Can you please share with the AILLEA audience a little background about yourself, both personally and professionally?
I have lived in New England my whole life and went to college in the beautiful Berkshires. My father was an educator and I followed in his footsteps by receiving my master’s degree in education. I balance running 28 Litsea with my full-time work as a middle school counselor. Mental health is very important to me which is why I wanted a brand that incorporated mind, body and wellness.
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What was your inspiration when initially launching the 28 Litsea brand?
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I started formulating products initially as a way to recharge from my job as a counselor. At that time, I started becoming more mindful of what I was putting in and on my body. I became more aware of the ingredients in many of the products I was using and started researching cleaner alternatives.
As a longtime migraine sufferer, through this process I also discovered that synthetic fragrance is a huge trigger for me so I became interested in essential oils.
The goal has always been to create a line of small-batch, high quality, multi-sensory products that are effective, affordable and most importantly, free of harmful chemicals. When someone experiences my products, I want them to feel the love and intention that went into creating them.
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Where does the name ’28 Litsea' come from?
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Litsea is an essential oil that I have always been drawn to because of its beautiful, bright and uplifting scent. It is such a versatile oil with anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to bring out the best in other ingredients.
The number 28 honors my dad whose birthday fell on February 28th. He was a huge source of support and major influence in my life.
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Which Petala Balm is your personal favorite flavor and why?
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Petala Balm comes in almond, lemon, peppermint, orange chocolate and vanilla spice. I tend to gravitate toward different scents depending on my mood and the season, but overall I find myself reaching for lemon most often. It is not a scent you typically find in lip balm and just makes me happy.
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Can you share any pro tips for how to use the Petala Balms?
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Petala Balm can be applied throughout the day and at night. Although great alone, it can be used as a lip primer. The simple step of using Petala Balm can become a special ritual in any routine and should make someone feel like they are slowing down and taking care of themselves.
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What are some of the hero ingredients featured in the 28 Litsea line?
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Babassu oil is definitely a hero product featured in Petala Balm and Melted Balm. It is lightweight, soothing and incredibly moisturizing. Meadowfoam oil is another exceptional ingredient found in our Top Note Body Oil and Blended With Flowers Exfoliant For Body. It is an extremely stable oil with a light and velvety texture. It hydrates and locks in moisture.
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Are there any new products that you will be launching soon? Can you share any details?
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I love the process of formulating new products and always have ideas running through my head. Our Top Note Body Oil is very popular. Its lightweight formula absorbs quickly and leaves you with the softest skin. A new scent will be launching very soon.
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What are your favorite non-28 Litsea products or brands at AILLEA?
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Josh Rosebrook, Osmia and Agent Nateur are brands/brand founders that I truly admire. Their products can all be found in my daily routine.
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