Urban Seed
Today we’re featuring a Darwen entrepreneur who proves that you’re never too young to follow your passions and invest energy into something rewarding.
Saffron is the founder of Darwen based houseplant business, Urban Seed. She was just sixteen years old when she began this venture as a way to help get through a very challenging time with her mental health.
Darwen based houseplant shop
The idea was sparked by the purchase of a Welsh dresser at the former Unit 17, which turned out to be the perfect place to display beautiful houseplants! There’s something calming about houseplants – both in the energy they bring into a home, and the energy used in taking care of them. They’re a relatively low maintenance way to bring some life and vitality into your environment.
Saffron began to source, propagate and sell quality house plants, from tiny air plants to majestic Monsteras and everything in between. Urban Seed gained a loyal following of customers in Darwen and on social media, and reached a point where Saffron had to bring mum, Kerry, onto the team.
Houseplant market stalls and pop-ups in Darwen Town Centre
.With a supportive extra pair of hands on board, Urban Seed were able to branch out (excuse the pun) and begin doing local market stalls, such as events on Darwen Market Square, and even set up a space at the Imaginarium Community Hub on Borough Road in Darwen Town Centre, where visitors can purchase houseplants.
Fellow local businesses became interested in stocking Urban Seed plants in their shops, such as Number One Coffee Shop on Bridge Street, who also happen to be a member of our Shop Darwen shop local scheme. We love it when local businesses support one another and aid in each other’s growth.
A little idea sparked by a second hand Welsh dresser has now blossomed into a thriving small business that keeps growing and growing. Urban Seed is now registered with the APHA and ships plants all over the UK, but Saffron and Kerry are eternally grateful to the Darwen based businesses that have supported them, and also to the members of their Facebook group.
So what’s next for Urban Seed?
Saffron has currently taken a back seat as she has recently had a baby (congratulations!), but the business continued to thrive while in the safe hands of Kerry.
The dream is to have a combined business premises where Urban Seed can have its own space and Saffron can set up a tattooing business alongside, which has been a personal dream of hers for a long time.
Houseplant services
In addition to their regular house plant sales, Urban Seed are continuing to offer various unique botanical services to Darwen and the surrounding areas, such as wedding and baby shower tablescapes and favours, pop-ups at local events and a plant repotting service. Saffron and Kerry can also help with plant care advice for customers to keep their plants happy and healthy.
Giving back to charity
Urban Seed also gives back to a charity that is very close to their heart. They take plant donations that are then treated and auctioned to raise money for the MND Association. This is done in memory of Kerry’s dad, who sadly passed away from MND.
Inspirational Darwen based entrepreneurs
We asked Saffron and Kerry what message they would like to say to the people of Darwen:
“If you have an idea as a young person, go for it! You never know what you can achieve until you try. No matter what challenges you are facing, there’s always something to focus on, especially when you look to something that brings you happiness.”
What an inspiring message.
Next time you’re on the lookout for quality houseplants, either as a gift or to brighten up a corner of your home, support a passionate local Darwen business and head to Urban Seed.
Where to find Urban Seed
You can find them at their pop-up in Imaginarium, or join their Facebook group to shop online. They will also have a fully stocked stall at Darwen Pride on Saturday 13th July. Make sure you head down to the market square and say hello!
(Saffron is also looking for a local tattooist who would be able to mentor her on the next step of her journey.)
Thanks again to Urban Seed for sharing your story, and for being a thriving member of the Darwen small business community.
If you’re behind an independent business in Darwen and would like to be featured as a local entrepreneur, please send us a message on Facebook.
