Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Sherer.
Julie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve always had a deep love for greenery, but it began to flourish when I moved away to school and was able to decorate my own space with houseplants. I graduated from FSU in 2020, with a degree in Marketing. I worked for several women-owned small businesses throughout the years.
I’ve unintentionally only ever worked for women-owned small businesses. I knew I wanted to do something for myself, but I didn’t know exactly what or how. I started flipping furniture, which was nice to express creativity but wasn’t fully for me. One day, as I was watering my houseplants, I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. What would I be happiest doing? Then, it clicked. I’d be happiest spending my days hanging out with my plants and being surrounded by the beauty of nature.
I remember while I was a student at FSU, I’d drive six hours home for long breaks with my plants safely buckled up in the back seat! The attention to detail and love that goes into caring for my plants translates into what I’ve created with Groovy Growing. Plants bring me so much joy, and now I’m on a mission to simply create joy in the community. I hope to make everyone who steps into my booth feel welcomed and appreciated and leave feeling better than when they arrived.
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?
Although I do markets all over Florida, my nursery is located in North Fort Myers which was recently hit by Hurricane Ian in September 2022. This was only two months after I started my business. I had spent the entire summer of 2022, building a greenhouse and growing my inventory.
Hurricane Ian destroyed the entire structure and damaged many plants. This was a setback; however, I was grateful I wasn’t the only one experiencing hard times. It was almost helpful or encouraging to go through that with my community.
Many of us are still trying to get back to normal. I finally just put up a new shade house this week!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Groovy Growing is a mobile plant boutique that specializes in tropical houseplants. Our brand combines greenery with an eclectic or bohemian style.
You’ll find a wide variety of wood and wicker pieces that complement the plants nicely. There’s always something new and unique in the booth. Many of the pieces, such as the terrarium glass are thrifted and reinvented. So they are one of a kind! I enjoy being able to express my creativity through nature.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I believe I have a very type-A personality, and I’ve always been like that. I remember playing office and being “in charge” back in the day. Sometimes it feels like I’m still a kid and nothing has changed.
My dad owned a landscaping business while I was growing up. So I believe I got my love of plants and nature from him. I remember spending a lot of time outdoors with him either in the pool, playing soccer, hammocking, cooking out, and more.
Find Groovy Growing across Florida at farmers markets, plant festivals and more. Their monthly schedule is always posted on their website and social media pages!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://groovygrowing.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/groovy.growing/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groovy.growing/
Image Credits
Fabiana Solano
