Today we’d like to introduce you to Aubree Hibbe.
Aubree, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Like so many passion projects, it all started as a hobby. Maybe even genetics. I’ve been a plant lover all my life. My grandmother was president of her garden club and my earliest memories of my mother are of her planting and weeding. I didn’t fall too far from the tree (pun intended). I propagated succulents as a kid, collected air plants and fuzzy cactus, and well, I’m pretty much doing the exact same thing today, just a little bigger. This all took a turn for the business side once friends and family took notice of my terrariums. I guess I have a knack for arranging. My favorite terrariums showcase the oddball succulents and cactus that may look a bit strange or goofy on their own, but when paired correctly, become showstoppers. Around this time, I went back to school. I wanted to make some cash with flexible hours so I could study and attend classes.
Becoming my own boss seemed like the perfect way to do that. I made terrariums when I could during the week and sold them at farmers markets on weekends. I did end up finishing that program, but not having to use it, the business took off! With that said, running your own small business is not perfect. There are ups and downs seasonally and obviously some insecurity, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. It’s how I’ve connected with my community. Terrariums are not just a creative outlet anymore but a way for me to meet new people and keep up with the people who have supported me from the beginning. I’ve seen kids group up while selling terrariums at the Pinecrest Farmers Market for over four years. I’ve seen families grow and be able to be a part of peoples lives. I’ve been able to teach people about plants and life and responsibilities and I could not be more thankful for being able to do what I love every single day.
Has it been a smooth road?
I started this business with zero business experience. So, obviously, this wasn’t easy. I had no idea what an EIN was or how to pay my sales tax. But where there’s a will, there’s a way. I asked questions, made phone calls, and was able to get my little booth into one of the best farmers markets in the city. I’m not going to pretend to have it all figured out because I don’t. I learn as I go. I still ask questions, make phone calls, and ask for help and advice. I have a feeling that’s not going to end any time soon! I was lucky enough to have people believe in my product and that is what keeps Acorn Country going.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Acorn Country Terrariums story. Tell us more about it.
I’m a terrarium maker. I make cactus and succulent arrangements in glass containers. Over time, I’ve started making and selling a variety of other products but it all comes down to low maintenance house plants styled in a way you won’t see very often. There are quite a few people who make terrariums here in Miami but each of us has a very individual style. It’s hard to put into words how I go about choosing and arranging plants. Usually, I feel the weirder the better. I also go for practicality and longevity with my product. My goal is to make a quality product that’s also unique.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
I plan on continuing to participate in farmers markets in the future. It’s such an amazing way to connect with the community and showcase your product to new clients. The more people physically see your product, the better your chances they will share it with others. Nothing beats good old fashioned word of mouth. Eventually, my dream is to open my own shop and be able to teach terrarium and plant workshops.
Contact Info:
- Address: Pinecrest Farmers Market 11000 Red Road Pinecrest, FL Sundays 9am- 2pm
- Website: www.acorncountry.com
- Phone: (786)537-7124
- Email: aubreehibbe@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/acorncountry/
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