Meet Erica Tomasch of Serene Green Tropicals Boutique

Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Tomasch.

Erica, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I got into plants years ago, and what started as a hobby quickly became a huge part of my life. As my collection grew, I found myself becoming especially passionate about rare and unusual plants. To help support my hobby, I began selling plants online and shipping them to collectors across the country.
Over time, that small side venture grew into a loyal customer base, and I was propagating and growing more plants than I ever imagined—all from my home. While I loved connecting with customers, having people shop from my house wasn’t always practical. When a space became available in a local building housed in a beautifully repurposed old pickle factory, it felt like the perfect opportunity. The building is home to more than 20 small businesses, creating a unique community of local entrepreneurs.
Today, my shop is about much more than selling plants. My goal is for people to walk into the space and feel like the weight of their day gets a little lighter. I believe everyone should be able to enjoy plants, so I carry options for every level of experience—from easy, beginner-friendly plants to rare and collectible varieties for seasoned enthusiasts. Whether someone is buying their very first houseplant or adding a dream plant to an established collection, I love helping plant parents learn, grow, and succeed so they can enjoy thriving plants for years to come.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road. One of the biggest challenges has been growing a small business during a difficult economy, when people are more cautious with spending and costs continue to rise.

I’ve had to stay flexible and adapt by adding products customers were already asking for. That includes isopods for both pets and bioactive reptile enclosures, reptile-safe vivarium plants, and even Blue Death Feigning Beetles as a fun novelty pet. Expanding in this way has helped keep the business moving forward during slower periods.

Despite the challenges, the support from the community has been incredible, and seeing customers come back and succeed with their setups makes it all worth it.

We’ve been impressed with Serene Green Tropicals Boutique, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business is focused on creating a space where people can confidently explore plants and nature, whether they are just starting out or already experienced plant parents. We specialize in pet-safe plant options and take time to help customers choose the right plants for their home, lifestyle, and even their animals.

What really sets us apart is that we don’t just sell plants—we support people after they take them home too. If someone is struggling, they can reach out and get help and advice on what might be going on with their plant. We want people to feel supported, not left on their own after a purchase.

The shop also features a variety of educational and interactive animals, including a tegu, chameleons, mantis species, green keel lizards, and more. These animals are part of the experience and help spark curiosity and learning.

We also offer a “critter experience,” which takes place when the store is closed. This is a private one-hour session where guests can meet and interact with a variety of reptiles, hold them, and ask questions. We’ve hosted homeschool groups, Montessori programs, and families, and it’s been a great way to make learning hands-on and memorable.

More than anything, we’re proud that our space is welcoming to everyone. Whether someone is here for plants, animals, or just to learn something new, our goal is to make them feel comfortable, supported, and inspired.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
One of the best things I’ve learned is that mentorship and networking don’t always start formally—they usually grow out of genuine connection. For me, it’s been most effective to simply show up consistently in the spaces where I already care about what’s happening, whether that’s plant communities, small business groups, or local events.

Being open, asking questions, and not being afraid to admit what you don’t know has gone a long way. Most people are surprisingly willing to share their experience when you approach them with curiosity and respect. I’ve also found that supporting other small businesses and building real relationships, rather than just trying to “network,” naturally leads to mentorship-type connections over time.

Locally, being part of a shared small business space has helped a lot too. When you’re surrounded by other owners, you end up learning from each other just through everyday conversations.

Overall, what’s worked best is staying genuine, showing up consistently, and focusing on relationships rather than formal titles like “mentor” or “networking.”

Pricing:

• Critter Experience $15 per person minimum of 3 people or $45
• Plants $12-200+

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/serene.green.tropicals?igsh=MXhsZHBtemJneWx1cw==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1FrcPnV3g1/
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@serenegreentropicals?_r=1&_t=ZT-96qlTHViYUI