Where are you from and does that affect your work?

Alicia | 3H Nails

I was born in China and raised in Walnut, California. This has allowed me to blend Western and Eastern artistic cultures, shaping my identity as an artist. My travels to various places have also inspired me to explore different styles in nail design creation.

Who/what is your biggest artistic influence?
In the current US nail design market, I predominantly see machine-made press-on nails. Even in nail salons, the range of designs offered is quite limited. My inspiration for change stems from this observation. When I examine those machine-made press-on nails, I feel they lack the soul of art. I am motivated to create nail designs that originate from an artist who is dedicated to designing increasingly beautiful nails. I also believe everyone deserve to have their own nail style.

We love that! How do you define success as an artist?

I view success as the capacity to creatively express oneself and derive personal fulfillment from one's work. It also involves connecting with and impacting an audience, whether through exhibitions, performances, or social media interactions.

Well said. What would you say is the hardest part of the creation process?

Keeping up with recent trends is the most challenging aspect for me. I can't just create nail designs that appeal to my personal taste; I also need to research new trends and adapt them to nail art. Additionally, since some nails can be quite small, drawing on them is also a tough task.

I bet that could be difficult, patience is key! How has your style changed over time?

Since I also offer customization, my styles have evolved significantly. Some of my designs are inspired by my 9-year-old daughter, who is a natural painter with a consistent passion for drawing and creating art pieces.

Very fun. What is your favorite piece that you have created and why?

My favorite creation is the 'Magical Kawaii Claws,' which holds a special place in my heart. This design was inspired by a drawing I made two years ago when my daughter was diagnosed with COVID-19 and had to stay in the Long Beach Children's Hospital for a week. Since I couldn't stay with her, I missed her terribly. To stay connected, I drew several pictures and wrote notes for her to read during her stay. The 'Magical Kawaii Claws' was her favorite among them. I believe the drawing gave her strength, helping her to recover and regain her health. This design brings back a flood of memories and love for me.

What do you love most about Pasadena?

I often visit Old Town Pasadena for shopping, as the city always exuded an artistic and cultural ambiance, particularly with its architectural styles. The primary reason I didn't relocate to Pasadena was due to the high housing prices. My favorite activity there is attending the Rose Parade, a colorful and festive event unmatched by any other location.

Anything special you’d like to share?

Last year, I created four nail collections: Mommy and Me, Teen Dream, Eclipse Edge, and Heart Hue. Currently, I'm working on my new collection inspired by the zodiac. I'm excited to share it with all the nail enthusiasts soon.

Catch 3H Nails at Jackalope Pasadena on April 27th & 28th, 2024.

Website: 3hnails.com

Instagram: @3h_nails_official

Jen of Blue Heron Body / Home

Where are you from and does that affect your work?  

Being raised on a hobby farm in Elk River, MN until I was 12 years old meant that I spent a lot of time outside…hunting for agates, running around in the yard, and climbing trees. We planted lots of flowers and vegetables and had chickens, cows and pigs. I loved spending time looking up at the trees and the sky and to this day draw a lot of inspiration from nature…trying to keep ingredients as close to natural as possible while creating soaps and scents that bring us closer to the outdoors.

How do you define success as an artist?

For me, success has a lot to do with priorities and values. Am I able to enjoy the journey of creating and running a business while loving my family and spending time with friends and recreating? Do my products help people in their own busy lives to spend some moments of rejuvenation feeling pampered and cleaner, calmer and cozier? Am I living and producing in a way that has minimal environmental impact and brings people closer to nature? Are we giving back in a way that makes a difference in the lives of women around the world? These are the things I think about when I’m defining success for me & Blue Heron Body Home.

Love the intention behind it all. How have you developed your skill at your craft?

Earning a BA in Chemistry from the University of MN Morris has certainly helped with skill and confidence in formulating and creating products. Also, having four children and a loving husband has helped with overcoming challenges in business. Family has been my anchor and allowed me to experiment with new ideas and creations over the years and I find myself making things that ease stress and bring relief.

What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why?

One of my favorite products is our bath butter melts. Baths hold a special place for me as I find lots of relaxation and calm in a candle lit bath. The melts are made from raw organic fair trade cocoa butter that supports the ladies in Ghana who hand process it. It is one of the smallest things (.3 ounces) I make, and it makes the biggest difference to my skin.  I enter the tub feeling tired and my skin feeling dry, and I emerge feeling relaxed and moisturized. They’re pretty great!

What do you love most about Minneapolis?

