After 25 years of service in the Royal Air Force, Carl McDermott, and Gill Vigus, a former RAF project manager, have turned their passion for horticulture and entrepreneurship to start their own business. The couple decided to pursue their dream of owning a garden center and nursery after realizing that the traditional retail model was not sustainable for them. Background and inspiration: Carl and Gill’s journey began with their passion for gardening and growing their own fruits and vegetables. As they took on more responsibilities in their RAF careers, they started to look for ways to diversify their income streams. They noticed the success of garden centers and nurseries in their area and realized that this could be a viable alternative to traditional retail. Challenges faced: The couple faced significant challenges in transitioning from their military careers to running a business. They had to learn new skills, such as accounting, marketing, and customer service, which were vastly different from their military backgrounds. They also had to overcome the skepticism of some local business owners who were hesitant to support a new venture from outsiders. The business plan: Carl and Gill’s business plan focused on creating a unique and welcoming experience for their customers. They wanted to showcase their passion for horticulture and provide a wide range of plants, gardening supplies, and expert advice.

The Cline Family Legacy

The Cline family has a rich history of innovation and entrepreneurship, with a legacy that spans multiple generations.

He had been working at the garden centre for over 20 years, and his experience and knowledge of plants were unparalleled. He was tasked with reviving the garden centre, which had been struggling financially.