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Member Spotlight: Plantella

Founded in March 2023 by Courtney Kocsis and based in Schenectady, New York, Plantella has grown from an experimental local plant market into a traveling series of large-scale houseplant expos across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. Operating across New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and soon Virginia Beach, Plantella has become known for creating immersive experiences that go far beyond buying plants. More than a marketplace, Plantella is a community filled with what it calls “side quests”—unexpected experiences such as bonsai exhibitions, reptile encounters, educational presentations, tattoos, face painting, henna, artists, music, photo opportunities, custom cocktails, and other discoveries—that turn a shopping trip into an adventure. Looking ahead, Plantella plans to further expand its reach and offerings, with a botanical café featuring its unique vendors as the next step in its growth.

What many people don’t realize is that Plantella is an “Army of 1.” Every aspect of the business is created in house, from event concepts, vendor recruitment, and floor plans to marketing, artwork, and social media. What many assume is the work of a large team is often the result of one determined plant enthusiast fueled by caffeine, spreadsheets, a slightly concerning number of browser tabs, and a frazzled Mini Schnauzer. While independently owned and operated, friends have played a critical role in the company’s success. One of which is a best friend of more than 25 years who named Plantella and jokingly threatened to trademark the name and sell it back if it wasn’t secured first—a challenge that was quickly accepted.

The inspiration for Plantella came after trying to sell plants at other markets and realizing those events were not attracting the right audience. Rather than continuing to search for the perfect venue, the founder created one. After renting a community room, gathering 19 vendors, and hoping for the best, more than 400 people attended the first event. A lifelong love of bringing people together combined with a culinary background and years of event planning experience helped transform a hobby into a thriving business. Following an illness that made traditional work more difficult, selling plant propagations became a way to monetize a longtime passion.

Plantella’s growth has been remarkable. Since starting with one community room in 2023, the business expanded to three community rooms in 2024, then two full breweries and three full convention centers in 2025. In 2026, Plantella is hosting events in five full convention centers. Despite having zero sponsors, the business continues to expand, including a successful event in Philadelphia and plans for continued growth throughout the region.

What sets Plantella apart is a commitment to creating events the founder would want to attend as both a vendor and shopper. By selecting the best vendors and special features in the region, Plantella strives to deliver the best possible experience while ensuring the rules remain fair and the day remains fun. The company welcomes everyone, from first-time plant buyers looking for a $5 plant to serious collectors seeking rare specimens, alongside artists, makers, and unique artisans.

As a member of the Capital Region Chamber, Plantella views the organization as “the successful relative that I never had to hold my hand on this new road to business.” The support and accessibility of Chamber resources have provided reassurance and guidance along the entrepreneurial journey. Plantella has participated in the Fall 2025 Booth Camp and attended Chamber networking events, including a brewery mixer.

For Plantella, the Capital Region is more than a place to do business—it’s home. Although there was once a desire to live in California, that experience only deepened an appreciation for the Capital Region’s trees, four seasons, and sense of community. The region’s enthusiastic support of Plantella has been especially meaningful. Among the most rewarding feedback the company has received are comments from attendees who say they finally “found their people” and vendors who feel genuinely supported and appreciated. Creating a welcoming community where small businesses can thrive and plant lovers can connect remains the accomplishment Plantella values most.

Follow Plantella on Facebook and Instagram.