Minneapolis is one of the most beautiful cities and among the best places to live in the country! We have bike trails, walking trails, green spaces, access to water and transportation, a great food scene, and artists and orchestras!  It offers a place for everyone and is becoming more that way as time goes on which makes it hospitable and a great place to call home!

Catch Blue Heron Body Home at Jackalope Minneapolis on September 23rd & 24th, 2023.

Web: https://blueheronbodyhome.com

Instagram: @blueheronbodyhome

Lindy of Apothecary 19

Where are you from and does that have an affect on your work?  

I am originally from St. Louis, Missouri, but I have been living and working out of Northeast Minneapolis, Minnesota for over five years. While Minnesota is my home now, STL and all of its fun quirky bits will always be deeply ingrained in my soul.  The biggest way living and working out of NE Minneapolis has affected my work is just the monumental support of the community. There is this really great cooperative vibe to the maker/artist community in NE, and Minneapolis in general. One like I’ve never experienced. And, well, Minnesotans just love to support each other so that’s been the cherry on top of it all.

Very true! Who/what are your biggest artistic influences?

Oh boy. This is a hard one to answer. I’ve always been a bit mesmerized by other creatives in general - makers, artists, writers, musicians, etc. There is something profound in the ability to create something that causes others to feel and connect with their emotions. That admiration, and knowing I possess that same talent, inspires me to keep going when I might be in a slump.

When I sit down at my bench to create something new I draw inspiration from people, places, memories, books, music, or feelings and go from there. How do I turn this memory into a scent that evokes the same emotions I felt when I was living it? How do I make that resonate with others?

A certain scent can definitely take you back to a memory! How do you define success as an artist?

Creating things that I love that bring me joy. It's a bonus when other’s love them as well. As long as I’m making things for me and not just for others’ blind consumption, I’ll consider myself a success.

Does your art help you in other areas of your life?  

It’s a coping mechanism. I have CPTSD and I’m a very anxious person. Creating is the only time I can quiet my brain. If I’m having a hard time regulating my emotions or my brain is in overdrive, getting my hands busy quells the inertia and brings me back to earth. Even if, sometimes especially if, I have to make a hundred of something. I’ll put on some noise and just get to work. I only have to focus on creating and that takes me out of a loop.

I also love doing markets. If left to my own devices, I’d rarely engage in social activities so getting out in the community and meeting people that either make or appreciate art feels good. It is great to feel a part of a really interesting group of people.

Love that. How have you developed your skill overtime?

A lot of trial and error. When It comes to making things, there isn’t much that intimidates me or that I think I can’t do. So I’ll come up with an idea and try to make it work. When I get lucky it’s a home run the first time, other times I have to go back to the drawing board once or twice. I feel like the refining stage is where the growth really happens and I appreciate that. It would be boring if everything was easy.

The biggest and most helpful thing I’ve learned is when to say this isn’t going to work and it’s time to move on. I think that’s a pretty great lesson to apply to all areas of life.

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

When it comes to the actual making part, it is definitely the scent formulation. Whether I’m developing a scent for my regular line, a commission, or something that folks have strong opinions about, like a book character, I spend a lot of time and effort trying to get it right.

The other part of the process that can be challenging is the balance between creating and the other aspects of my life. Ask anyone who knows me well and they’ll tell you I’m a workaholic. When you’re lucky enough to have a job that doesn’t feel like work, striking that work/life balance can be really difficult.

How has your style changed over time?

My overall branding and offerings have been pretty consistent from the beginning. The biggest way my style has been transforming recently is where I draw my inspiration from. When I first started out, I focused mainly on memories, places, and seasons for my scent profiles. Now I’m sourcing more inspiration from books, music, and other aspects of my life instead of things that I know everyone loves or things that “make sense.”

It makes me think of that scene in The Devil Wears Prada when Meryl Streep’s character says, “florals for spring? How groundbreaking.” These days, I’m trying to stay away from the predictable. You can get that from Target.

What’s the best thing about being involved in the ?

Everyday brings something new and different, even if the process for everything is the same. My capacity for doing the same thing over and over is about two years. I learned this during my time in the trenches of corporate work. Being both self-employed and creative, I get to set the pace. If I get bored with something, which doesn’t really happen anymore, I just work on something else. I create something new. I don’t feel like a cog in a machine anymore.

What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why?

Scent No. 13. I am obsessed with all things Halloween, spooky season, and the Occult; the weirder the better. When I launched my first line of candles I purposely skipped No. 13 because I knew I wanted to save it for Halloween. Honestly, I think the scent description sort of speaks for itself.

