Navigating Business Partnerships After Divorce: Zooey Deschanel and Jacob Pechenik's Journey
Ex-couple Zooey Deschanel and Jacob Pechenik open up about successfully managing their business venture, Lettuce Grow, even after their divorce Discover how they navigate this unique partnership in the ever-changing world of entrepreneurship
Zooey Deschanel and her ex-husband Jacob Pechenik have successfully navigated their post-divorce relationship as business partners. In a recent interview with Inc. Magazine, Pechenik, 51, discussed their joint venture, Lettuce Grow, which they launched in 2019 following their split. The company sells vertical farmstands for consumers to grow their own food at home.
Pechenik expressed concern about how he and Deschanel would manage the business with their new dynamic. "I was worried that employees would be scared and uncertain about what this meant for the company and for me," he said.
Following the duo's split in 2020, Lettuce Grow experienced a surge in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic as more people began to explore home gardening. Deschanel had previously promoted the venture on her social media, but Pechenik was uncertain about her future involvement in the business.
“Before, I used to ask less of her,” he said. "Part of it was due to our previous marriage and our children. I didn't want to put too much pressure on our relationship. And part of it was that the business was successful enough without needing her support."
Now Pechenik is in charge of the day-to-day operations at Lettuce Grow, while Deschanel continues to enthusiastically share updates about the company on her social media platforms. "I love talking about Lettuce Grow because I'm proud of the company," Deschanel told Inc. "I think my excitement is contagious because it's genuine."
Deschanel and Pechenik crossed paths while working on the 2015 movie Rock the Kasbah alongside Bill Murray. They publicly announced their engagement in January 2015 and exchanged vows in June of that same year. The pair revealed their separation in September 2019 through a joint statement, expressing that they have decided to remain friends. They have two children together, daughter Elsie Otter, 7, and son Charlie Woolf, 5.
Deal of the Day
You'll Want To Splash Around in These Bestselling Hunter Rain Boots
View Deal
Deschanel has now moved on with Property Brothers star Jonathan Scott, whom she met in 2019 while filming an episode of Carpool Karaoke. The couple announced their engagement in August, with Deschanel sharing the news on Instagram with a heartfelt post that read, “Forever starts now.” She also included a selfie with Scott, 45, showcasing her stunning engagement ring.
Since then, they have become a blended family, often going on vacations with Scott and their children, as reported by Inc. Pechenik spoke highly of their relationship, stating, “Our relationship is a 10 out of 10.”
