Hello, I'm Diana...

I'm a graphic designer by trade with a passion for creating. I founded Grow Something to combine my love for plants, photography, and share that passion with like-minded individuals. As an artist, I’m constantly inspired to learn, make, and explore new ideas. Over the years, I've been fortunate and deeply grateful for the incredible support from so many customers. Thank you for being part of this journey.

the beginning. 
Grow Something was created in 2012 when I took a break from my design career. Seeking something more fulfilling, I turned to organic gardening and learned how to grow plants without synthetic fertilizers. Due to my busy schedule as a graphic designer, succulents and orchids were the only plants I could keep alive. Over the years, I experimented with different growing mediums, plant care techniques, and ways to propagate succulents. My success in growing baby plants inspired me to consider selling them as a side gig, and I never imagined it would evolve into a full-time business. I’ve become an urban farm girl! 👩‍🌾  

My business model is unconventional because I don't want to be tied down renting a store in Toronto and paying premium rent while staying open seven days a week. Some might call us 'lazy millennials' who don't want to work, but I believe life is too short to spend that many hours working for someone else! I'd rather focus my energy on growing my business and doing what I love. I truly believe in the mantra, 'Do what you love, and the money will follow.' At the end of the day, growing plants and being creative may not make me rich, but it does pay the bills and gives me the flexibility to do what I enjoy.

For the first six years, I rented my parents' backyard to grow my business. When the pandemic hit in 2020, I moved my operations to my home in South Etobicoke, Ontario. Working out of my parents' property was great because their house was right on the subway line, which made it very convenient for many carless customers. Plus, I got free food and saw my parents often. But I don't miss sitting in traffic on the Don Valley 'Parking Lot' now that I’m working from home!

When you come to visit, you'll find a laid-back, friendly atmosphere, complete with a stroll through my little succulent container garden. And, if you're lucky, you might even get to munch on some berries and rare tomatoes!

 

 
In memory of Dexter❤️ & Dobey❤️