Rising Stars: Meet Cynthia Owens of Lathrup Village

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cynthia Owens. 

Hi Cynthia, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Plants are my Passion and has been for many years! I have always helped people with their struggling plants and always giving them as gifts. I was asleep one night and woke up to a voice speaking to me saying ” Let the people know what you do” I was very surprised as it Said it again. The voice began instructing me exactly what to do such as put pictures on Facebook along with services you can provide, repotting, trimming, placement, etc. I then wondered what to call it and a Flat-screen appeared with names of businesses scrolling across it, but on the side of the screen the name PlantBiz was flashing and I liked it, so I chose that name. After all that I proceeded to put it all together the next day, being reminded by that voice to Let the people know. 2 hours after I posted my business responses, texts, and messages started coming in and it’s been 2 1/2 years that PlantBiz has been operating. I advertise on Facebook Marketplace and have the opportunity to meet many nice people! 

Alright, 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?
It’s been a pretty smooth road thus far. My only challenge is trying to keep affordable prices for customers. With the economy rising, like everything else, the cost of plants has fluctuated also with the distributors I deal with. I’ve been able to continue with fair pricing and the customers seem to be happy. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am an Information Officer (receptionist) at the church I attend. I enjoy people and love making acquaintances with new people. I attend a large church Greater Grace Temple I’m Detroit. Working there is like working for a corporation. Very enjoyable and you must be professional for the different businesses, companies, and Dignitaries that come through the building. I also handle the care for the many plants that are there. 

We’d love to hear about what you think about risk-taking.
I don’t consider myself to be a risk taker but when I look at what I do with my business some say I am a risk taker. I do my business from my home and many feel that is a risk in itself. As I mentioned before people come from far and near to purchase plants from me because of Marketplace. Some say how can you let strangers in your home? I must say it’s been a pleasant experience. I say “Plant People are Nice people” but I’m aware of what could happen and I Thank God it hasn’t. 

Pricing:

• My prices vary from $10 – $75 I have small-large plants

Contact Info:

• Facebook: PlantBiz