No. 13 is a scent inspired by the path of night. A love letter to my absolute favorite season of the year - the season of the witch.

Homage to our aunties and to our grandmas who weren't witches, but were superstitious. 😉 To the thinning of the veil, and the return to the dark part of the year. A time for resolutions for the year ahead. A time for contemplation and rest after the harvest.

It's the smell of spells—incense, sweet tobacco, the crisp air of a full moon's night, and the cauldron's spent ashes.

What do you love most about Minneapolis?

Everything. My husband and I moved here from St. Louis to grow roots and start a family because it had everything we wanted - good schools, great parks, fun things to do. The vibes are just different here. It probably has something to do with the brutal winters, but Minnesotans genuinely love this place and that’s really fun to be a part of.

Anything special you’d like to share? 

One question I get asked the most is, “why are they all numbers?” I did this intentionally so that people aren’t influenced by a name. When you’re looking at a number and a handful of scent notes, you get to decide what it smells like, instead of me telling you. Not only does this help folks branch out from a familiar scent, it also makes for some really great conversations at markets. It’s one of my favorite parts of interacting with my customers.

Catch Apothecary 19 at Jackalope Minneapolis on September 23rd & 24th, 2023.

Web: www.apothecary19.com

Instagram: @apothecary19

Michelle of Dandelion Naturals

Where are you from and did that impact your work?  

We live in a very small farm community in SE Minnesota, about 90 minutes south of Minneapolis.  We live on a 10 acre homestead with chickens, cats, dogs, apple trees, and gardens (when we have the time). While it's not a quick and convenient drive to Minneapolis, we wouldn't trade country living for anything.  It's peaceful and offers us a place to rest from the busyness of life. 

Who/what are your biggest artistic influences?

Nature is my biggest influence! Nature offers us so many wonderful natural ingredients to use that enhance our health and heal our bodies. Nettle, Dandelion, Calendula, Yarrow are just a few ingredients that are available right here on our property that I use in our products. 

How do you define success as an artist?

Customer satisfaction and providing products that are unique and different from other makers. 

Does being a maker help you in other areas of your life?  

There is definitely something magical about doing work that you truly love. While it definitely has the 'grind' feel some days and has many highs and lows, getting to do something I believe in and am 100% passionate about for work is really a special thing. 

How have you developed your skill over time?

I simply don't give up. I keep trying until I'm satisfied.  I'm not ashamed to ask for help or advice.  I have failed at a particular type of soap process two times and haven't been able to perfect it yet.  I love to have a challenge to work at.  

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

I've never been fond of the saying "There's just not enough hours in a day." However, that feeling is truly the hardest part of owning my own business.  Going from hobby to business is another level; I have to prioritize my time to allow for creative work and product development. There are always 'business' things to do and they are generally not 'fun' things to do so it's vital to sketch out time to do the things that made me start this thing in the first place! 

What’s the best thing about being involved in the maker community?

Interacting with customers at shows and meeting other artists! And freedom with my time.  I'm busier than ever, but I have control over my schedule and there is no better feeling. I have a 4 year old daughter and this time with her is an answer to prayer. 

What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why?

Our cold process soap bars are made with 100% all natural ingredients and are made the old fashion way. They are what started Dandelion Naturals and they are truly unique. We offer a large selection of over 50 different options. Customers go nuts over how good they smell and feel on their skin.  We only use essential oils and we curate very unique blends that are different from other bars on the market. It's an amazing feeling when the smell and aesthetics of our booth at markets lure people in.  The unique smell of our product is always a great conversation starter. 

What do you love most about Minneapolis?

Opportunities! and all the beautiful people and the diversity. While I love living in the country, I look forward to my frequent travels to the cities. I've made so many new connections and friendships. I'm so grateful. 

Anything special you’d like to share? 

We are working on Shampoo and Conditioner bars for our next launch (date TBD)! We are so excited to offer this product.  I have been using them and they are a game changer.  No more huge plastic bottles taking up space in the bath. They are travel friendly and last a long time. And the best part is they are effective; my hair has never been healthier. 

Catch Dandelion Naturals at Jackalope Minneapolis on September 23rd & 24th, 2023.

Web: https://dandelionnaturals.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dandelion-Naturals

Instagram: @dandelion.naturals

Do you have a story behind your company name?

Yes! HINDES is the Old English spelling of my married name, Hynes. Historically, the name was given to families responsible for tending deer and it means "female european red deer.” You'll see a subtle nod to this within our logo, an H with deer ears.

That is so cool! Tell us how you got your start?

