Life and Work with Lauren Fusco

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Fusco.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
When I started ELEPH, I was living on the Big Island of Hawaii just living the dream! I started making succulent magnets for friends made out of recycled Hawaiian woods as a hobby. When more and more people became interested in my tiny island goods, I decided to have a small pop up shop where friends could pick a magnet and choose their succulents. This little pop-up was such a big hit, I knew I had unleashed a creative force I had been dreaming of for so long, but never knew how to execute it. A few months later, I was on a plane from Colorado to Hawaii and had a dream that I would open up my own shop and it would be a “succulent boutique.” I started selling bigger arrangements and before I knew it, I had a storefront! I had never thought about owning my own little shop before! I honestly had no idea what I was doing. I quit all my other jobs to make this a success. Friends came and supported me, helped me set up my shop and drank champagne at my grand opening! A few days after I had my grand opening, my sister passed away. I was lost and confused and eventually after six months, had to close the shop. This didn’t stop me from pursuing my dream, however. I started hosting BIG workshops and would set up an ELEPH booth at art shows, night markets and fun other events around the island. I even created big succulent art installations in people’s homes! Eventually, I entered the wedding world and I knew this was what I was meant for. I was determined to not let my dream slip through my fingers. Fast forward to three years later and my business is still thriving and alive. My fiancé and I moved from the island to my home city of Denver and I have been keeping the dream alive ever since!

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road to where I’m at today has most certainly not been the smoothest and it still isn’t! There are so many challenges to face when building a business from scratch. Challenges can be anywhere from “what do I name my business” to “am I even making a profit?” Sometimes, you will meet people who will challenge you, take your ideas and maybe even tell you that your business will not make it. Don’t listen to them! Trust your instinct and do what you know is right. Never underestimate your worth and everything will work out the way it’s supposed to. There are so many days I feel like giving up, but then I think about the drive and passion that got me here in the first place.

Please tell us about ELEPH Succulent Boutique.
ELEPH Succulent Boutique brings about a unique vision to incorporate color, nature, art and the DIY spirit into everyday life. I enjoy watching someone create their very own piece of living art whether it be by building a terrarium, creating a succulent flower crown or mixing and matching their own pots and plants at one of our succulent bars. I believe art and nature is meant to be experienced by everyone. There is a really great feeling that comes along with nurturing a succulent that you work hard to keep alive. Aside from the workshops, I love incorporating succulents & flowers into events such as weddings, baby showers, anniversaries, etc because what you take home is something that will continue to live! It is a keepsake of sorts that will continue to grow and thrive (if you let it). I love teaching people how to ignite their green thumbs. When you purchase an item from me, you’re purchasing a piece of me! The name “ELEPH” comes from my love for Elephants and my initials, “L.F.” It is my brand, made completely from the depths of my soul and I want people to feel that! Another passion of mine is to collaborate with other female artists and creators. Bringing creative minds together to create something beautiful is not only so much fun but empowering! I’ve made so many life-long friendships throughout this journey.

What advice would you give to someone at the start of her career?
My biggest piece of advice is to be patient with yourself and listen. It is easy to go full speed ahead when you’re just starting out. Mistakes are inevitable, but there are people who have made them before you! If you reach out and keep an open mind, these people will help give you the tools you need to succeed. They will become your biggest supporters! Not everything will always go as planned and you will hit roadblocks. Take a break if you need to. Assess your unique situation and let the answer come to you. Don’t beat yourself up over things you cannot control.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.elephboutique.com
• Email: aloha@elephboutique.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/elephboutique
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/elephsucculents

Image Credit:
Zoe Arndt Photography, Alex K Photography, Michael Christensen, Dawn Sparks Photography

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