How Two HR Professionals Started a Pumpkin-Display Business: My Front Porch
The Genesis of My Front Porch
Rebecca Paxton and her cofounder Jen Carmichael were both working at a Fortune 100 company when they stumbled upon the idea for their pumpkin-display business, My Front Porch. Seeking more flexibility in their lives while navigating personal and professional challenges, the duo decided to take a leap into entrepreneurship.
A New Venture Takes Shape
The idea came when Jen saw a pumpkin display at her neighbor’s house, which had been ordered from a local business. Intrigued, she attempted to place her order, only to find that the service was already sold out for the year. This experience inspired a lighthearted conversation with Rebecca about starting their own pumpkin business.
Transitioning from Corporate Life
In late 2024, both women made the decision to leave their respective corporate jobs. With personal reasons prompting the shift—Rebecca had just welcomed her second child, while Jen was navigating family challenges—they launched My Front Porch in January 2025.
Building the Business
Together, they established their LLC and operational logistics, including their website and social media presence. They aimed for an exceptional level of service, leveraging their robust backgrounds in HR and recruitment.
From Seed to Success
By July 2025, My Front Porch was ready to take orders. The business saw solid success right away, with a shipping arrival of pumpkins in mid-September. The two cofounders experienced an overwhelming demand but were ready for it, carefully planning their inventory and understanding their supply chain logistics as essential components of their setup.
Financial Commitment and Growth
Each invested $25,000 into the business, ordering semi-truckloads of pumpkins and renting climate-controlled storage. They aimed for scalability, knowing they wanted My Front Porch to be not only fulfilling but also financially viable. Their first year sales exceeded $70,000, and they were on track to surpass $120,000 in the subsequent year.
Navigating Logistics
Despite the initial high expectations, the operational demands quickly became apparent. From managing installations to coordinating deliveries, the complexity of their business model required innovation and adaptability.
Community and Word-of-Mouth Marketing
They utilized social media to share their mission while also employing word-of-mouth strategies. Rebecca and Jen reached out to friends and neighbors to help spread the word, enhancing community engagement.
Providing a Rewarding Experience
The hands-on work was physical, involving early mornings and long hours during peak seasons. However, the two found solace in the flexibility and pleasure of running their own business.
Giving Back
Alongside their business success, Paxton and Carmichael were committed to giving back to the community by partnering with nonprofits and spreading joy through their pumpkin displays.
Looking Ahead
With the Dallas market full of potential, they were excited about the opportunity to expand further, whether by adding more seasonal offerings or exploring new geographic areas. Their ability to pivot and respond to market needs seemed key to their ongoing success.
My Front Porch embodies the spirit of adaptability and community connection, showing how two former corporate professionals found joy in entrepreneurship.