I've made my own skincare products using minimal, natural ingredients nearly my entire life. My products have been well-loved by family and friends. During the 2020 pandemic, I added CBD to my products for enhanced wellness and mood-boosting. By October 2021, I decided to make a business out of it!

We love what CBD can do for the body. Do you have a favorite part of the maker process?

My favorite part is creating new aromatherapy blends! Essential oils have tons of uses and layering them in different proportions can really change the scent profile. Testing new blends is my creative outlet.

Fun! Can you tell us what a typical day is like in the studio for you?

Notebooks galore! I make note of product recommendations and favorite scents that people have mentioned. From there, I review the healing properties of ingredients that would be best suited for the product I'm interested in creating. I'll write up several recipes to test. The fun part is the product testing! I'll fine-tune a recipe over several weeks until it is just right.

What inspires you to create?

Thinking of useful applications of ingredients, such as essential oils and CBD, inspires me to create. There's lots of room to play with aromatherapy profiles, types of products, and even how to use or apply certain products. My goal is to go beyond traditional avenues and to think differently!

Do you have a favorite item you have made?

My favorite product is the HINDES Skin Soother Body Spray. It's heavenly! While it's great throughout the year to moisturize dry, dull skin, it is specifically designed for after-sun skincare. It smells amazing - a mix of rose, lavender, and a hint of peppermint. The Skin Soother eases inflamed and irritated skin while adding a ton of moisture and it's light enough to layer under serums and lotions.

A must have for the lake days! Speaking of lakes, what do you love most about Minnesota?

Minnesota is an absolutely gorgeous state year-round, including all the lakes, hiking and biking trails, and even ice caves to explore!

What will you be bringing to Jackalope?

There are so many HINDES products available on our website, but I'm just not able to bring them all to market. You'll see our best sellers, such as Essential Oil Rollers, Extra Strength Body Oil for pain relief, Soaking Salts for relaxation, Diffusing Oil for aromatherapy, and plenty more!

We can’t wait to see you in person this September 10th & 11th for Jackalope Minneapolis!

Where to see more of HINDES:

Website | shopHINDES.com

Instagram | @shopHINDES

Do you have a story behind your company name?

After not feeling completely satisfied with my business name for a third time, I decided to take a walk to clear my head. It was a full moon that night and I jokingly said to myself, maybe I should change my name to The Moonery Collective. No, that's silly.. I looked up the definition when I got home and beside the obvious of mooning someone(!), I found that a "mooner" is a person who abstractedly wanders or gazes about. I have always been a daydreamer and get lost in thought. So the name stuck! It's a homage to all of those daydreamers out there!

Oh we love that! How did you get your start?

I have been dabbling in herbalism and creative processes for twenty years and in 2019, finally made it official. I am a professional archaeologist, and while that is a fun and fascinating career, I needed a creative outlet. My motto is "where science meets magick" slow fusion skin and ritual care, blending traditional herbal remedies I've learned over the years with fun, witchy ritual things like intention candles and bath items.

Definitely important to have balance. Do you have a favorite part of the maker process?

Coming up with an idea and then watching it unfold for both the successes and the ideas that didn't quite come out the way I planned. It is all part of the learning process.

Very true. Can you tell us what a typical day is like in the studio for you?

The first thing I do is sip herbal tea, take in a deep breath, and say, "You got this," then get the candle melter started. While that is heating up, I check orders and emails, as well as the low inventory list. Some days I just start creating without a routine and follow my heart. Other days I'm overwhelmed and sit on the couch ignoring it all!

What inspires you to create?

I love teaching people about my products and to encourage others to make or do what inspires them, even if it's been done a thousand times. I'm not re-inventing the wheel here. You can buy a candle or a salve from a lot of amazing people, but it's that connection and conversations that keep me going.

Love that. Do you have a favorite item you have made?

Lady From the Mountain (a line in a Stevie Nicks song, can you guess which one?) is my most popular candle. Made with my own wax blend of coconut, soy, and mango butter using only essential oils, it smells absolutely intoxicating and is so pretty to look at! The candle is adorned with botanicals and a crystal that corresponds to the candle to help set your intention. The candle is safe to use on your skin, too! But if I'm being practical and want to share my love of herbalism, then I would have to say the Colorado Crack Salve is my favorite. It's like a first aid for your skin! Great for dry, cracked hands and feet, minor cuts, bites, and even safe for healing tattoos.

What do you love most about Arvada?

