Planting Roots: Shirley Howald’s Story at The Bloom ‘n Bucket Country Greenhouse
Meet Shirley Howald, the dedicated owner and operator of The Bloom ‘n Bucket Country Greenhouse, a charming seasonal greenhouse located just south of Calmar, Alberta. Shirley’s journey into the world of horticulture began as a tribute to a dear friend and community elder who previously owned the greenhouse. After her friend Edna’s passing, Shirley, who had completed her career in human resources but felt too young to retire, decided to revive and continue the legacy of this beloved local greenhouse.
What sparked your interest in opening a greenhouse?
In 1994, my family and I moved to a farm and began building our new life. As we settled in, I became close friends with a wonderful neighbor, Edna Fink, who owned a greenhouse. We spent many hours together, and I was inspired by her passion and dedication. Edna often joked that she would sell me the greenhouse and teach me everything she knew, though she never had the chance as she passed away in 2012. In 2017, we moved and reassembled her beloved greenhouse on our property. In 2018, we opened for our first season, honouring Edna’s legacy and providing quality, locally grown plants to our community.
What do you love most about the work you do and being a business owner?
I love the fact that I’m constantly learning. With no prior horticultural experience, there was a lot to learn, and it was a steep hill to climb. But I enjoy challenging myself to learn and grow. As an older woman who started her entrepreneurial journey later in life, I appreciate that this work keeps me moving, healthy, and connected to the community. It’s incredibly rewarding to provide something valuable to the community.
How do you envision your business making a difference in your community or industry?
Our business contributes to the community in several ways. We collaborate with an agricultural charter school, offering programs that engage students with hands-on learning experiences. At the end of the season, we donate all of our plants to the Leduc & District Food Bank, which they distribute as needed. Additionally, we support local events like hockey tournaments and silent auctions by donating gifts, gift certificates, and hanging baskets. We strive to stay in touch with the community and give back in meaningful ways.
How did you hear about Business Link, and what specific services or support have you received from us?
I first heard about Business Link online and booked an appointment to meet an advisor. After visiting your Edmonton office, my eyes were opened to the wealth of resources available. Through Business Link, I accessed the Digital Economy Program. This program connected me with associates who helped design and launch my website and develop an email marketing platform. These services have been invaluable in enhancing my business’s online presence and customer engagement.
How has your website affected your business since its development?
The website has generated a lot of interest among my customers. It has allowed me to showcase the variety of stock and different types of plants we carry, which many people were not aware of. This has led to increased questions, phone calls, and visits. It’s crucial for us to provide knowledge and information to our customers, and our new email newsletter helps share timely gardening tips and advice in a non-intrusive way.
What was your highlight of working with Business Link?
The highlight for me was working with a young man who helped develop my website. He had an incredible ability to understand my vision and made valuable suggestions that enhanced the site. Our working relationship was open and collaborative, which made the process enjoyable and successful.
Can you share any upcoming projects or initiatives you are working on?
I am most looking forward to welcoming return customers and ensuring they leave with healthy, thriving plants. My goal is to sell happiness and help my customers succeed in their own gardens. Continuing our relationship with the food bank is also important to me, as is finalizing and launching our email campaign to provide ongoing gardening tips and advice.
As a small business owner, what do you love most about running your business in Alberta?
Running a business in Alberta is fantastic because of the supportive community. I always say I have the best customers. The community has wholeheartedly supported our greenhouse through social media shares, shout-outs, and word-of-mouth recommendations. It’s humbling and heartwarming to know that they appreciate the resurgence of a community greenhouse in their area.
What would you recommend to a small business thinking about using Business Link’s resources?
I would highly recommend that budding entrepreneurs contact Business Link. The programs, advice, and resources they offer can save you months or even years of learning and research. They have been incredibly supportive and kind, and I cannot say enough good things about the team at Business Link.
With her passion for plants and commitment to the community, Shirley Howald is not just growing a business but also nurturing a legacy of green-thumbed goodness at The Bloom ‘n Bucket Country Greenhouse.
Shirley Howald
Owner, The Bloom ‘n Bucket Country Greenhouse
