Artist Feature & Giveaway by The Tropical Garden

"What can I say? I love all kinds of plants. I especially love flowers and plants with an unusual name, fact, color, or shape. I have worked in the horticulture business for over 10 years and have finally decided to branch out on my own."

An Interview with Maria of The Tropical Garden

What drew you to plants?
I guess what drew me to plants was seeing my grandfather work in the garden. I would go to my grandparents after school every day and my grandfather would be working in the vegetable garden. I loved watching him work. I always loved flowers and would get plants from my aunt who was also a great gardener.

How did you discover your talent?
I never thought of myself as talented. I was always curious and eager to learn more about plants. When I make terrariums, I just make something I like and hope everyone else likes it too.

How did the Tropical Garden come about?
I have always dreamed of owning a garden center, but that costs a lot of money to start, so I decided I would start small and open a shop on Etsy.

How did you decide on the name?
I love tropical plants! I hope to eventually expand my listings to include more tropical flowering plants and who wouldn't love to have a tropical garden?

How do you get inspired?
I get inspired by going to shops and looking at different containers (vases, candle holders, etc.) I often find something that I think I can make a terrarium from or it leads m to other ideas. I also love looking at garden books and magazines.

What is your favorite part of your creative process?
I love making stuff and saying to myself that looks cool. It is hard when you spend a lot of time on something and it just doesn't work out, but when it does, it feels great.

Do you listen to music while you work, and if so, what do you listen to?
Yes, I do listen to music sometimes. I really like 80's music and today's hits. I ask my son to play me music while I work. He loves to introduce me to new music.

Who are some of your biggest influences, artistically or personally?
Definitely my mom and sister, they showed me all you have to do to start a business is to have the desire and work really hard.

What are you currently working on?
I have several new containers I would love to make into terrariums when I find the time. I also have some new plants I hope to list soon.

Who would play you in the movie version of your life?
Angelina Jolie - just wished I looked like her.

Describe your work in three words.
Fun, cheerful, smile-worthy.

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