I love seeing the mountains every day, it never gets old. Arvada is a cute town just down the road from Golden, where I live. Olde Town Arvada is really great - the shops, the food.. one of my favorite places to meet friends is The Bluegrass Coffee and Bourbon Lounge, there is something for everyone and the people are friendly.

We can’t wait to see you in person this August 5th & 6th for Jackalope Arvada!

Where to see more of The Moonery Collective:

Website | https://www.themoonerycollective.com/

Instagram | @the.moonery

Do you have a story behind your company name?

I have been very blessed throughout my life with regards to family, friends, health, work, sports, etc. Pretty much all areas of my life. I attribute all my successes as blessings and gifts from God. So, when it came to naming my company, I wanted to recognize and honor my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I chose FG&M, which stands for Frankincense, Gold & Myrrh. 

Frankincense, Gold, and Myrrh were the gifts the three wise men brought to the Christ Child, Jesus, in Bethlehem. These gifts were to honor him as King. In those days, frankincense, gold, and myrrh were highly valued and proper gifts for a king. Even today, these three elements are very valuable and quite expensive. Frankincense and myrrh have excellent therapeutic properties for skin and hair care products. And gold, well, gold speaks for itself. 

In designing my logo, I wanted a classic crest with a crown. Interestingly, the flower of the frankincense tree, Boswellia Sacra, looks like a crown, so, I asked my package designer to draw the crown of the crest to resemble the flower. The leaves on the sides of the crest are also in the shape of the leaves of the Boswellia Sacra tree. 

Very cool. Tell us more about how you got started?

After 24+ years as a Certified Public Accountant, I wanted a change in my life to do something different, something with my essential oils, something that would be healthy and good for people. I had been using essential oils for about eight years and had taken a couple of herbalist courses. I made various skincare serums and salves for myself and family, as well as herbal remedies for minor injuries and illnesses throughout these years. So, I retired from Public Accounting May 31, 2018, and set out to do something different.

I happened to buy my husband a natural shaving soap one day shortly after retiring from Public Accounting and noticed the ingredients – all natural and scented with essential oils. I thought, hmmm, I can make this. So, I started my soap making journey. After two and half years of researching, reading, formulating, and practicing, I launched FG&M Soapery’s website in October 2020. 

I learned early on in my research that the handcrafted soap industry was very much tailored to women. So, I decided to focus on men’s grooming products, as I had a great background to work with. I have a husband, a son, and two brothers, and I was always encouraging them to take care of their skin, and to use natural and organic products. So, focusing on men’s grooming came naturally with all the guys in my family. My husband and I are also avid golfers, so I had the benefit of having some of the men from the club evaluate products and give me feedback. 

We love that it is geared towards men, they need self care too! What inspires you to create?

I believe that the God given wisdom found in nature’s botanicals, salts, and clays hold the true properties and constituents our body needs to be clean, nourished, protected, and revitalized. Just as real food from the earth nourishes and sustains us on the inside, it is just as important what we put on the outside for nourished, healthy, vibrant skin and hair. This is what inspires me to create – all the wonderful bounty of plants, flowers, clays, and salts we were given to enjoy and use to keep our bodies looking good. 

That is inspiring. It is so important to consider what is in your skincare products. Do you have a favorite part of the maker process?

My favorite part of making my products is cutting the soaps. After making the soap, it stays in the mold for two days, and then another day or so after coming out of the mold before I cut it. I am always anxious to see it right away, but I know I need to be patient and let the soap saponify for a few days before seeing the end results.

Patience is not my strong suit, that would be challenging! What is a typical day like in the studio for you?

In making bath and body products, it is very important to follow Good Manufacturing Processes to ensure the products are as safe as possible.

In a nutshell, my day goes like this:

• Print out the product batch sheet

• Sanitize work area, equipment, and utensils

• Get out the ingredients and log the ingredient info on the batch sheet

• Weigh and mix ingredients for what is being made that day

• Record any notes on the batch sheet

• Clean up, wash equipment/utensils, and sanitize work area

Other tasks of the day include packaging and labeling finished products, fulfilling any online orders, or working on formulating new products.

Do you have a favorite item you have created?

My favorite creations are my salt soaps. I use real stones from nature as my inspiration and try to design the soaps to look like the stones. Theses soaps are difficult to make for two reasons; 1) salt soap sets up very quickly, so I must work fast, and 2) it was challenging to get the colors right. I only use plants or clays as color, so getting the colors close to the natural stones’ color was a challenge. I often display the actual stones next to the salt soaps in my booth.

That is so unique! Do you have anything special that you will be bringing to Jackalope?

