We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ileana Canada a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Ileana, appreciate you joining us today. What’s been the best thing you’ve ever seen (or done yourself) to show a customer that you appreciate them?

I truly appreciate my customers and how supportive they’ve been. To show my gratitude, I include little extras in their orders. Such as care instructions, tools to help them check soil moisture and watering, cute plant-themed stickers, a handwritten thank you note, and even rose quartz healing crystals. I feel that these small things make a big impact on someone and can take something from simple to extraordinary.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My name is Ileana but I go by Ily. Hence, the name “Ily the Plant Lady.” I am a San Diego native. I grew up in South Bay San Diego, right next to San Ysidro. I’m currently based out of Chula Vista but serve the entire county of San Diego and beyond!

So, I think there are a lot of people who might ask, “What is a succulent designer?” I’m like a florist…but I use succulents and plants to design arrangements for special occasions and gifts. Sometimes I incorporate florals in my designs too. I want people to know that succulents make great gifts just like floral bouquets do…and they last longer! ;)

I also host DIY workshops where people can get their hands a little dirty while learning how to make their own succulent creations. For example, DIY succulent arrangements in cute planters and terrariums in glass bubble bowls, and a succulent bar where people get to pick a pot, a plant, plant it, then decorate it. I have them at select venues around San Diego and also do private workshops for special occasions and corporate events. They are a really fun and unique activity to incorporate into any event. You can find all of my scheduled workshops on my website under the Events section and can book a private workshop there too.

I’m all about bringing beautiful, quality products and service to my customers.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

Word of mouth. I’ve had many people tell me that I come very highly recommended to them for workshops which makes my heart smile. I’ve also had people who’ve received arrangements as gifts from someone else who have reached out to me and then ordered arrangements to gift to their friends and family.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Customer service is a major priority to me. I want to make sure everyone I encounter has a memorable and excellent experience with me and my business. Whether that be visiting my website or taking a workshop in person. From start to finish, I want them to feel that they’re truly getting what they want and love the experience. That’s what builds trust and a good reputation. Which in turn leads to more referrals and potential customers.

I also feel that the quality of my work is first-class. I only use the finest selection of curated materials for my customers. I think that helps sets me apart from others in the same market.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ilyplantlady.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/ilytheplantlady
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/ilytheplantlady
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ileana-canada-2ab607209/
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/ilytheplantlady

Image Credits
Four Lane Photo – for the main photo of myself holding the plants.