On March 8, 2025, the world rallies behind women all over the globe.
Since the early 1900s, International Womens’ Day has served as an opportunity for people across countries to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of the women in their communities.
It is an unchanging fact that contributions of women through history have irrevocably shaped the course of our future, and true to history, they will continue to do so. Through scientific discovery and invention, protests for equality and voting rights, accomplishments in the arts and humanities, and so much more, we’re taking a minute to remember just who runs the world:
Women.
To celebrate International Womens’ Day at Seeds of Life, we’re taking a close look at the women who make our mission possible.
From our founder to our key staff, Seeds of Life is run by a team of amazing women! Let’s go meet them:
Q1: Tell us about your role at Seeds of Life. What do you do, how long have you been working with the company, and why do you like what you do?
Julie: I feel like I have always been here at the company, even as a little girl when it was my dad’s business. A farmer’s life is all encompassing, and whatever project my father was working on, we would either be involved helping or certainly praying for his success. From planting the leather leaf, freeze protecting, or gathering seeds from the tree fern plant, our family understood hard work and dedication. And now that Matt and I have our own company, the lessons I learned as a young child carry on.
Maria M.: I have the privilege to serve as the Manager for the Nursery for 19 golden years! I believe that when you absolutely love what you do, you don’t see it as just a job - you see it as your passion. Managing the nursery is my happy place. Being able to connect with nature, nurture beautiful “babies” (plants), and ensure they grow healthy brings so much joy to me! Managing this department allows me to make sure we provide the best gifts for customers. I make sure quality and health is at its peak when we ship these beautiful plants to our customers. It takes a village to grow these beautiful plants from planting them to pruning them. It’s work that I get to enjoy!
Fabiola: I have been working at The Magnolia Company for over 20 years. My main role is to take care of our green house and Liners (Zone #9 Nursery).
Martha: They say time flies when you are having fun, I say time flies when you are doing what you love! I will be celebrating 23 years serving as a production manager. I enjoy managing the production and shipping process, ensuring that every customer can enjoy our wonderful products no matter where they are located. You can say I contribute by bringing smiles to our customers’ faces!
Cristina: I have been working at The Magnolia company for 24 years. My responsibilities include meeting the day-to-day goals for the growth of the company and giving new job opportunities to people.
Maria J.: I’m the office manager and I have been working at The Magnolia Company for 20 years. My role involves planning, organizing, staffing, leading, and ensuring that the office runs smoothly. My goal is to minimize the workload for the owners so that they can focus on bigger tasks!
Q2: Who are the women who helped shape your life in significant ways? Can you share a story of a woman who positively impacted you in your life path?
Julie: My grandmother, Mary McKay Underhill started Underhill Ferneries in 1936, and this business still exists today. She was incredibly wise and quite the hard worker, never giving in to discouragement when faced with an obstacle. She chose to always see the bright side of things and taught us unconditional love.
Maria M.: My beautiful mother is who I owe who I am today. My mother was an avid gardener. From the smallest stem, she would create a gorgeous plant or tree. Every fruit tree she planted was guaranteed to bear fruit! The passion she placed in her flowers I see in myself today. My mother didn’t attend school so she didn’t know how to read and write, but she pushed herself to be able to read and write. Having many limitations was never an excuse for her. She pushed through every single obstacle she encountered. I believe that is why I do not give up in everything I do, I must press toward the mark! My mother was a loving woman who always helped in everything she could. My passion to serve reminds me of her every day, and when I am preparing a plant, I pour all of that passion into my work, hoping I can bring happiness to many families who receive them.
Fabiola: Liguia Esquivel (Pastors’ wife) has taught me to depend on God, because everything is his and for him. With that comes security and trust in me so I can be able to obtain the things I set myself to do in life.