In addition to my current product range of shaving soaps, beard oil, mustache wax, bath soaps, and lip balm, I will be bringing a special limited addition Jackalope Soap. 

Love it!! What do you love most about Pasadena?

That is a hard question because there are so many things that make Pasadena a great city. If I had to pick one thing, I would say it is the arts - the museums, botanical gardens, and of course the most wonderful natural art display ever – the Rose Parade.

We can’t wait to see you in person this April 23rd & 24th in Old Pasadena!

Where to see more of FG&M Soapery:

Website | https://fgmsoapery.com/

Instagram | @fgmsoapery

Do you have a story behind your company name?

 Yes.  I wanted a name with true meaning, not only for my customers but for myself. I wanted my name to inspire me, and that was a bit of a challenge.  One night my husband Tim and I were going back and forth with name ideas and all of a sudden he blurted out "Bella Botanicals!?" When the words came out of his mouth I was like "perfect!" 

Bella = Beautiful and Botanicals = Nature .... And our slogan is (Naturally Beautiful Skincare)!!  We think nature is beautiful, we think skin is beautiful, we think women are beautiful, and we wanted a name that supported that. I was thrilled when I saw Bella Botanicals wasn’t trademarked and I hopped on the paper trail to snag it. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to nab it on social media and for our URL, so we went with mybellabotanicals for those.

We love that! Tell us more about how you got started? 

I got started by attending a local workshop on soap making. I made batches upon batches of soap,  both solid and liquid.  After that I started making body butter and lip balms. When I realized I wanted to get serious about formulating I enrolled into Formula Botanica and got my certification for Organic Skincare Formulating. From there I really worked hard to figure out what formulas I wanted to offer to the general public. I really wanted to grow organically and let my customers drive the brand.  After one year in the business I was able to cut back to part time as an xray technician and began to throw the majority of my time into bringing Bella to life. Although I'm still laying the groundwork for where I want my brand to go, I'm excited to say that I have a thriving business. 

What inspires you to create, why did you turn to body care products?

Knowing that through this business I give women confidence to be their authentic selves. One of our main pillars is assisting women with finding their confidence in the nude (aka without makeup). There are far too many things that demoralize females into thinking their beauty is defined by how much they can canvas over their true selves, and we’re here to say “F” that. I want makeup for women to be the exception, not the rule. I also thrive on educating women about their skin. There are so many wonderful products to choose from, however identifying what works best for your skin can be challenging. I work with many women to cultivate a skincare routine that works best for them so that they’re able to see the results they want.

What’s a typical day like for you in the studio? 

A typical day starts on the computer checking emails and scheduling posts. Then I'll pack orders and run them to the post office. After all that is completed for the day I'll restock items that are low, and order inventory. I usually get so wrapped up in my work that I often forget about lunch until 1 or 2. It can be difficult to not get lost in work when it’s something you’re so passionate about.

Do you have a favorite part of your maker process?

I absolutely love learning about new botanical skincare ingredients and experimenting with them. There are so many lovely plants out there that can do absolute wonders for the skin, and I want to experience every single one. 

What about a favorite item that you have created?

My all time favorite product is my Organic Under-Eye Roller with CBD. This product has made a world of difference for me personally. I used to NEVER leave the house without concealer on. I had dark circles and wrinkles around my eyes that really made me feel self conscious. This product has not only lightened the darkness under my eyes, but it's greatly helped to diminish the fine lines and wrinkles around my eye area, as well as reduce puffiness. (thank you CBD) I call it #betterthanbotox!! The beauty of this product is that it's 100% natural and organic. It's an oil based formula so there's no preservatives needed, and it's super gentle so that ANY skin type can use it. 

That sounds amazing! What will you be bringing to Jackalope? 

I'll be bringing my three step skincare routine, the eye roller, cbd salve, and natures kiss lip balm. 

Now that events are picking back up again, is there a part that you missed most?

I absolutely thrive on in person human interaction. I love getting one on one time with customers to talk about their skin. Skin is personal, and having that one on one to really delve into a woman's insecurities is incredibly important. I also love the people I meet. Some of the vendors I've met at shows have become close friends. It really is a lovely community of people that are hard working and inspiring. 

What do you love most about Minnesota? I love it’s natural beauty. It's such an incredible landscape that offers so much for nature lovers.. I love the local breweries, the shops, and the culture. People in MN are always so friendly.

Anything special you’d like to share?  

