Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Smith .
Hi Katie, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
My obsession with antiques started when I was very young. Growing up, I would go to antique stores and garage sales with my parents. My dad and I would spend hours walking through every aisle, looking for treasures. Old things have a history and beauty that have always drawn my interest. My obsession with plants, particularly succulents, began in 2019. I spent hours researching and watching videos online about how to pot and care for succulents. I purchased my first succulent in a little owl pot from a small shop in Washington. From then on, I was enthralled with succulents and cacti.
I attempted my first succulent arrangement a couple of months after buying my first succulent one. I was disappointed with the selection of containers that I found in the big box stores, and then I discovered people were planting succulents in vintage containers. My two obsessions combined! Teacups, depression glass, and vintage metal planters are my favorite to plant succulents in because of the unique style, and I love that I can give new life to old items. I’ve participated in several pop-up markets and craft/art shows throughout my journey with succulent arrangements. I also have a selection of my arrangements in the Room for Art Gallery, located in Downtown Washington. Recently, I’ve begun sharing my passion for succulents through my succulent planting classes. What started as a love for vintage things and plants has turned into a little business.
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?
Over the years, I have lost many succulents along the way. I’ve struggled with watering, proper lighting, and pests. However, I’ve learned much through trial and error, and now I want to help others learn. I have found that my succulents are happiest near a very bright window or grow light, water after the soil has completely dried out (usually at least a week and a half), and near a fan or vent to help airflow. Over the past few years, I have also had difficulties with sales. My first attempt with a setup in a small shop was a failure. I didn’t have any sales. However, I was given another opportunity at Room for Art Gallery in Downtown Washington, and it was a much better experience. Some pop-up markets and art/craft shows have been great, and some have been challenging. I try to learn from each show how to improve. I’m incredibly grateful for the people who have supported and encouraged me.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I plant succulents and cacti in unique and vintage containers. I’m known for using teacups, depression glass, metal cups, and other vintage pieces as planters for my arrangements. I’m most proud of the fact I can give new life to old items that most people don’t have a use for in their homes today by turning them into beautiful pieces of artwork. I strive to make arrangements that are unique, beautiful, practical, lower cost, healthy and have a polished appearance.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
I define success as creating a product that people love, bringing a smile to their faces, and hearing their stories of how well the plants are doing in their homes.
Pricing:
- Most of my arrangements cost between $15-$45.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/gardeninthetea?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gardeninthetea
Image Credits
Nathan Smith
