Erika Chow
Owner / Director of HR / Special Ops
Plant Fam since: Day 2

What’s your favorite houseplant and why?
I love my Santa Rita Prickly Pear Cactus. Its growth patterns are super random and it has the most incredible purple hue.

What do you do when you’re not at Plant?
I work full-time in the non-profit world as a Registered Provisional Psychologist. Kyle and I also love travelling (especially to Oregon) and watching political satire. Also I’m a crazy dog lady.

What can we expect if you get control of the shop’s playlist?
“Heart it Races” by Architecture in Helsinki for some mid-afternoon pep.

Besides @plantshopyyc, what’s your favorite plant-related social media account?
I love @houseplantjournal for their detailed plant care info and incredible timelapse videos showing us what our plant friends do when we’re not looking.

Which of the treats in the Plant treat stash do you have the hardest time resisting?
The guacamole. I will fight you for it.

What phrase or expression do your Plant Fam members know you for?
“Sooo cute” both in earnest and in irony.

Are you a Lake or a Clyde?
Both! I like to hang back and observe, like Clyde. But like Lake, when I get excited, you’ll know it.

Alysa van Haastert
Store Manager
Plant Fam Since: February 2016

What’s your favorite houseplant and why?
I love rhipsalis! I like trailing plants and these ones are so unique, we don’t see them come through too often.

What do you do when you’re not at Plant?
I’m a part time hobby floral designer, photographer and actress. My husband and I have a cat! We love traveling, biking and working on passion projects with his film production company @sixtwosixprod

What can we expect if you get control of the shop’s playlist?
I’d likely choose classical or jazz but that won’t always fly with the fam. But I like the Weepies, Gregory Alan Isakov, Bon Ivor, Coldplay, Kygo.

Besides @plantshopyyc, what’s your favorite plant-related social media account?
@wildernisamsterdam – I’d want to work there if I lived there.

Which of the treats in the Plant treat stash do you have the hardest time resisting?
Sour Soothers.

What phrase or expression do your Plant Fam members know you for?
Asking Kyle if we can put things on sale.

Are you a Lake or a Clyde?
I think I am a Clyde. I love the people I love A LOT and am a bit more shy with most everyone else. Just takes me a little bit to warm up, but I will!

Stacey Bru
Team Lead
Plant Fam Since: April 2017

What’s your favorite houseplant and why?
Philodendrons – They’re quick growing and easy to care for. If you want an instant home jungle, Philodendrons are the way to go!

What do you do when you’re not at Plant?
When I’m not at plant you can find me in the garden, my art studio, or hanging with my dog, Ripley. I sell zines and comics through my etsy shop staceybru.etsy.com, as well as running a local Calgary zine library!

What can we expect if you get control of the shop’s playlist?
Cher.

Besides @plantshopyyc, what’s your favorite plant-related social media account?
@womenwhofarm

Which of the treats in the Plant treat stash do you have the hardest time resisting?
Anything salty, especially chips.

What phrase or expression do your Plant Fam members know you for?
Anything about bugs. I’m the go to girl for all of your horticultural bug questions.

Are you a Lake or a Clyde?
Clyde? How do you know?

Brooke Cupelli
Team Lead
Plant Fam Since: September 2016

What’s your favorite houseplant and why?
It’s a tie between a Button Fern and a Blue Star Fern.

What do you do when you’re not at Plant?
When I am not at Plant I am chilling out, maxing, relaxing all cool- or reading, knitting, spending time with friends and dancing.

What can we expect if you get control of the shop’s playlist?
Probably sad songs- The Avett Brothers, The Staves, Middle Brother and more.

Besides @plantshopyyc, what’s your favorite plant-related social media account?
I think my favorite would be @plantsonpink.

Which of the treats in the Plant treat stash do you have the hardest time resisting?
Quite frankly I like all the treats, but I would say probably watermelon candies.

What phrase or expression do your Plant Fam members know you for?
I think my Plant Fam would quote me saying: “Lets get amped”, or “gnarly”, or just a really, really loud laugh.

Are you a Lake or a Clyde?
I think at work I am more of a Lake, but in life I am more of a Clyde; I can turn on the smize when needed, but would rather just hide under desks while people feed me contraband food.

Susanne Aaltonen
Team Member
Plant Fam Since: April 2017

What’s your favorite houseplant and why?
I do have a soft spot for hanging pothos (or anything hanging, really) as well as blue star ferns.

What do you do when you’re not at Plant?
I try to work on my paintings, write, or read something.

What can we expect if you get control of the shop’s playlist?
Something from the 60s/70s most likely.

