Picture a beautiful warm spring in Harlem, New York. A breath of life visualized as the flowers and trees began to regain their strength and vibrancy. Focus on a matriarch and her grandkids at their family home, making their way to their grandmother’s garden.
They call her Tamami. Not all of them are excited to be wrung deep in soil and dirt, except an ever-curious and deeply invested granddaughter Serena. While her family saw it as work, Serena appreciated mother nature and gardening with Tamami. It always felt like her part in fostering care to the Earth.
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She would continue to learn and cultivate her talent with plant care, soon leaving New York and discovering more natural regions like Florida and California. Now, she is planting roots with her business and bringing greener pastures with Golden Leaf Operations.
Serena believes that more exposure to plants in our daily lives is necessary. Supported by many plant biologists, having plants at home can help us in many ways; reenergize the mind, purify the air and of course bring a tranquility that we experience with nature outside.
“We need plants to breathe, we EAT plants. Plants deserve more respect in my mind. Their form and their function,” Serena says.
Her journey to Florida didn’t spark anything new to Serena. She always knew she would be a part of the plant community but never thought she would be teaching others.
“When I did my first workshop, Kiss of Leaf, I didn’t know what I was going to say and how it was going to go. Speaking and presenting in front of people can make me nervous but I remember that I want people to walk away with knowledge. When that takes over then I’m totally in my element.”
Many attendees of this same workshop found the experience very enlightening. Serena hosted a group of 40 people, custom building terrariums with one another. I got to enjoy the wine package with my ticket purchase and some light snacks along the way. Serena walked around the room attentively, providing reassurance and answered all questions. Where she may have felt nervous, but I felt nothing but good times with great people.
“I envision my company to the likes of Hilton Carter. He is a plant interior designer that recently broke a partnership with Target. His work represents the kind of intention I have with my gardeners. Folding it into your daily routine and lifestyle,” said Serena.
And she’s just getting started. With Golden Leaf Operations now launched, Serena has a calendar for her workshops and services. This in addition to her mission of giving back to the community.
“As a business, I wanted to make sure that I give as much as I need and want. I am working with senior centers and homes, hosting free workshops to the residents. It reminds me of being around my grandmother but now I’m the one teaching and cultivating. Full circle,” added Serena.
Become a gardener with Serena by attending her monthly terrarium workshops and watch out for more to come.
Golden Leaf Operations x Kiss of Leaf
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