05/30/2026
So, I am officially closing down the Budding Gems brick-and-mortar location.
And that's okay.
I'm feeling a little emotional about it, but I think that's because I cared. I put a lot of heart, soul, passion, time, energy, and love into this project.
What started as something to keep me busy during COVID while my travel career was temporarily sidelined turned into something I never could have imagined. I've met incredible people, worked with amazing kids, built wonderful relationships, shared a lot of gardening knowledge, and learned far more than I ever expected along the way.
It has been challenging. It has been rewarding. It has been an adventure.
But the truth is, Budding Gems did exactly what it was supposed to do.
It connected me with my community, allowed me to share something I love, created opportunities I never would have had otherwise, and proved that sometimes it's worth taking a chance on an idea.
These days, I've happily returned to the travel industry, another career I genuinely love, and I'm excited about where that path is taking me.
The website will remain online, and you may still see the occasional post from me, but things will be pretty quiet around here moving forward.
To everyone who attended a workshop, bought a plant, trusted me with a garden project, sent their child to a program, stopped by the shop, or simply followed along—thank you.
I'm incredibly grateful for the support and for the opportunity to share this adventure with all of you.
Happy gardening, everyone. 🌱
