about

Hi- I'm Caroline and I own and operate Caroline Cultivates (CC, for short). While the dream of owning my own business is not new, the idea for CC is. Plants and gardening have been an integral part of my life since childhood. Some of my earliest memories are those of gardening with my father in the shade garden at my childhood home.

In 2018, I began working in the restaurant industry at 19 years old, as a cashier, at a locally owned spot in Downtown San Diego and eventually worked my way up to being an Executive Chef. Through my work there, I gained an absolutely different perspective on all that goes into growing produce through talks with our various suppliers and their farms. But that wasn't enough, I needed to know it for myself. Just before lockdown in the spring of 2020, I built 3 raised garden beds outside of my studio apartment (without *direct* approval from my landlord) and got to work. I frequented the nursery nearest to my apartment (shout-out Hunters Nursery), picked their brains and brought their knowledge back to my own home.

Beginning work at a locally owned greenhouse in Minneapolis in the first half of 2022, I had finally gotten my foot in the door and began learning another side of caring for plants - the business side. While working there, I worked in the retail, transportation, maintenance and shipping departments.

Aside from my "professional" life, I am an addict in recovery, a fiancée, a pet parent of 4, a 2nd generation immigrant, a daughter, a sister, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, a sponsor and a neighbor. I mention this because... well... I'm human. I believe that our world is meant to be lived in community with one another. The only way our community grows is through being transparent, honest, willing and open-minded.

My love for plants comes from a place of wonder. They teach me patience, peace, relief and how to accept my accomplishments and failures. Through CC, I hope to bring that peace and serenity into every home I possibly can. And, making sure I can do that in the most efficient and accessible way. I believe that plants are healers and I believe that they have the opportunity to change our lives for the better. They provide structure and responsibility. I know (from science) the very real ways in which plants can enrich our lives. They are proven to bring relief to indoor spaces, reduce stress, and improve air quality. Think about the last walk you took: was it around a lake, through the woods, in a park? How did it make you feel? Why did you take that walk? Humans and nature are inherently connected. Creating space for greenery in your home, for me personally, gives me that peace, that breath of fresh air, that connection that only nature can provide us. I hope I can help you cultivate a piece of that in your own home. I welcome you on your journey and hope to serve you along the way.

Love and Light,

Caroline