Our Story
Nestled in the heart of the Cowichan Valley, the Old Farm Garden Centre has been a beloved destination for gardening enthusiasts for over 20 years. In 2021, Nanette, along with her daughter Allysa, took the helm of this long-standing business, bringing new energy and a shared vision for it's future.
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As a mother-daughter-led team, Nanette and Allysa have blended their unique talents and passions to evolve the garden centre into what it is today. Central to their mission is a commitment to sustainability and community. They believe that gardening is not just about growing plants, but about creating a deeper connection to the earth and to one another. This belief is reflected in every aspect of their work, from products they offer to events they host.
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Their passion for gardening is deeply rooted in family. Nanette's late mother, Vera Eberle, is the heart and inspiration behind both of their green thumbs. Vera's love for nurturing plants and creating beauty in the garden lives on in Nanette and Allysa, driving them to honour her legacy by building a space where everyone can share in the joy of gardening and connect with nature.
Meet The Team
Nanette Best
Meet Nanette, the heart and soul behind the Old Farm Garden Centre. With a deep passion for her community as well as gardening, Nanette has dedicated herself to creating a welcoming space where everyone can connect with nature. Her vision is to inspire and support fellow gardeners, ensuring that each visit to the garden centre is a joyful and enriching experience.
Allysa Simmons
Meet Allysa Simmons, the "crunchy" creative force behind the Old Farm Garden Centre's digital presence. With a strong commitment to sustainability, Allysa blends her love for nature and creative talents in the hopes of engaging and inspiring the gardening community. Her work reflects her belief in cultivating a greener, more connected world, one garden at a time.