Today we’d like to introduce you to Neicy Wagner Geis.
Neicy, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’ve always loved plants. Ever since I watched my mom stick toothpicks into an avocado seed, I was fascinated with how things grow. Not to say I’ve always had a green thumb but it’s definitely something you can develop if you work on it. Feel like I’ve lived a million different lives/careers but I’ve always been creative and my interest in putting pretty things together landed me a job in a local floral shop. I learned so much while working there and a lot about running a small business, which has always been my dream. I saw an opportunity for a more sustainable form of gift-giving in the way of plants and succulents and decided to make my move. I started by renting a booth at Sunnyside Musicfest in September of 2018 and it just took off from there, I opened my brick and mortar space 2 months later and it’s been non-stop ever since.
Has it been a smooth road?
It’s been pretty smooth so far, however, one challenge I’ve had is having a place to store inventory. I was conservative and started with a small space, which I absolutely love, but storage is definitely an issue. I just tell myself I’m in NYC and marvel at the glorious amount of space I have! Honestly, though, it makes for a very quaint experience but I’m sure in time, I’ll outgrow my tiny shop and be ready to expand.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
My favorite thing about owning a plant shop is the relationship I’ve built with my customers and neighbors. I truly love people and seeing them walk away happy with their new plant friend totally makes my day. They often seem surprised by my level of customer service and I think that’s where I really shine, I’ll help choose the right plant for their conditions, pot it on the spot and even walk it to their car. I just love getting progress pics to see how they’re growing in their new home and always encourage clients to text me if they have any questions.
People love to reach out and I think they enjoy feeling connected to the store long after they’ve made their purchase. It comes naturally to want to care for a plant but many people don’t know how and I feel this step gives them a comfortable place to start. They know I’m only a phone call away and happy to help them succeed with their new plant. Many of my customers enjoy the fact that they can come in to grab a gift on their way to a special event and I’ll whip up a succulent planter or houseplant based on the decor or occasion. You can be sure no one else is going to show up with the same gift!
What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?
I guess that would be the decision to go brick and mortar. It’s tempting to play it safe by running an online shop from home but I’m proud I took a chance and decided to invest in myself. I think we all struggle with self-doubt and sometimes it’s hard to take the leap and put yourself out there but trust me, it’s totally worth it! Once you focus on what you really want, the universe has a way of opening up and making it happen for you. I’m so glad I took the opportunity to create something that I really love and I learn more about it every day. I’m proud that I’m evolving as a business owner and constantly learning about the trade and ways to make connections with people. You do have to be a little fearless to run a business and can’t let little setbacks slow you down. Always forward, never back!
Contact Info:
- Address: 3785 Grove Street Denver, CO 80211
- Website: www.tigerlilygoods.com
- Phone: 3038755518
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/tigerlilygoods
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/tigerlilygoods
- Other: Tigerlily Goods
Image Credit:
Amanda Baker
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