Besides @plantshopyyc, what’s your favorite plant-related social media account?
Probably the local legend: Jesse’s @plantfilledapartment. Although @houseplantdiary or @urbanjungleblog are close runners up.

Which of the treats in the Plant treat stash do you have the hardest time resisting?
All of them.

What phrase or expression do your Plant Fam members know you for?
Probably just saying anything in a variety of accents.

Are you a Lake or a Clyde?
Clyde.

Lindsay Dimler
Team Member
Plant Fam Since: may 2018

What’s your favorite houseplant and why?
My favourite of anything fluctuates on the reg, but I would have to say a big ol’ peace lily is usually at the top of the list. 

What do you do when you’re not at Plant?
I am currently a music student working on Bachelor degree #2 before going on to a Master of Choral Conducting. If I’m not singing or playing music, you’ll probably find me quietly/not so quietly obsessing over my dog.  

What can we expect if you get control of the shop’s playlist?
Either some funky R&B or rock/southern rock from the 70s & 80s – nothing puts a smile on my face faster than the oldies!

Besides @plantshopyyc, what’s your favorite plant-related social media account?
@_greenheterotopia_gives me those dark, rich green vibes

Which of the treats in the Plant treat stash do you have the hardest time resisting?
I would do just about anything for the guac

What phrase or expression do your Plant Fam members know you for?
A semi-loud high-pitched “oh nooooooo” when I see any sort of animal and/or a very forward “can I take a picture of your dog?” to our customers who bring their babes into the shop 

Are you a Lake or a Clyde?
I recharge my batteries like a Clyde with some sweet alone time, but I’m more of a Lake when I’m out and about (i.e. all up in your face).

Taryn Garrett
Team Member
Plant Fam Since: NOvember 2018

What’s your favorite houseplant and why?
I love anything that tolerates low-light since I often end up living in darker spaces. Zamios always make me feel like I’m doing a good job, no matter the light situation.

What do you do when you’re not at Plant?
When I’m not at Plant I work on freelance illustration projects! Otherwise you can find me listening to podcasts, daydreaming about trees and moss, watching an embarrassing amount of Netflix, or re-reading Emily Carr and Patti Smith’s books for the nine-trillionth time.

What can we expect if you get control of the shop’s playlist?
Mostly melancholy folk, so maybe keep me away from music duty. My other shop faves are: Jose Gonzales, The Head and the Heart, Gregory Alan Isakov, Big Thief, The Decemberists, and Fleet Foxes. I also love when ‘90s throwback playlists are put on!

Besides @plantshopyyc, what’s your favorite plant-related social media account?
SO MANY. I love @haarkon for their stunning greenhouse tours/photography, @yasminemei and @swallowsanddamnsons for exceptional florals, @mountaintalk for a mix of florals and plants, and @floretflower for flower farming dreaminess.

Which of the treats in the Plant treat stash do you have the hardest time resisting?
Chips, Dino-sours, or the guac.

What phrase or expression do your Plant Fam members know you for?
I don’t really have a phrase/expression yet, but I am always eating Fruitsations fruit gummies? I have packs of them in my pockets, backpack or my apron every day, so maybe that’s becoming my thing instead.

Are you a Lake or a Clyde?
Clyde!

Jarret hartnell 
Team Member
Plant Fam Since: may 2018

What’s your favorite houseplant and why?
All Succulents because they’re little weirdos

What do you do when you’re not at Plant?
Can be found reading, writing and illustrating comic books or reading pulp science fiction. Likely with my two cats nearby 

What can we expect if you get control of the shop’s playlist?
Old Funk and Soul

Besides @plantshopyyc, what’s your favorite plant-related social media account?
@dogsofplant

Which of the treats in the Plant treat stash do you have the hardest time resisting?
Dino-sours and coffee but not at the same time

What phrase or expression do your Plant Fam members know you for?
“Maybe I should eat more veggies” 

Are you a Lake or a Clyde?
I can be quiet like Clyde but the staff always gets me howling

Alex Hicks
Team Member
Plant Fam Since: January 2018

What’s your favorite houseplant and why?
You can’t make me choose, I won’t!

What do you do when you’re not at Plant?
You will most likely find me outside. I love: walking, reading, walking while reading, cycling, hiking, fishing, food and yoga. I absolutely love learning new things, presently that means learning how to play violin, and making ceramics. Also, I am a Doula!

What can we expect if you get control of the shop’s playlist?
K. Music is a sacred thing. I don’t know if I have been around long enough to test out that privilege. But one time I snuck in “This must be the place” -Talking Heads

Besides @plantshopyyc, what’s your favorite plant-related social media account?
I don’t have social media.

