Chronic illness didn’t stop this M’sian from starting a plant biz, now it’s an 8 Y/O brand

There’s something inherently calming about the colour green. It evokes images of lush forests, rolling hills, and tranquil gardens. For many, it’s a visual balm, a soothing antidote to the frenetic pace of modern life. 

Lim Yee Zhing, an architect turned plant enthusiast, discovered this firsthand. Her knack for creating things led her to architecture.  

But life had other plans. An unexpected health challenge, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), turned her world upside down. The once vibrant architect found herself struggling with debilitating fatigue and joint pain.

From that, though, something new bloomed.

Finding solace in succulents

It’s in these moments of vulnerability that people often turn to nature for solace. For Yee Zhing, it was a succulent plant that became her unexpected sanctuary. As she tended to her green companion, she discovered a sense of calm and purpose. 

“There was something incredibly therapeutic about nurturing a living thing,” she recalled. “It was like a silent conversation with nature.”

Watching a single leaf transform into a thriving plant was a daily miracle. “It was a symbol of resilience,” she said. “These plants taught me that even in the harshest conditions, life finds a way.”

As Yee Zhing’s health improved, so did her passion for succulents. Her apartment became a verdant oasis, a testament to her green thumb and unwavering determination. Friends and family were captivated by her creations, and soon, requests for plant cuttings and terrariums started pouring in.

“I realised there was a demand for something different,” Yee Zhing told Vulcan Post. “People were tired of the usual floral arrangements. They wanted something unique and low-maintenance.” And so, Little Eden Succulents was born in 2016.

She has been on this succulent plant learning journey for about eight years while contending with SLE, a disease that causes her immune system to attack her tissues, resulting in widespread inflammation and tissue damage.

Balancing passion with business

“When I started, my focus was not on the rarity or potential lack of popularity of succulents but rather on pursuing something I truly loved. I was passionate about sharing the beauty and therapeutic benefits of succulents with others,” she shared.

Combining her love for plants with her architectural eye, she began creating stunning succulent terrariums. These miniature gardens, enclosed in glass vessels, were not just beautiful; they were also a symbol of hope and renewal.

Little Eden Succulents quickly gained a loyal following. People were drawn not only to the aesthetic appeal of the terrariums but also to the sense of calm and well-being they evoked. Yee Zhing realised that she was onto something bigger than just selling plants.

“I wanted to create a space where people could connect with nature and find peace,” she said. 

With that in mind, she began offering workshops on terrarium making. These sessions weren’t just instructional—they were opportunities for people to unwind, learn, and connect with like-minded individuals.

But Yee Zhing’s vision extends beyond the realm of plants. She is passionate about giving back to the community, and so, a portion of Little Eden Succulents’ profits is donated to charitable causes. 

“I believe in the power of kindness and compassion,” she says. “I want to create a positive impact on the world, one plant at a time.”

Overcoming misconceptions and challenges

Like any other business, growing Little Eden Succulents has been a journey marked by both triumphs and challenges for Yee Zhing. Balancing the demands of a burgeoning business while managing a chronic illness requires meticulous planning and delegation.

One of the biggest hurdles she faced was dispelling the misconception that succulents are high-maintenance. To counter this, Yee Zhing and her team implemented a robust customer education strategy, providing detailed care guides and offering post-purchase consultations.

It’s also a way for the brand to maintain its relevance and appeal amidst the growing popularity of succulents and subsequently, succulent-focused businesses.

Building and managing a team presented its own set of obstacles too. Assembling a group of individuals who not only possessed plant knowledge but also shared the company’s passion for customer service was essential. 

Strategic planning and a steadfast commitment to customer satisfaction proved instrumental in overcoming these challenges.

Little Eden Succulents’ journey began humbly, with Yee Zhing operating out of her mother’s condominium balcony. The pandemic, while challenging, also catalysed growth. 

The shift to an appointment-based studio model not only helped the business adapt but also laid the groundwork for future expansion. The subsequent opening of physical stores in prime locations marked significant milestones in the company’s evolution.

“In the years following, we were delighted to expand with new outlets, including our store in Eslite Spectrum at Level 1, The Starhill, KL, and later our third outlet, The Nest PJ by LES Group at Empire Damansara, Heritage Lane, which faces a peaceful forest reserve,” Yee Zhing told.

Growth and expansion

The support and encouragement of the community have been invaluable to Little Eden Succulents’ success. With each new store opening, the company has moved closer to its vision of creating spaces where people can connect with nature, find peace, and experience the joy of plant ownership.

As Little Eden Succulents continues to grow, Yee Zhing remains committed to sustainability. She sources her plants responsibly and encourages customers to care for their plants in an eco-friendly manner. 

Looking ahead, Yee Zhing and her team envision a future where Little Eden Succulents becomes a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. 

The concept of a retreat centre, where individuals can immerse themselves in nature, is a core part of the company’s long-term goals. By expanding its reach and sharing its passion for plants, Little Eden Succulents aims to create a positive impact on the lives of many. 

For those considering a similar career shift or pursuing a passion project, Yee Zhing advises embracing the journey with an open heart and a resilient spirit. 

“Life’s challenges can shape perspectives and deepen appreciation for what truly matters. Let your passion guide you, and remember that real fulfilment comes from the positive impact you can make on the community.”

“Stay adaptable, cherish the small victories, and always strive to bring a little more love and kindness into the world,” she said.

Featured Image Credit: Little Eden Succulents