Today we’d like to introduce you to Tristyn Marrero.
Hi Tristyn, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised up north in Illinois. Around my early 20’s, a friend took me to The Morton Arboretum on a date. At the time I was an English major because I have a strong love for writing. Still, the career path didn’t bring me the joy I thought it would. For some that may not know, an Arboretum is a tree museum/garden. While we were there, we took a ride on the Acorn Express; a whimsical open bus touring the 1,700 acres. There were species from all over the world. As the guide started teaching us all these random facts about the trees, I had a revelation. This was the coolest thing I had ever learned about. I thought to myself, “This is fascinating! There has to be a job somewhere out there where I can work and care for trees”. That night, I searched the internet for tree careers and came across “Arborist”. In that moment, I switched my major to Arboriculture and that was that! The Morton Arboretum was one of my two internships as I worked in the research department on the grounds. Following my degree, I worked in the field for 10 years before becoming a stay at home mom and moving down to Tennessee. Fast forward, 2025, and I get the pleasure of being an Arborist again. As a freshly single mom, I knew I needed to do whatever I could to provide for my two boys. What other option is there than to do what I absolutely love? Starting “For Them Tree Services” has been such a blessing in our lives. We’ve had an abundance of love and support from our family and school community. I’d love to take all the credit but it took a pretty powerful village, a lot of prayer, and the immense grace of God. I did not walk this journey alone. He opened this door for me and I am beyond grateful. I love what I do, my boys are very proud of me, and that is a true sense of accomplishment.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
In the beginning of this journey, I was overwhelmed to say the least. It’s hard starting your own business, there are so many steps to take. The process felt exhausting. However, it would have been a lot harder without prayer, support, and encouragement. I got here because I didn’t walk alone. I took every opportunity given to me and when someone wanted to help, I let them. The strength doesn’t come from trying to do it all yourself. Real strength comes from trusting in God and the willingness to accept the hands that reach out to you. To take advice and ideas, even when you want to be stubborn because you think you know. It won’t get you anywhere. Leave yourself open to learn; to grow. Then eventually, you will soar.
We’ve been impressed with For Them Tree Services, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
For Them Tree Services is my business of horticulture. I prune and remove smaller trees, shrubs, and bushes. I cane roses, clean up beds, remove weeds and volunteer plants, and take away brush. I even plant and transplant younger trees and flowers. With a former background as a plant health care specialist, I also give PHC advice to my clients. I help in any way that I can. I am most proud of my brand because of what it represents. There is a lot of symbolism behind my logo in regards to my sons and the biggest reason why I do what I do. It is also my way of giving back, and that alone, drives me. I love God, people, plants, and teaching in the field.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I’m a nerd in this particular field so literally any tree book draws my attention. Not related to the field, I listen to a lot of podcasts. I gain so much appreciation, knowledge, and perspective by doing so. Also, filling my heart and mind with the right music, feeds my soul as well. The best advice I can ever give someone though, would be to pray. Pray always.