Which of the treats in the Plant treat stash do you have the hardest time resisting?
Cookies.

What phrase or expression do your Plant Fam members know you for?
Probably my laugh. Classic.

Are you a Lake or a Clyde?
Lake – Curious and Cuddly

Samantha HrYnchyshyn 
Team Member
Plant Fam Since: May 2018

What’s your favorite houseplant and why?
I love the Bird of Paradise. It’s beautiful and lush. And I adore the reference to my beloved Papua New Guinea (The BOP is the national bird of PNG and is on their country’s flag).

What do you do when you’re not at Plant?
I hang out with my newly wedded husband. We are always scheming and dreaming of our next adventure, eating tacos and pizza, drinking coffee, and planning out next trip. 

What can we expect if you get control of the shop’s playlist?
On a normal day I would put on Gregory Alan Isakov, Dr. Dog, Whitney, First Aid Kit, and occasionally The Temper Trap. But, if I’m feeling bold I would play NSYNC or Destiny’s Child. I wish I could play Mariah Carey, but I’m not sure the plants could handle the high notes .

Besides @plantshopyyc, what’s your favorite plant-related social media account?
@the_flowershopkeepers
@houseplantjournal

Which of the treats in the Plant treat stash do you have the hardest time resisting?
The Molcajete guac foooooor suuuuure

What phrase or expression do your Plant Fam members know you for?
Totally

Are you a Lake or a Clyde?
I think I’m a Clyde kinda gal. A little quiet, but enjoy a good howl.

Lauren Strybos
Team Member
Plant Fam Since: January 2018

What’s your favorite houseplant and why?
I don’t usually like to play favourites, but my monstera is definitely at the top of the list! They grow quickly, fill up a room with lots of green, and every new leaf comes out so unique.

What do you do when you’re not at Plant?
You can either find me enjoying the great outdoors with friends or at Workshop Studios working on my creative practice & making ceramic goods for From Tree To Sea Ceramics. I’m pretty much always covered in either dirt or clay!

What can we expect if you get control of the shop’s playlist?
Definitely anything I can dance or sing along to.

Besides @plantshopyyc, what’s your favorite plant-related social media account?
I love @studioplants & @houseplantjournal (woohoo, repping Toronto!) and @botanicalwomen.

Which of the treats in the Plant treat stash do you have the hardest time resisting?
Ooh, definitely anything with chocolate in / on it.

What phrase or expression do your Plant Fam members know you for?
Probably “that sounds chill” or “eee this one’s so cool!”, especially on plant delivery days.

Are you a Lake or a Clyde?
Depends on my mood, but I think I’m generally more of a Lake. I get excited to see everyone and want to be around the action!

Brynn Swan
Team Member
Plant Fam Since: November 2017

What’s your favorite houseplant and why?
I love pothos – they are so basic, but they are the best. They are hardy kids & very rewarding! Pothos grow beautiful trails, which brighten up most rooms of my apartment. Neon, Golden, Satin, Marble – any variety earns an A+ in my books.

What do you do when you’re not at Plant?
When I’m not at work surrounded by the tropical & desert loving plants, I try to surround myself with the trees & shrubs of our awesome Northern home. I’ll take a walk or run through a river valley over almost anything else! My current goal is to run a half marathon in each province of our beautiful country. Although, I do have my basic tendencies too – you know I’ll also never turn down grabbing a $5 coffee & a chocolate croissant!

What can we expect if you get control of the shop’s playlist?
Typically I will just let Alicia choose, but I’ll pop in with some Oldies, or Diana Krall whenever I can. Also, if 5:45pm hits, and Buddy Bye by Johnny Osbourne comes on, that was definitely me.

Besides @plantshopyyc, what’s your favorite plant-related social media account?
@creeryan
@plantsinfocus

Which of the treats in the Plant treat stash do you have the hardest time resisting?
The guac.

What phrase or expression do your Plant Fam members know you for?
“Bless”.

Are you a Lake or a Clyde?
I’m for sure a Clyde. I’m pretty introverted & feel comfortable keeping to myself, but if you offer me food – you will have earned my trust, as well as my friendship.

Jane Sweetland
Team Member
Plant Fam Since: June 2014

What’s your favorite houseplant and why?
ZZ plant. Grows well in both my house and office, and I love the dark waxy leaves. It demands very little attention and makes me feel like a good plant parent!

What do you do when you’re not at Plant?
I have worked in the mental health field for the last 14 years, currently with young adults.I LOVE biking, hiking and yoga! I’m a certified yoga teacher specializing in helping individuals who are recovering from trauma. I also love good food and wine, but my favorite thing is being an auntie.

