We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Feriba Karakoc a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Feriba, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
I found my purpose through a journey of self-discovery shaped by various life experiences. From a young age, I was fascinated by cinema. However, I chose a different path and pursued a major in history. However, fate led me to Los Angeles, where the vibrant film industry awakened my lifelong dream. After enrolling in the film program at Santa Monica College, I not only immersed myself in studying but also discovered video editing which I decided to focus on.
Some of the short films I’ve edited have been screened at national and international film festivals, also during this time I received the Best Editing award from the LA Shorts Awards.
Then I took a break from my video editing career after becoming a mother. Covid-19 outbreak provided me an extra time for transformation on my hobbies and interests. Nurturing plants became a profound source of joy and purpose during this period. As I learned about taking care of plants, I also learn about nature and its balance.
Through the years, I learned so much about plant care and flourished my plant collection. Building connections with plant enthusiasts globally, participating in events, and sharing my propagated plants marked a significant shift. Finally, I established ‘Leafage,’ a venture supported by my husband and son. Now, as I extend my passion through pop-up events, I’ve found purpose in connecting people with the beauty of nature and fostering a sense of harmony in their homes.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I started my journey as a plant enthusiast who has no idea of taking care of plants. Simultaneously, I was navigating the challenges of motherhood with my first child, a completely new adventure for me. Much like my plants, I was lack of an instruction manual for raising a little person. Trusting my instincts, I dove into a self-improvement journey, and soaking up every bit of knowledge available. It’s been a learning curve, and I’m proud to say I’ve turned my ‘brown thumb’ into a thriving green one.
When I choose my plants, I liked to evoke the feeling of being surrounded by greenery, particularly exotic indoor plants with striking patterns. Whether it’s large leaves or different tones of the greenery, each plant shares a common trait—they transport you to an exotic jungle.
What excites me most is the unique energy plants release. People are awakening to the fact that plants are living beings with needs, emotions, and a unique mode of communication. Personally, I curate and care for plants based on their distinct personalities, and I find it essential to educate others about these individual traits. Beyond the sale, I maintain a connection with my clients, encouraging them to reach out for advice or questions about caring their plants. The most thrilling aspect is fostering a community that appreciates the profound beauty and vitality of nature in their homes
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Dealing with plants in business requires special skills and knowledge since they are living beings. Horticultural expertise stands out as a cornerstone, including a deep understanding of the specific needs of diverse plants, ranging from sunlight requirements and watering schedules to soil types and pest control. This knowledge is fundamental to ensure the strong health and vitality of the plants available for sale. The ability to identify and address issues such as diseases, nutrient deficiencies, or pest infestations is crucial, not only for maintaining the quality of the plants but also for effectively addressing customer concerns.
Moreover, proficiency in plant propagation techniques is essential, particularly when dealing with rare plant varieties. I propagate most of the rare plants I sell, and knowing how to propagate through methods like cuttings or divisions is key. This skill not only helps maintain a diverse inventory but also provides customers with a broad array of options.
Looking back on my time as a plant hobbyist, I didn’t know much about taking care of plants at the start. However, viewing them as living beings significantly helped my understanding. Now, I share my plant knowledge through my Instagram to assist first-time plant parents and foster a collective understanding of their needs.
Do you think it’s better to go all in on our strengths or to try to be more well-rounded by investing effort on improving areas you aren’t as strong in?
I believe in finding a balance between going all in on our strengths and investing effort in improving areas where we may not be as strong. My background in cinema and film editing was a significant part of my identity and career, representing my strengths and childhood dreams. However, as I started into the plant business with Leafage, I discovered the joy of trying and embracing new challenges.
While succeeding in our strengths is valuable, I’ve found that being well-rounded brings about a more enriching and fulfilling life. My interest in plants was initially a hobby, but became a testament to the rewards of stepping outside my comfort zone. Balancing my roles in the film industry and the plant business has allowed me to find joy in both aspects of my life, creating a fulfilling harmony.
Investing effort in areas where we may not be as strong opens doors to growth, new experiences, and unexpected opportunities. Leafage not only became a successful business venture but also a platform for family involvement, emphasizing the positive outcomes of diversification.
In essence, my journey reflects the belief that finding balance, investing in new areas, and embracing challenges contribute to a more dynamic and enjoyable life. The difficulties along the way serve as valuable lessons that shape personal and professional growth.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @leafage.la
