In a world where we’re constantly seeking ways to bring nature indoors, Eliza Blank, the founder and CEO of The Sill, has managed to turn her passion for plants into a thriving business. The Sill, a direct-to-consumer houseplant company, is on a mission to make everyone a “plant person” and infuse indoor environments with the benefits of lush greenery.
Blank’s love affair with plants was deeply rooted in her upbringing. Inspired by her mother’s green thumb and the lush gardens that filled her childhood home, Blank developed a profound appreciation for the natural world. However, as a young adult living in a tiny New York City apartment, she encountered a common challenge: finding the perfect plants to thrive in limited indoor spaces. This ultimately sparked the initial idea for The Sill while Blank was still in college.
In 2012, Blank decided to take the leap and turn her plant-focused dream into a reality. To start her venture, she launched a Kickstarter campaign, which successfully raised $12,000, providing her with the initial capital needed to embark on her entrepreneurial journey. In the early days of The Sill, Blank took a hands-on approach; she personally sourced, potted, and hand-delivered plants to clients in the bustling metropolis of New York City. It was a labor of love, a testament to her dedication to bringing the beauty and benefits of plants to city dwellers.
