Felton Summerville shares his inspiring journey from Monrovia, Liberia, to Fargo, North Dakota, via Minneapolis, where he was raised. He reflects on his early years, moving to the U.S. at just four years old, and the challenges of adapting to a new culture. Growing up in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, Felton held various jobs, from working in bars and moving companies to serving at Applebee’s in Fargo, before ultimately discovering his passion for landscaping.Felton details his unexpected entry into the landscaping business, starting with a job at Garden Pearl under Tony Randle in 2015. Initially indifferent to the work, he quickly grew to love the craft, particularly the creative aspects of working with pavers. Over time, he realized he could turn his newfound passion into a business. What started as a few side jobs mowing lawns soon became a full-fledged operation. Encouraged by the financial potential and personal satisfaction of working for himself, Felton took the leap, securing contracts and growing his clientele, with some early help from his mentor, Tony.Felton also discusses the challenges of self-employment, the transition from working under an employer to running his own company, and the mindset required to build a sustainable business. He emphasizes the importance of networking, seizing opportunities, and leveraging relationships—such as the connections he made while working at the Four Points by Sheraton, where he met clients who later became part of his growing business.
