Succulents may be trending, but in the hands of Kris Norvell, they become something more than fashionable greenery.
Through It’s a Beautiful Life Succulent Gardens, a boutique succulent nursery and florist, Kris creates artful arrangements that are at once resilient, expressive, and strikingly beautiful.
She offers custom and pre-made arrangements, workshops, private events, and immersive planting experiences that help people bring a little more life into their homes.
We asked Kris why succulents have captured so many hearts, how to care for them well, and what makes her “fancy plants” stand apart.
Why are succulents having such a moment right now, and why should people consider owning them?
Succulents are an amazing plant, especially for new plant parents. They aren’t just cute, trendy plants; they’re tiny powerhouses of beauty, resilience, and symbolism.
They’re also perfect for small spaces. Because most varieties stay compact, succulents work beautifully on windowsills, desks, shelves, and patios.
There are seemingly endless varieties of shapes, colors, and textures. Some look like roses, others like coral reefs or even tiny trees.
Succulents are also easy to propagate. Many succulents can grow new plants from a single leaf or cutting. That means one plant can turn into dozens over time, which is perfect for sharing with friends or expanding your collection.
They also boost mood! Caring for plants has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood. Having living greenery around you can make a space feel calmer and more welcoming.
Succulents are great for creative projects. They are ideal for arrangements, crafts, decor, and workshops. Their durability makes them perfect for artistic designs, conversation pieces, and gifts. In our case, they’re an outlet for our artistic expression.
And because they thrive in tough environments, succulents symbolize perseverance, endurance, and flourishing through adversity, which is something many people connect with on a deeper, more personal level.
What are your best quick tips for caring for succulents at home?
Succulents are easy to care for. They store water in their leaves, stems, or roots, which means they don’t need frequent watering. Even beginners can keep them thriving with minimal effort.
Use natural pest control, and give lots of light, whether that’s six hours of direct sun, eight hours of bright indirect light, or our personal favorite, which is grow lights.
The number one killer of a succulent is root rot, most often from overwatering. Just set down the watering can and enjoy the beauty.
What makes the succulents you offer unique?
It’s a Beautiful Life succulents and succulent arrangements are “fancy plants,” if you will. We only use the best succulents, sourced worldwide for their superior coloring, character, and condition. We want our work to present as living works of art, so we are very particular about presentation.
We’re a boutique, not a big box, and we love getting to know our customers.
To learn more about Kris Norvell and It’s a Beautiful Life Succulent Gardens, you can reach her by phone at (225) 328-6602 and email atkris.norvell@yahoo.com. Follow her on Facebook @itsabeautifullifesucculentgardens, Instagram @beautifullifesucculents, and Linktree linktr.ee/beautifullifesucculents.