One of the most common questions I get is "How did you get involved in the bonsai business?"

It all started in 2001, when my wife gave me a bonsai for my birthday. At the time, my green thumb was non-existent (some would say it still is), so I had no idea how to care for it. I didn't even know where to put it – outdoors, near a window, or in a shaded area? Suddenly I was missing the golf balls and ties I had received in years past.

With a little online research and a single book, I was able to keep this first tree alive. Turns out that with proper care, bonsai trees aren't too difficult to keep alive. I'm happy to report that this first tree is still alive and flourishing today, thank you very much.

As I became more courageous, I decided it was time to prune my tree. I knew from online research and books that I should use official bonsai shears. But when I went online and started searching for bonsai tools, I was shocked by the prices people were charging for these specialized garden tools.

With that, the seed was planted (forgive the pun). I had studied international business in college, so I contacted some old friends. The initial process wasn't easy, but I was able to locate manufacturers and suppliers who were willing to supply me with high-quality products at an affordable price. We were officially off and running. Of course there were bumps along the way, but perhaps I'll save that story for another day.

So that's how it started. Part serendipity, part insight, and part luck. But we couldn't have done it without you.

So thank you for your continued support of Bonsai Outlet and if there's anything I can do to help improve your experience, please let me know.

Sincerely,

Ashley R. Carrier
President
Bonsai Outlet