Today we’d like to introduce you to Rita Lunceford.
Hi Rita, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born in Ukraine and grew up in Belarus, but my summers were spent back in Ukraine, helping my grandmother with her huge garden. Those days were filled with digging potatoes, harvesting watermelons, and learning the value of hard work and patience. That connection to the land and the joy of nurturing plants stayed with me as I grew up.
My career began in accounting, but life as a military spouse, with frequent moves, made it difficult to build a traditional career. When we started having kids, I knew I needed a path that was both flexible and fulfilling. In 2020, during the challenges of the COVID pandemic, I turned back to my roots and started a cactus and succulent business, focusing on rare and unique plants.
That year was transformative in many ways. My father passed away from lung cancer just one week before my daughter was born. It was a time of immense grief and joy, and it gave me the determination to create something meaningful—not just for myself, but for my family.
What began as a love for plants has blossomed into a thriving business offering rare and unique varieties, like the Aeonium Pink Witch, Spiral cactus and other hard-to-find succulents and cacti. Every plant I share is a reflection of my passion for growth and resilience. Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship isn’t always easy, but both roles inspire me to build something lasting and beautiful. For me, it’s not just about selling plants—it’s about sharing a piece of the joy and connection I felt all those years ago in my grandmother’s garden.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been a completely smooth road—finding balance is always a challenge. Being both a mom and a full-time business owner means juggling a lot of responsibilities. My days are a mix of cooking meals, organizing activities for my kids, and running a business that demands my full attention. There are times when the lines between work and home blur, and it can feel overwhelming trying to give 100% to both roles.
One of the biggest struggles has been time management. There are only so many hours in a day, and balancing the needs of my family with the demands of growing a successful business often requires careful planning and sacrifices. For example, there have been moments when I’ve had to delay launching a new product because my family needed me more at that time, or I’ve worked late into the night after putting my kids to bed to make sure I meet a deadline.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
My business, Grow Margo, is a family-owned brand specializing in rare and unique cacti and succulents. We focus on offering plants that stand out—like the Boobie cactus or Spiral cactus—curating a collection for those who appreciate the beauty and diversity of nature. Our goal is to bring the joy of gardening into people’s lives while making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned plant enthusiasts.
What makes Grow Margo stand out is that it’s a one-person operation. I personally handpick each plant, ensuring that every piece meets the highest standards of quality and rarity. I also personally pack every order, adding a personal touch that reflects the care and dedication behind my business. This hands-on approach allows me to maintain a connection with my customers and ensures that every order is prepared with love and attention to detail.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Here is a list of books I recommend:
4 hour work week
Rich dad, poor dad.
Buy back your time.
Blue Ocean strategy.
I focus on business mindset books when I have time to listen to them 🙂
Contact Info:
- Website: www.growmargo.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/growmargo