As a child and young adult, I struggled to find my beauty. I put my time and energy into things and people that were ultimately destructive, all because I couldn't figure out how to love myself. My journey to self love is ultimately what led me to start this brand. Truly loving myself gave me the power to come into my own truth, and I want this same thing for all women. I want to inspire women and girls of all ages to love themselves for who they are instead of what society tries telling them to be. To connect with their true nature, whatever that may look like. I want women to stop viewing self care as "selfish" but as a necessity for harnessing true happiness and peace. Women are asked to do so much in this world, and we've constructed this ideal that in order to be loved we need to be perfect. It's just not realistic nor is it healthy. Bella is my platform to touch women with this message. We’re more than just a company selling beauty products, we’re on a mission to change the way the world sees beauty.
Another thing worth mentioning is that we formulate some of our products with CBD. CBD is known to be anti-inflammatory, analgesic (skin numbing), and a potent antioxidant. We utilize it in our leave-on products so that the body can get the full effect of this potent botanical ingredient. 

We love your mission and why you create- so inspiring! We can’t wait to see you in person this October 2nd & 3rd when Jackalope makes our debut in the Twin Cities!

Where to see more of Bella Botanicals:

Website | www.mybellabotanicals.com

Instagram | @mybellabotanicals

Jake: Owner and Creator of Two Ravens Soap Company

We have to ask, do you have a story behind your company name?
Two Ravens Soap Company was inspired by a ski documentary where a backcountry ski guide and a guest perished in a tragic avalanche accident. The next season, the owners of the outfitter came back to their lodge to open it up for the season and there was a raven flying around. They saw it as a good omen and named it after the guide that perished. The raven would greet them every morning, fly above them while out skiing and came back every season after that. The movie had quotes from a book called The Ravens End by Ben Gadd. I HAD to read this book and was absolutely inspired by them and how intelligent they are. How they're protectors of those who adventure out in nature, as well as all the lore behind them in Native cultures.

Ravens truly are amazing creatures! Tell us more on how you got started?

I had just quite my management job at a major retailer and was burned out on corporate management roles from the previous twenty years. I knew I was crafty and could start a small business with the passion I have for entrepreneurship. So I started thinking about what I could do. I am a huge fan of craft soaps and natural body care products and was having a hard time finding products specifically for men. Whether it was more woodsy and masculine scented products, or just products to help my body; beard care, outdoorsy lifestyle, etc. I took two months off of working after I left the corporate world to research soap making, the recipes, how-to's, equipment needs, the industry as a whole, etc. I started with some small batches just to give to family and friends, and after a couple rounds of production and great feedback, the business ideas, licensing and other exciting things that go into starting a business began. I officially launched my business in February of 2014 based out of my home in Littleton, Colorado.

What inspires you to create?

The mountains that surround me is the pure inspiration I get on a daily basis. Colorado is full of unique places to adventure. Part of the fun of exploring this beautiful State is the sights and smells you come across from just a simple hike or a big backcountry ski trip. I am very much tied to the correlation between sight and smell and use that as inspiration every time I create a new soap or product. No two experiences in the Rocky Mountains are the same. Just like my product lines.

What is your favorite part of the process?

Each time I make a soap, there's an artistic process that goes into it. From the scent blending, to color options, swirls, and the fancy tops, each aspect has an artistic flare. It's very intentional on my end, and the part I love the most about making soaps. Even coming up with new recipes for beard care, or body sprays, etc can all have a creative touch and unique, Two Ravens, spin on it. From branding to product line to scents, the Two Ravens Soap Company vibe is very unique and stands out amongst the crowd.

Do you have a favorite item you have created?

Out of all the product lines I create, I'm most excited to show off my bar soaps. Each one is unique from the scent blend, to the colors to the herbs I put on top. They truly are pieces of functional art and it's a very enjoyable process for me. Then comes all the feedback once I have them out on my displays for sale.

Take us through a typical day in the studio for you?

Usually I'm up and having coffee, feeding dogs and tidying up the kitchen first thing in the morning. Then I get to shipping any orders from the day prior as well as getting social media posts out there right away. After those are completed, if there's any emails to follow up on or messages on social media to reply to, I'll take care of those. I keep a list on a dry-erase board in the kitchen to prioritize my week of production. There's many steps to the soap making process that have to be done in a certain and timely fashion. Once I plan and prioritize my day, I get after it; weigh out the oils for the day, get the lye solution blended and into the cooling stage, gathering any soap molds I need, or specialty equipment, and then essential oils and colorants needed. Once everything has gotten to their proper temperatures for production, then it's off to the races. Each batch of soap happens really quick once the oils and solutions are at proper temp. Then it's just blending, pouring, topping and putting the slab mold on a shelf to start the curing process overnight. After each batch the equipment and kitchen get cleaned up to start the next. And as the saying goes, rinse; repeat. The end of my day is putting equipment away for the evening and preparing the kitchen for dinner. But first, a craft beer as my reward for the day.

