Today we’d like to introduce you to Kara Allen.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve always wanted to start my own business. Growing up, my parents owned and operated a wholesale greenhouse growing facility, and I believe that the entrepreneurship spirit was passed on to me.
I grew up in Kansas and helped my parents at the greenhouse each day after school. I learned so much from them about how to grow and care for plants, how to run a business, and how to work hard for what you want. After graduating from college, I spent some time discovering what it was I really wanted to do. I traveled and worked a handful of jobs, but eventually realized that plants truly are my passion, and not just something I was born into. I moved to Kansas City, KS and began working in the horticulture industry again years ago. I had planned on staying in Kansas until I met my husband, who happens to be a Landscape Architect from San Antonio. When we decided that I would be making the move to Texas, I knew it was the perfect time to dive in and finally open that business I had always dreamed about. Tillage is that dream come true.
Has it been a smooth road?
I feel truly thankful for everything that has happened in my life leading up to this point. I’ve definitely experienced bumps in the road, but I’ve tried to learn and better myself along the way.
Although I had always dreamed of owning my own business, I really took over years to process through what kind of horticulturally based company I wanted to open. Once I settled on the idea of a plant boutique, I started developing relationships with people I trusted who understood my vision and believed in the idea. From there, things really started to fall into place. Three months ago, I opened my store and overall, I feel lucky in saying that with a lot of hard work and attention to detail, it has been a fairly smooth start. I try not to take anything for granted and hope to stay prepared for whatever the future may hold.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Tillage story. Tell us more about the business.
Tillage is a plant boutique that specializes in houseplants, pottery, home decor, and custom services. There is a strong focus on plant education and finding the right plant for the right space. We love hearing stories of how much joy it brings our customers when their plants are healthy and growing.
We have become known for our wide selection of plants, and for unique artisan-made pottery. We set ourselves apart by helping people choose plants that work well in their homes and offices, and thrive under the lighting and watering conditions they can offer. There is a plant for everyone, no matter what your environment or skill level might be!
Of all the things we are most proud of, it would have to be our commitment to offering high-quality plants, and supporting artists who work hard at their craft. From the very beginning, we’ve wanted our space to be a destination where people find beauty, knowledge, and joy. We love nature, and we love humans, so bringing them together is the ultimate dream!
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
The outlook of the horticulture industry is great! The idea of growing plants indoors is nothing new, and back in the ’70s houseplants were all the rage, a very similar movement to what you see now. The difference is that, unlike the ’70s, I don’t see the trend slowing anytime soon.
As people, we have a deep-rooted connection to the earth, and with that comes a need for inviting plants into our lives. More and more, people are moving into apartments but still crave nature. Bringing plants indoors fills that need and at the same time brings joy as we watch our plants thrive and grow. Not only do they give us something to care for, but they’re also some of the best artwork you can have in your home. Every plant is unique and there are endless varieties and textures to collect. It becomes a hobby that people hold onto for years and years.
Contact Info:
- Address: 2202 Broadway St
San Antonio, TX 78215 - Website: tillageplants.com
- Phone: (210) 926-8510
- Email: tillageplants@gmail.com
- Instagram: @tillageplants
- Facebook: @tillageplants
Image Credit:
Marc Likes Weddings
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