Martha: My beautiful Mother was the greatest influence in my life. Her passion to serve in every aspect of her life taught me to give my best in everything I do. She showed me not to allow any limitations around me to stop me from reaching my goals. Her tenacity to always provide and give us her very best inspired me to never allow the negativity of this world to dim my passion to be my very best self. Plus, she loved giving everyone the best of herself. That's why I strive to serve and provide everyone around me with the best of me. My mother was a Godly woman who did everything in her power to be there for us and when she couldn't she taught us to call on God and trust and allow him to do the rest. That showed me that I have to push through and when I can no longer leave it to God to help me finish the rest so no matter what I'll get to the finish line.
Cristina: My grandmother and my mother encouraged me to become the person I am by giving me responsibilities at an early age with discipline and honesty.
Maria J.: My mother Minerva was a special, strong, and hardworking woman who dedicated her life to ensuring that her children had the best opportunities. One of her fundamental beliefs was that education is the one thing no one can take away from you. She often encouraged us (her children) to strive to be better than both of our parents. Her words continue to resonate with me and inspire my pursuit of knowledge and self-improvement every day.
Q3: How has working at Seeds of Life changed the way you look at the world?
Julie: Having this foundation of family creates an incredible sense of pride for what we have all created here in this little tiny town of Barberville. Serving our customers is our focus, helping them create a beautiful home with our handmade wreaths or planting a tree in memory of a lost loved one. Each and every gift that leaves our farm is special to me.
Maria M.: Being able to serve our customers all over the world is a way of sharing a piece of joy and in some way connects me to each and every one of them. Having the opportunity to ship these beautiful trees and products to our client shows me we all have many similarities and we all connect through the beauty and sentiment of each plant, tree and wreath. The Magnolia Company and Seeds of Life has taught me that what we do makes a huge difference in someone’s life. We can bring comfort, happiness and celebration through our beautiful products and we all connect by sentiment and items that are meaningful.
Fabiola: We have set goals and on a personal or family level we can set goals as well.
Martha: Serving our customers in Seeds of Life has shown me that no matter what we may be going through or what we may be facing in our personal, community or nationwide, we hold on to traditions and hold on to beautiful memories and create new ones with the people we love. From a beautiful wreath, garland or a beautiful tree it's a spark of hope and joy that has the power to change your situation.
Cristina: Since I have worked at The Magnolia Company, I know that every day I learn something new and I have developed new skills as a leader and a different way of seeing the world.
Maria J.: Working at The Magnolia Company has truly opened my eyes to the power of collaboration. It’s become clear to me that, while we may hold different views and opinions, it is precisely this diversity that shapes our company into something greater. By working together and embracing our unique perspectives, we can create innovative solutions and foster a more inclusive environment.
Q4: What advice - personal or professional - do you have for young women today?
Julie: I think it is so important to start the day before the sun comes up. Sitting quietly in prayer brings peace and direction for the day. God has blessed me with a longing to seek and serve him in all areas of my life. The world is filled with many voices that distract us from this still quiet voice, but when heard, we can become instruments for him, ultimately leading others to his love.
Maria M.: There are many young professionals out there who have many great qualities and qualifications and maybe that will open many doors, but in many careers - as shiny as they may be - if you don’t serve with passion, you will never get to enjoy true success. When you love what you do, you trust in yourself to be your best, and never stop learning! Don’t allow your situations or limitations to stop you from getting what you want. Be hard working and be better every day and remember “I can do all things through Crist who strengthens me” - Philippians 4:13
Fabiola: Be confident! Be consistent in what you want. You are important!
Martha: I believe that God makes you unique and there is not another person like you, so I would tell them to be your very best self. When you believe in yourself, you can achieve and reach any goal or dream you may have. Also, always be open to learning, growing and improving every day. Enjoy and celebrate what you do and serve with a cheerful heart. Ask God for favor, mercy and grace but also be willing to give favor, mercy and grace and you will be great!
Cristina: At a professional level, achieve educational goals to break the cycles of past generations and improve the world as good citizens.
Maria J.: I encourage women to focus on learning. The more education and knowledge you acquire, the more empowered you will be. Aim for financial independence, as it grants you the freedom to make choices and pursue your dreams. Overall, build strong relationships as it’s crucial; surround yourself with supportive people who inspire and uplift you. Above all, remember to enjoy life and cherish each moment.
