Today we’d like to introduce you to Ileana Canada.
Ileana, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I began my succulent collection about three years ago. I received a bunch of cuttings from neighbors and what began with a few potted plants quickly turned my patio into a mini oasis and jungle.
I started creating succulent arrangements and gifting to friends and family for birthdays, teacher appreciation, whatever! Everyone would always compliment my work and say how professional they looked. That gave me an idea…Why not share my work with others and do this as my business? It’s something I love doing, so why not? Thus, Ily the Plant Lady was born!
I’ve been doing this professionally since July 2020 and am so grateful for the enormous response and positive feedback I’ve received. It’s truly a blessing.
Great, 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?
It can be a bit tough balancing it all. I work full time, go to school, and have three children at home. We’re all currently working and doing distance learning at home together due to COVID. So, finding the time to work on my arrangements in between this and that is a bit of a challenge at times. But luckily, I have a supportive husband who helps me balance a bit of the load and I’m able to knock out some orders here and there.
Please tell us about Ily the Plant Lady.
I am a succulent and plant designer. My signature style is creating custom arrangements in super cute and unique planters. I believe that’s what sets me apart from the rest. People send me requests for a particular style of planter; (picture a French Bulldog, Elephant, or Cowboy Boot planter!) that they’d like and I go on a quest to find it. I’m very meticulous and pay close attention to detail with all of my work. And I truly believe people notice that when they see my creations.
I love the fact that most of the time, each arrangement has a special meaning to the person purchasing it. They also make such awesome and unexpected gifts.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
I used to memorize the choreography from all of my favorite music videos. (Think MTV Jams and 106&Park…Janet Jackson, Aaliyah, etc.). I’d rehearse and sing along to them with my friends. We’d then put on little performances for our families. That was fun. Also, in relation to plants…I remember my great-aunt, Alicia, was the master green-thumb in our family. She would always be outside in the backyard watering and tending to the flowers and plants. I think she would appreciate my love for plants.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 619-370-5489
- Email: ilytheplantlady@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/ilytheplantlady
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/ilytheplantlady
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