From Petals to Pumpkins: The Joyful World of The Little Shop of Horticulture

In Santa Cruz, where ocean air meets redwood roots, creativity tends to grow wild. For Kristin Michal, founder of The Little Shop of Horticulture, that spark took shape in the form of moss, succulents, and a deep love for bringing people together. What began as a small side project soon bloomed into a full-fledged botanical design and event studio, part workshop, part community hub, and always a celebration of creativity.

This fall, she brings that same playful spirit to Treehouse Hotel Silicon Valley, inviting guests to get a little messy with a hands-on Pumpkin Succulent Workshop that transforms the everyday pumpkin into a living work of art. Think crisp autumn air, pumpkins piled high, and an afternoon rooted in craft and connection. As autumn settles in, we sat down with Kristin to talk about her creative roots, the community that inspires her, and the fall favorite that’s taken on a life of its own: the pumpkin succulent.

Getting Our Hands Dirty with Kristin Michal

Your world is full of petals, parties, and playful design. How did The Little Shop of Horticulture first take root?

What started as a small creative side hustle has grown into one of the most joyful design studios in Santa Cruz. The Little Shop of Horticulture began as my way of adding a little fun and creativity back into life after leaving the corporate world. I had moved from Wisconsin to California for a dream job in brand marketing, and when the company eventually relocated, I decided to stay and try my hand at building something that truly filled my cup. I’ve always loved plants, crafting, and bringing people together, so I thought, why not blend them all into one little business? What began as a few rolling racks in a garage soon blossomed into a thriving botanical design and event studio here in Santa Cruz.

These days, The Little Shop’s roots stretch far beyond the coast. We host hands-on workshops throughout the Bay Area, partnering with the most incredible clients and even broadcasting live from our own Little Shop TV Studio, connecting teams and plant lovers around the world through the joy of creativity.
But the very best part? The people. Every workshop brings a new mix of stories, laughter, and shared moments. There is nothing better than watching strangers become friends over a table full of plants and craft supplies. Honestly, I still can’t believe this is what I get to do for a living. What started as a simple idea and a leap of faith has grown into something truly special and the absolute joy of my life.

We’ve heard whispers of pumpkin succulents (and now we’re obsessed). What are they exactly and how did you get hooked?

Succulent Pumpkins are one of those simple little creations that just make you smile. We start with real pumpkins, add a layer of soft moss, and nestle in fresh succulents and air plants to create a living centerpiece that lasts all season long. There’s no carving or paint involved, just gorgeous natural textures, colors, and a bit of creative joy.
The first one I ever made combined everything I love, plants, design, and hands-on creativity, I was hooked right away. It’s such a fun way to celebrate the season, and I absolutely love watching people light up when they realize how beautiful and approachable it is to make something with their own two hands.

You’re bringing the pumpkin magic to Treehouse this fall. What can guests expect when they join your workshop?

Think cozy fall energy, good music, and a table overflowing with beautiful pumpkins, moss, succulents and air plants just waiting to be transformed. Together, we’ll walk through how to design your own living pumpkin centerpiece. I’ll share a few tips and tricks along the way, but mostly it’s about letting yourself play, mixing textures, experimenting with color, and simply enjoying the creative process. Every workshop starts out a little quiet as everyone eases in, and then before you know it, the space is buzzing with laughter and conversation. People start sharing ideas, swapping succulents, and beaming with pride over what they’ve made. It’s never just about crafting a centerpiece, it’s about slowing down, connecting, and remembering how good it feels to make something with your own two hands.

Your studio has deep roots in the local maker community. Why is that connection so important to what you do?

Community has always been at the heart of The Little Shop. I come from a long line of midwest farmers, people who knew the value of hard work and good neighbors. That foundation shaped everything about how I see the world and how I run my business today. Here in Santa Cruz, I’ve found that same spirit of connection. Our pumpkins are grown just down HWY 1, our wood products are all built by local carpenters, and our succulents and flowers come from growers right down the coast. Almost every workshop we host has a little bit of that local love mixed in.

I’ve always believed we’re better when we build things together. There’s something really special about collaborating with people who love what they do, it makes every project feel more personal and every success feel shared. At the end of the day, it’s all about growing good things, side by side.

How do we keep our pumpkin pals looking perky all season? Any tips or tricks of the trade?

The secret is pretty simple with these babies, less is more. Keep your pumpkin in a cool spot where it gets a little sunshine, and give your succulents and air plants a light mist every week or so. They’re perfectly happy inside or outside and don’t need much fuss to stay looking their best.
Over time, the pumpkin will naturally start to dry out, but the succulents will keep on thriving. When it’s time to pack up the fall décor, just plant them in a pot or the garden and let them keep doing their thing.

Since we’re heading into autumn, what’s your idea of a perfect fall day? 

A perfect fall day starts with a good cup of coffee and great company. I love a morning walk on the beach in Capitola, collecting sea glass and soaking in the salty air and sunshine. From there, maybe it’s a trip up to my brother’s vineyard to lend a hand with the vines or a slow afternoon at home, getting my hands dirty planting, crafting, or creating something just for fun.
When evening rolls around, there’s nothing better than a crowded table filled with good food, easy conversation, and the kind of laughter that makes your cheeks hurt. My perfect fall day feels unhurried and creative, surrounded by good people, great energy, and a reason to celebrate the season.