What can we expect if you get control of the shop’s playlist?
Paul Simon, Middle Brother or maybe even Dolly Parton. All depends on the mood and weather outside!

Besides @plantshopyyc, what’s your favorite plant-related social media account?
@thejungalow

Which of the treats in the Plant treat stash do you have the hardest time resisting?
Always the sour soothers. And any baked goods or special treats that are left on the back table!

What phrase or expression do your Plant Fam members know you for?
I have a lot- I get pretty silly! But I’m best known for showing the girls how to take a proper stretch break!

Are you a Lake or a Clyde?
Tough question for an Auntie! But I feel like little Clyde and I have a little and unspoken connection.

Toni Sweetland
Team Member
Plant Fam Since: August 2017

What’s your favorite houseplant and why?
Tropicals! They remind me of my travels through SE Asia, especially the funky coloured ones like the Rubber Plant and Bromeliad. They would always stick out to me most when I saw them in the wild because they’re so bright and unique looking.

What do you do when you’re not at Plant?
Before I began working at Plant, I spent three years traveling and working abroad. On an average day, If I’m not at plant I’m probably enjoying a post-hike glass of Pinot Grigio with my friends on a patio somewhere.

What can we expect if you get control of the shop’s playlist?
Nothing particular, I usually pick something upbeat that the plants can dance to.

Which of the treats in the Plant treat stash do you have the hardest time resisting?
THAT GUACAMOLE! YUM!

What phrase or expression do your Plant Fam members know you for?
Not an expression, but some may know me for wearing bright WHITE shoes to work at Plant store where I deal with SOIL. Needless to say they aren’t white anymore.

Are you a Lake or a Clyde?
Lake for sure! But a bit less dramatic. I love being social, but I probably wouldn’t lay on the ground with stomach exposed for attention. Although I’m sure it would work.

Maia Van Haastert
Team Member
Plant Fam Since: September 2016

What’s your favorite houseplant and why?
My White Snake plant! My sister and I both have a piece of the same plant. Snake plants are one of the best: hardy, dependable, good for the air, and unique.

What do you do when you’re not at Plant?
If the sun is shining you’ll find me outside! Hiking, reading, mowing the lawn…I could play in the sun forever. Other than that, cuddling with my kitten in the Tiny House.

What can we expect if you get control of the shop’s playlist?
Depending on the vibe or energy in the shop my go-tos include: The Head and the Heart, Tallest Man on Earth, or maybe some classic Paul Simon.

Besides @plantshopyyc, what’s your favorite plant-related social media account?
@secretsofgreen

Which of the treats in the Plant treat stash do you have the hardest time resisting?
Loving the candy jar.

What phrase or expression do your Plant Fam members know you for?
“It’s a bit chilly in here, hey?” Or the constant “crunch” of celery.

Are you a Lake or a Clyde?
That’s a tough one! I’m quiet and a bit of an introvert like Clyde, but also a sucker for the hugs, like Lake.

Clyde
Shop Dog

Nicknames:
Clyder, Clydie-Bear, Little bug, Boo

What do you do when you’re not at Plant?
Practice my karate moves, sing with my friends, and listen for the sound of plates scraping so I can help clean up after dinner.

You’re an Inglewood and Instagram celebrity. How can your fans connect with you?
Snacks. I’m not picky!

Photos: Michael Janke at sixtwosixproductions.com

Lake
Shop Dog

Nicknames:
Laker, Cakes, Ladybird, Moosh

What do you do when you’re not at Plant?
Nap, snore, chase magpies, and sneak any and all food that gets left unattended.

You’re an Inglewood and Instagram celebrity. How can your fans connect with you?
I’m here for the pets, scratches, cuddles, smooshes, and love in any form.

Janice Rusnak
Team Member (East Coast Division)
Plant Fam Since: December 2014

What’s your favorite houseplant and why?
Peperomia prostrada for its full cascading foliage.

What do you do when you’re not at Plant?
Hang out with my husband and dogs, go thrifting, read and bake.

What can we expect if you get control of the shop’s playlist?
Nina Simone. Maceo Parker. Tom Waits. Buck 65. Nick Cave. Some classical.

Besides @plantshopyyc, what’s your favorite plant-related social media account?
I only follow @plantshopyyc, otherwise it’s dogs, senior dogs, rescue dogs. All the dogs on Instagram.

Which of the treats in the Plant treat stash do you have the hardest time resisting?
The green and orange sour soothers, or any candy that isn’t stale, because stale candy is gross, right? Right, Kyle?

Are you a Lake or a Clyde?
Clyde. Introverts unite!