In prepping for Jackalope, what will you be bringing to show in Olde Town Arvada?

I'm excited to bring my full lineup of natural bar soaps, beard care, body/bath care and more! I've launched a couple new product lines this year including my solid dish soap setup, Denali Dish Soap. It's an eco-friendly way to wash your dishes without the plastic bottle, chemicals and blue colored liquids soaps we've been so used to using our whole lives. I've also launched a Van Life edition that's easy to take with you on your camping adventures, or if you're dedicated to living in your van and working wherever the nearest road brings you.

What did you miss most about in person events?

During the pandemic in 2020, I was lucky enough to be part of the local farmer markets that I typically vend at. It was SO good to be in public, even with all the safety measures in place. But what I really missed was my fellow craft vendors. The painters, leather-makers, potters, jewelers, etc. I missed the vibe of that type of market and the customers that attend. I am so lucky and appreciative that I was even able to attend markets in 2020, and am even more excited this season that craft fairs and artisan markets are back. It's a different vibe from a farmer market, and so much fun.

We missed everyone so much too! And final question, what do you love most about Colorado?

I love everything about Colorado! The mountains are the biggest inspiration in my life, but I love how easy it is to get into any type of fun here. Plus you're not that far away from literally anything you'd like to do. The husband and I get into skiing at the local resorts such as Arapahoe Basin and Keystone, to backcountry adventures off of Berthoud Pass. Mountain biking at Keystone and Winter Park Resort is always a blast, as are just easy hiking days accessed by their respective gondolas. The dogs LOVE to ride the gondola and go for a hike. Best part is the ride back down when everyone is tired and ready for dinner and a beer. There's also plenty of lakes and rivers to get the kayaks into during the summer. Camping on National Forest land? YES! Hiking on the trails within the foothills of our neighborhood association? Absolutely! Plus we're just a few short miles away from the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheater. Concerts and movies and hiking abound all right there at this world-renowned venue.

We can’t wait to see you in person this September 18th & 19th when Jackalope takes over Olde Town Arvada. See you soon!

Where to see more of Two Ravens Soap Company:
Website | www.tworavenssoap.com

Instagram | @tworavenssoap

1. How did you get your start in the handmade community?

As a child I grew up in the environment of makers, enjoying the company of my dad while he crafted wooden toys for us and seeing grandpa make household items; learning alongside grandma while she patiently knitted yet another pair of socks; or being by her side in the outdoor kitchen watching 3 gallons of sour cherry jam bubble on the stove. Nothing seemed impossible and I also wanted to make everything.

2. What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own? 

I formulate my skincare from scratch by researching hundreds of ingredients and being inspired by nature's bounty and the physical properties of botanicals. I love creating very complex formulas with dozens of natural and exotic ingredients that harmonize to make a final product. 

3. What or Who Inspires you? 

I've always wanted to be a botanist and be surrounded by plants, to care for them and to watch them grow from seeds. I still think it's magical and my garden is full of saplings. I love knowing about the plants I use, where they originate, how they are harvested, where they are grown. I don't chase the latest trends; all formulations are the result of true inspiration and passion for botanicals. 

4. What is your creative process like?

The inspiration for a product typically arises from necessity. I imagine what would be nice to use, then do research to see what ingredients have qualities to suit that need. I love creating my formulas, which are quite intricate and involved. After working with biotech companies as a interior designer for 8 years, I've observed so many manufacturing processes that prove very handy right now. Calculating a formula and ingredient proportions is probably my favorite thing to do. I start by making few test batches, refine the formula and proceed to preparing the products for final pictures, write ups and presentations. There's a lot of technical know-how involved, and I love every aspect of the process. Later comes picture taking which as a designer by training I enjoy very much. All aspects of the process truly fulfill my passion for making things and being in sync with nature and health.

5. What can we expect to see from you at Jackalope?

All the classics and all the new products which I'm very excited about.  Perhaps some free samples. I may play a little giveaway game prior to the event. We shall see. 

6. Where can we learn more about you?

The best place to learn about me is on Instagram where I post my daily maker's life through a lens. Occasionally you'll see my kids and healthy cooking,  in addition to the skincare making craft. There's a quick write up about me on the LENUS website, as well as my Etsy page.