Meet Nimal Samuel | Shop Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nimal Samuel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nimal, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I first came to Miami from Sri Lanka, I worked very hard at different jobs to support my family and to save for a home. But deep down, I always dreamed of having something of my own, a business that reflected who I am and what I love. Growing up in a tropical country, I was surrounded by nature, and orchids always fascinated me with their beauty and resilience. One day, I saw someone selling orchids, and I thought, maybe I can do that too.

When we bought our home in Coconut Grove, I saw the big front yard and thought it would be the perfect place to try. It wasn’t easy, but I wanted to create something that made people happy while also building a future for my wife and children. It became not just my dream, but our family’s dream. My mother Beatrice encouraged me, my wife Devika supported me, and later my kids, Melissa, Kristena, and Nathan — all joined in. That family effort is what made J.J. Orchids possible.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
J.J. Orchids started very simply, just me, a front yard, and a small collection of orchids. Over the years it has grown into something much bigger, but what sets us apart is that it has always been run with heart. We’re not a big commercial nursery. We’re a family business right in Coconut Grove, and people who come here feel that personal touch. Customers often tell us they feel like they’re stepping into an oasis when they walk into our backyard.

I’m most proud that what started as a dream has become part of the community. Our orchids decorate homes, restaurants, and even nonprofit fundraisers across Miami. People come not just for the flowers, but for the experience — to chat, get advice, and feel welcomed by my family. That’s something you don’t find everywhere.

It definitely wasn’t easy. When I started, I didn’t have much. There were days I wasn’t sure if I could make it work. I had to learn how to build relationships with wholesalers, manage expenses, and earn customers’ trust one by one. There was a lot of trial and error, but I kept going because I believed in what I was building.

The biggest lessons I’ve learned are patience, consistency, and humility. Orchids themselves are good teachers, they take time and care, but if you treat them right, they reward you with beauty. The same is true for business.

What I want the world to know about J.J. Orchids is that we are more than a flower shop. We are a family story — from my mother’s courage to come here, to the hard work we’ve all put in, to the community that has supported us for more than a decade. Every orchid we sell carries that story with it..

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting Miami for a week, I’d definitely start right here in Coconut Grove. The Grove has such a unique charm — a mix of old and new, and I think it’s one of the best places to experience Miami at a slower, friendlier pace.

On the first day, I’d take them for breakfast at Greenstreet Café, which has been part of our story since my early days working there. From there, we’d walk around the Grove, visit Peacock Park, and maybe rent bikes to ride along the waterfront. In the evening, we’d enjoy dinner at Atchana’s Homegrown Thai, where you’ll even find our orchids decorating the restaurant.

The next few days, I’d want them to see more of Miami — places like Wynwood to enjoy the street art, Little Havana for the culture, food, and music, and of course Miami Beach for the sand and ocean. We’d try some Cuban coffee, maybe stop at Versailles, and walk Calle Ocho.

But I’d also take them to places locals love, like the farmer’s market in Pinecrest, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, and Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, which is one of the most beautiful spots in the city. Since our family loves nature, I’d probably also suggest a day trip to the Everglades or even down to Key Largo for some fresh seafood and to enjoy the water.

Most evenings, we’d come back to the Grove, sit outside, talk with neighbors, maybe pick up some fresh orchids from the shop to brighten their trip home. To me, what makes Miami special isn’t just the big attractions, but the mix of cultures, the food, and the people. I’d want my friend to feel that — the same way my family and I have felt embraced here since we made Coconut Grove our home.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My biggest shoutout goes to my mother, Beatrice Elliott. She was the first one in our family to come to the United States back in the 1980s, long before the rest of us. Her courage and sacrifice laid the foundation for everything we have today. If she hadn’t taken that leap, I don’t think J.J. Orchids would even exist.

When I finally joined her years later, she welcomed me, encouraged me, and reminded me to never give up, no matter how hard things got. Even today, she still comes by the shop to help us, whether it’s watering plants, organizing, or just sharing her wisdom.

Of course, I also owe so much to my wife, Devika, and our children –Melissa, Kristena, and Nathan. This business is truly family-run, and everyone has pitched in at one time or another. But if I had to dedicate a special shoutout, it would be to my mother, because her strength is at the root of everything we’ve built.

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