Today we’d like to introduce you to Corinne Nanfeldt.
Hi Corinne, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
First and foremost, I’m a mom to three incredible little humans. While I have a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, my dream was to stay home and raise my babies, just like my mom did. “Mom” will forever be my favorite title. It’s a role I wouldn’t trade for the world, but as so many women can relate, it’s also one of the hardest.
After having three babies in four years, I found myself struggling with my mental health. Between postpartum, stress, hormones… I eventually hit a breaking point. Two years ago, I was diagnosed with anxiety and OCD. Looking back, what felt like rock bottom at the time became the foundation I needed to build myself back up.
During that season of my life, I found a new love for being outside. There was something about being outdoors that brought me a sense of peace. That summer, I started watering our garden beds every night while my husband put the kids to bed. Before I knew it, I was completely invested in my hydrangeas and wondering if I should cut back the rose bushes.
And then I thought, maybe I should try growing my own flowers.
I figured that if anything actually grew, I could always sell them at our roadside stand. So I started ordering seeds, plant lights, and heating mats. I bought an online course on how to start a flower farm.
Just this past March, On the Compound was born.
The name is a nod to my family’s farm, which I live right next door to. What started as something small and therapeutic for me has grown into something I’m incredibly proud of. I primarily operate out of our roadside stand, but you can also find us at local vendor events. We offer mason jar arrangements, hand-tied bouquets, and occasionally a “Build Your Own Bouquet” bar. We’re also in the process of expanding into seasonal home and garden décor.
What started with a few flower seeds has become so much more than I ever expected. It’s given me something that is mine, a creative outlet, and a reason to get outside and slow down. And I’m so excited to see where it takes us next!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but honestly, I’m grateful for that. If everything had come easily, I wouldn’t have learned nearly as much as I have.
I’m only halfway through my first official flower season, and I’m learning something new every day — what I could have done differently, what I want to grow more of, what I probably won’t grow again next year, and everything in between. There’s definitely been some trial and error, but that’s also part of the fun!
And then there’s the balancing act of it all. I’m still “Mom” first. There are still days when I’m up against my OCD and the challenges that come with it. Some days are harder than others. But if I’ve learned anything, it’s that the hard seasons don’t have to define you. Sometimes, they’re what make you stronger and truthfully, more grateful for where I am now.
As you know, we’re big fans of On the Compound LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
As of right now, On the Compound is a micro flower farm and boutique. Our customers know us for our roadside stand and flower arrangements, but what they may not realize is that this is really just the beginning. This fall, we’ll be adding pumpkins, cornstalks, and mums to the mix, and before we know it, we’ll be selling Christmas trees!
As I said, “On the Compound” is a nod to my family’s farm. My dad has been selling Christmas trees there for more than 30 years through his own business, G&G Landscaping Inc. This year, I’m excited to take that over and bring it under my own company name.
I should probably mention that everything that happens “On the Compound” — and I mean the entire compound — is very much a family affair. That’s one of the things that makes this so special to me. I have an incredible family behind me, always willing to lend a hand, answer a question, or cheer me on when I need it.
We’re also lucky enough to be located in the sweetest little hometown of Columbus, surrounded by some of the best neighbors and fellow entrepreneurs! The community itself is family, and I feel truly grateful to be a part of it.
What makes you happy?
Besides my sweet little family? I think I have to say flowers!
Who doesn’t love getting flowers?! There’s just something so special about receiving them. I think flowers can say so much without saying anything at all. They can say I love you, I’m proud of you, I miss you, congratulations — or simply, I saw these and thought of you.
Now, I get to be the middle (wo)man in all of that.
I get to grow the flowers, put them together, and help someone send a little bit of love to another person. That makes me happy!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.onthecompound.com
- Instagram: @corinneonthecompound
- Other: corinne@onthecompound.com
