Today we’d like to introduce you to Lakeisha Jones.
Lakeisha, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I wish that I could say that my love of plants began at a young age but I honestly struggled with plants when I first began my plant journey. I killed a few plants before I found my footing. Once I did, I became obsessed! I learned everything I could about plants and their needs. As I was growing my plant collection and constantly pointing out plants in movies or on tv, my daughters began planting the seed that I should start a plant store. I knew years prior that I wanted to be an entrepreneur but not knowing what I wanted my niche to be I never began the process. Time passed and the risks became greater but in the back of my mind, I knew what my calling was.
I started an Etsy store where I had the idea of creating fabric plant pots because I also love decorating and could never find plant pots that could fit my aesthetic. My Etsy was keeping me busy as I also held a full-time job in corporate America that I dreaded every day. Along with Etsy, I was in various plant groups buying and trading rare plants.
One evening I saw a post on Instagram about the Beltline Marketplace and applications being accepted. I thought I had nothing to lose and applied. Shortly after I ended up quitting my job and decided to pursue my dream of owning a plant store and soon enough I got the call that I was 1 of 6 businesses selected to be part of the Beltline Marketplace. From here, I have been establishing my name and business in the Atlanta West End community.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Let me begin by saying I trust the process. Things have aligned for me in such a way that I can’t doubt that I haven’t made the right decisions. Running a business is a lot of trial and error if you don’t have the prior knowledge of doing so. It hasn’t been smooth but I would not consider any of the bumps a struggle – but a learning lesson.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about PinkPothos?
I specialize in easy-care, low-maintenance plants. When talking to people about my love for plants I would always hear people say that they kill plants and do not have a green thumb. I get so disappointed to hear that because plants are so awesome and make a space feel like a home. I have decided it would be best for me to not just sell someone a plant but to educate customers about their plants. I talk to each customer and determine which plants I would recommend for their lifestyle and home conditions. No need to buy a high-maintenance plant when you do not have the necessary conditions to maintain it. I also offer plant care, repotting, & consulting services.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Take risks while you are young. It is a time where it is okay to learn, fail, and try different paths out.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.pinkpothosatl.com
- Instagram: @pinkpothosatl
