Franchise Love At First Sight

When Conserva Irrigation hired a new PR agency, it got more than just a publicist—it found a passionate pair of franchisees.

- Stephanie Schomer

Ellie Lamonaca first entered the franchise world as a publicist, whose job was to help a franchise get media attention. But six years into her career, a new client captured her attention in a very different way. It was Conserva Irrigation, a sprinkler-system inspection and services company that helps homeowners and commercial properties cut down on water waste and bills. As a resident of South Florida, Lamonaca immediately understood the value of its business model—and saw opportunity. She texted her husband, Juan, and suggested they become Conserva franchisees, and in April 2017, the newlyweds opened their first territory, in Fort Lauder- dale. They’ve since grown into two territories and are eyeing a third, and they’ve learned the value of investing in a strong team, taking the time to understand an industry, and putting in the hard work.

Ellie, you spent years doing PR for franchises. What about Conserva Irrigation made you want to change careers?