Chantal VanderWielen is shown with a variety of succulent plants which are waiting to be transformed into a treasured gift. Courtesy Photo

MAXVILLE – If you are looking for a unique gift to celebrate a special day or a special person, then Chantal VanderWielen, proprietor of Chantal’s Succulent Oasis in Maxville is worth checking out. The business has a selection of succulent plants and arrangements as well as a limited selection of house plants which can be used to create an oasis of green in your home or for gift giving.

Succulent is a type of plant that has thick, fleshy leaves or stems that store water. This adaptation allows succulents to survive in a dry environment with limited water. Succulents come in a wide range of shapes, sizes and colours. There are several varieties like cacti, echeveria, crassula, sedum, kalancho, haworthia, aloe vera and sansevieria.

“I started this business out of a passion for succulents and a desire to share that passion with others, with my journey beginning in July 2024.” commented VanderWielen. She continued “I love the beauty and resilience of those little plants” explaining how she enjoys assisting clients in bringing the “natural elegance” of succulents “into their homes and lives.”

VanderWielen mentioned the uniqueness of each product is ensured as it is created for the individual “with love and attention to detail.” She continued how she creates “handcrafted cement pots” which are designed specifically for succulents, contributing to the individuality of her product. There is a variety of gift ideas for clients to choose from, including “live succulent gift boxes”, personalized arrangements and succulent party favours” which are “carefully selected for each person’s taste and budget.” Workshops on arranging succulent plants as well as their care are offered to clients either at her “charming old rustic sugar shack.” or a mutually determined location.

“I absolutely love the creativity and freedom that comes with running my own business.” commented VanderWielen, continuing how she enjoys “bringing my own unique ideas to life.” When asked about challenges faced in running her own small business, VanderWielen commented on the importance of being flexible.

She noted how customer feedback and responding to suggestions is an important part of running a business. Upon learning that clients were interested in becoming more knowledgeable about succulent care, VanderWielen began holding workshops on succulents, something she hadn’t considered in the original business plan.

“In a typical workshop you’d learn the basics of succulent care, from watering and lighting to soil and propagation. Then you’ll get creative and take home your very own succulent arrangement carefully crafted with your choice of plants and decorative rocks. You’ll leave feeling inspired, relaxed and confident in your new gardening skills with a beautiful arrangement to show for it.” said VanderWeilen.

When starting a new small business, she mentioned there is a lot of “uncertainty and unpredictability” in this undertaking. Challenges include future planning, ensuring the administrative side of the business is kept up to date and availability to respond to client requests in a timely fashion are important. She mentions there is a lot of dedication, hard work and long hours needed for the business to succeed. “It’s not always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding.”

More information on Chantal’s Succulent Oasis can be found on its Facebook page.

 

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