In this encore episode host Michael LeBlanc sits down with Carson Arthur, television personality and founder of Carson’s Garden & Market in Prince Edward County. Carson shares how he transitioned from brand builder at Procter & Gamble to HGTV design star and finally to small business retail owner. From global sourcing trips to pandemic-driven tourism spikes, Carson reflects on the highs and lows of retail entrepreneurship while offering invaluable advice to indie retailers and policymakers alike
On this encore episode Michael LeBlanc welcomes Carson Arthur, media personality and independent retailer, and the founder of Carson’s Garden & Market in Prince Edward County. Carson’s career journey is anything but traditional—moving from launching brands at Procter & Gamble, to building a television career as a design and gardening expert, and now into the world of retail entrepreneurship.
Carson shares the inspiration behind launching his own store, Carson’s Garden & Market, a destination nestled among wineries and breweries in Prince Edward County. Designed to showcase the gardening products and tools he loves most, the store reflects his philosophy of bringing joy to outdoor spaces while educating customers on the beauty and practicality of kitchen gardens and edible ornamentals.
He offers a behind-the-scenes look at how he sources unique products from around the world, including gardening innovations from the UK, Japan, and Europe, while balancing a commitment to local Canadian suppliers. Carson also candidly discusses the challenges and opportunities of retailing through the pandemic. While many businesses struggled, Prince Edward County became a tourism hotspot, doubling his sales during peak years before settling into a post-pandemic reality where customer expectations and buying cycles continue to evolve.
Carson reflects on the lessons learned as a small business owner—how to stay true to a business model, the importance of building a loyal customer base, and the realities of managing growth in uncertain times. He also offers pointed advice for governments and financial institutions about the critical role of small businesses in Canada’s economy, urging more support during the early years when entrepreneurs are most at risk.
For aspiring retailers, Carson shares his “two starts and one stop”:
-Start by investing in your customer base.
-Start by becoming an active member of your community.
-Stop wearing rose-coloured glasses—always plan for downturns as much as growth.
Looking ahead, Carson is doubling down on the kitchen garden trend, helping Canadians rethink their backyards as spaces for food security and beauty. His focus on educating consumers about growing edible ornamentals positions his business at the intersection of sustainability, lifestyle, and retail innovation.