‘This doesn’t feel like work’
Wandering Jasmine Gardens delves into positivity with unique items
Mercedes Blair is passionate about plants and her new business lets her share that love with others every day.
Her shop, Wandering Jasmine Gardens, is a wonderland filled with plants and many other eye-catching treasures.
“I started out with my own plants,” she said. “In 2019 I was selling personal propagations and my house was becoming overcrowded.”
In September 2020, she began studying business administration at the Nova Scotia Community College, with the goal of eventually having her own shop. She opened Wandering Jasmine Gardens in April of 2022, shortly before she graduated.
“Once you realize you can keep a plant alive, it becomes an addiction,” she said. “I have such passion for plants and there are so many different varieties. There are health benefits to them. They clean the air in the home, boost productivity and mental health. They make me feel good.”
One of the most popular plants is the spider plant, which Blair points out are the number one air purifier, are easy to care for and are nontoxic.
Along with plants, Wandering Jasmine Gardens has plant care supplies, including a soil bar where soil can be purchased by the scoop. When it comes to plants, Blair but will use her knowledge to diagnose issues, handle repotting and do plant sitting for people who are going to be away from home.
Many people also visit the store to buy crystals.
“They go well with plants because they both bring positivity,” said Blair.
“A lot of things created by other local people are placed in the shop on consignment. There are pins, earrings, fairy doors, candles, dog treats (dee burt K9), fairy doors, artwork, macrame … Stickers (which are 10 for a dollar) are very popular, and not just with kids.”
In addition, a lot of people know Blair for her beautiful photography and prints of her own photos can be purchased at the shop. When she has a day off, she goes on adventures with her dog, Izzy, and takes plenty of photos.
The logo for Wandering Jasmine Gardens shows a flower and the nose of Jazzy, the dog who took part in many adventures with her and helps her through difficult times.
“It represents taking the time to stop and smell the flowers,” said Blair. “Jazzy inspired my photography, my books, and opening my own shop. She died two months after I opened the store but she got me to where I needed to be. I don’t think I could have done it without her. I’m so glad to be here now. This doesn’t feel like work. It’s my passion and I’m doing what I love.”
Wandering Jasmine Gardens is located at 32 Esplanade and is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday between noon and 4 p.m.
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More information can be found on the shop’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/wanderingjasminegardens and on the website at https://wanderingjasminegardens.ca/