Meet Trailblazer Kalyn Caballero

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kalyn Caballero.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I wasn’t always a plant lady. In early 2016, I was still new to Arizona and decorating my new home with my trusty fake plants from IKEA. I had many dead plants in my wake from years prior, but I figured I could try again with some air plants from a local plant shop. Which I proceeded to kill.

But I didn’t give up! I did some research, tried again, and began making decorative hangers to place them on my walls. Friends and family took notice, and I sold a batch to them on Facebook. I debuted locally with my mini “Tilly Boards” in the swag bags for the Creative Tribe studio launch, and they were a hit! A few months later, I began selling at local farmers’ markets, and my business continued to build from there.

I continually research plant species and the best care techniques, and I’m now one of the go-to sources for air plants in town, as well as for my simple, handcrafted displays. Air plants are fun to decorate with, and I enjoy designing new, modern options for my fellow plant ladies and gents.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has definitely not been a smooth road! I’ve always been a creative person with lots of ideas, so I’ve had to work hard to narrow them down and focus on a few at a time. I’m also not a numbers gal, so taxes and budgeting are not my favorite. I’ve learned to hand that stuff off to my new accountant, which has decreased a bit of the stress. Some of the best advice I’ve been given, and have acted upon, is to delegate your least favorite tasks to others. Focus on your strong points and entrust the rest to the professionals. Just because you can do everything, doesn’t mean you have to. I’d rather spend a bit extra to have my taxes done correctly, than pay even more down the line to fix a mistake.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Palm + Pine Design Co. – what should we know?
Palm + Pine Design Co. has become one of the top sources for air plants in Tucson, and many of the species I offer are harder to find. I do extensive research to ensure I am providing the best care instructions to my customers, especially in our desert climate. I also use wood, leather and metal to create sleek, modern displays to show off these fun plants that don’t need soil to survive.

Aside from being a woman business owner, I am also a military spouse. I’m proud to have created a career that can move with me, but it also adds a level of impermanence and instability that I constantly have to consider in future plans. But as long as I am here, I love seeing repeat customers, who come back to add to their collection or give some as gifts. And some of my favorite moments are when I meet complete strangers who are already familiar with my business name and product. It’s my proof that I have moved beyond selling to family and friends, and have created a viable brand that people love.

Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
Just get out there and meet people! Attending workshops and seminars has been amazing for me and my business. I would stay afterward and strike up conversations with other creatives and business owners, and some of those people are now my good friends. We are each others’ sounding boards, focus groups and cheerleaders, and I know I would not have come this far without their advice and support!

Pricing:

• Air plants range in price from $2 to $50, depending on size and rarity.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.palmandpinedesign.com
• Email: palmandpinedesignco@gmail.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/palmandpinedesignco
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/palmandpinedesignco

Image Credit:
Kalyn Caballero

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