is something that I love, especially when it’s about something they’ve made or believe in or that you can pick up or taste…. I think some things have evolved online nicely, like I love online garden coaching, but I’m really looking forward to mixing in-person back in!
Do you have anything special that you will be bringing to Jackalope?
I’m so excited to share my garden kits with people in real life. As well as my branded merch to help get the Plant Grow Eat word out. It’s about getting more people to grow, and showing how easy it can be and how good it is for your mind, body and spirit. And the planet. And for anyone who doesn’t have a yard, Plant Grow Eat salad and herb gardens are perfect for small spaces, whether it’s for yourself or someone you love. A garden is a gift for everyone!
Anything special you would like to add?
When I first started gardening for a living, I dreamed of having a booth at Jackalope, and I’m so excited that my dream is finally coming to life! I can’t wait to see it all come together, be a part of such a great event, and meet and support other small business artisans! Let’s do this!
That is so sweet! We can’t wait to see you in person this November 20th & 21st when Jackalope returns to Central Park, Pasadena.
Where to see more of Plant Grow Eat:
Website | plantgroweat.com
Instagram | @plantgroweat
