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Rising Stars: Meet Helen Gutierrez of Miami

Today we’d like to introduce you to Helen Gutierrez

Hi Helen, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
In 2023, our journey and the beginning of Rare Naked Plant Co. sprouted from a deeply personal experience. Struggling with illness and facing uncertain horizons, the healing touch of nature intervened. With each unfurling leaf, plants became not just companions, but catalysts for renewal and resilience. They became the beacon of hope in the darkest of times.

Driven by this transformative power, we embarked on a mission to share this gift with others. Rare Naked Plant Co. isn’t just a business; it’s a testament to the healing power of nature, a tribute to the magic of life. To cultivate happiness and wellness, one leaf at a time, where every plant tells a story of survival, resilience, and growth.

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?
Starting a business while juggling a full-time corporate job was far from smooth sailing. I struggled with finding enough hours in the day to balance work, family responsibilities, and my entrepreneurial ambitions. However, my ability to thrive under pressure and my determination helped me navigate these challenges. In June 2024, I made the pivotal decision to leave my corporate job and fully commit to RNPC.

The success I’ve achieved so far has exceeded my expectations, and I’m profoundly grateful for it. Managing the entire business solo can be demanding, but the support of my loving husband and family and the rewards make every challenge worthwhile.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Rare Naked Plant Co. specializes in rare and tropical houseplants, all cultivated and sourced right here in Miami, FL. Our tropical environment allows these plants to thrive year-round, making them highly sought after across the country.

We conduct our sales exclusively on the PalmStreet app, where you can catch us live every Thursday, Friday, and Sunday at 10 AM. PalmStreet is a vibrant, inclusive plant community, and I always enjoy connecting with fellow plant enthusiasts. As someone with ADHD, I embrace my neurodiverse nature, bringing a unique and genuine personality to my live sales. It’s all about creating a fun atmosphere and fostering a sense of community. As I like to say, “If you’re not here to buy, that’s okay. I’m just glad you’re here to hang out!”

I’m incredibly proud of many aspects of Rare Naked Plant Co., but leaving a stable yet toxic corporate job to pursue my dreams is what stands out most. Facing health challenges taught me that life is fleeting, and I’m committed to living fully and pursuing my passions now. I’ve heard too many stories of people who waited too long to chase their dreams, and I didn’t want that to be my story. My message is clear: pursue what you want in life, regardless of the outcome, because trying is what truly matters.

What sets me apart is my unwavering honesty and transparency with my buyers. Having been a buyer myself before becoming a seller, I’ve experienced the shortcomings of the plant-selling community and strive to offer the genuine, caring experience I wished I had. Whether it’s providing a spark of joy, admitting when I don’t know something, or having straightforward conversations about plant care, I aim to be the supportive presence I needed during my own challenges.

In essence, Rare Naked Plant Co. is more than just a plant business—it’s a community.

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
The quality I believe is most crucial to my success is my unwavering honesty and transparency. My background as a buyer before becoming a seller has deeply influenced this. I experienced firsthand how deceptive and impersonal some sellers could be, so I made it a priority to offer a genuine, caring experience. This commitment to authenticity and connection has been fundamental to building trust and fostering a strong, loyal community around Rare Naked Plant Co.

Contact Info:

Image Credits:
Helen Gutierrez

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