INSIDE THE BOX: BIRCHROSE + CO.
What is the name of your company?
Birchrose + Co
When was the company founded?
March 2014
Tell us the story of how you brought your company to life.
I started Birchrose + Co out of my kitchen in early 2014. While juggling working a full-time corporate job and raising two kids I was inspired to create something of my own, something that allowed me the flexibility to not have to miss any of my kids' school plays, sports games, and award shows while investing time in my hobby, natural body care, and wellness.
How did you feel after it launched?
Launching my company was a constant rollercoaster of complete bliss to utter panic and fear. Things gained momentum pretty quickly, I had launched in every Urban Outfitters and PacSun in America within for first 2 years, which was amazing but pretty scary for a new business owner. I had been invited to display at AXIS and Capsule Beauty in NYC so I really felt like I was doing the damn thing, with that also came imposter syndrome.
Where do you draw your design inspiration from?
I have a business degree and before Birchrose I was a Graphic Designer – I’ve always admired a clean black-and-white aesthetic so the brand design came naturally to me.
Why was it important to you to create an “out and proud” LGBTQ+ company?
I believe everybody should feel comfortable and safe being themselves wherever they are and doing what they love.
Was there a defining moment in your company’s history (so far) when you knew you created something special?
My “ah ha” moment was my first feature (unpaid advertising) in Glamour magazine – I can’t even explain the excitement I felt driving to Barnes and Noble to pick up the issue and seeing MY brand that I created in print. It gave me full confidence I was walking the path I was meant to.
What has been the reaction of customers to your brand?
We’ve had a really good response from customers, they come for the aesthetic and stay for the quality. There’s nothing better than a pretty product on your shelf that you actually love using.
Any special customer stories that you want to share?
The one that stands out the most is a gentleman walking around my retail store with his wife, just browsing around while she shopped. I see him casually sniffing candles, then he sets one down and lifts it back up again to sniff. He then walked to me at the front desk asking about the scent, he said it reminded him of visiting his grandmother who had passed away in France. He smelled it again with tears in his eyes and said he wanted to purchase it – his wife came up shocked wondering why he was in tears. It was so touching my eyes were watering, it just reminded me of the power scents and memory have, it was really a special moment.
At Fruitloots, we call all the amazing products that we find our “loot”. What's your favorite piece of “loot” you have created?
It's so hard for me to pick one because I use ALL my products, but my current morning go-to is the Botanical Glow Crème” and our Big Sur Candle – the scent is heavenly and it reminds me of an amazing road trip I had there a few years ago.
Tell us about the Fruitloots products that we have chosen.
Coconut + Hibiscus Bath Soak is a long-time customer fav! The scent is heavenly and botanicals make every bath feel like a spa day. Our body polishes are perfect for dry skin, they exfoliate, nourish and improve skin texture with bright uplifting scents.
Where do you see your company in 10 years?
On the horizon is BODY by Birchrose Studio which will be opening this fall! I am certified in Aromatherapy, Wood Therapy, Body Sculpting, Lymphatic Massage, and Heat Therapy Facials – so I am very excited to be able to offer those services as well as retail all my products in the new space. In 10 years I hope to expand this vision with a bigger space and multiple locations.
Any advice to queer entrepreneurs?
Don’t be afraid of failures, the lows make the highs that much more rewarding. Look at every misstep as a learning moment and continue to write and revisit your business plan as your goals change. The biggest tip, when things get hard remember your WHY – because business ownership is not for the faint of heart.
If you could throw a party, with an unlimited budget and you could invite anyone, tell us about the party and who would be there!
I tend to prefer more intimate gatherings and appreciate my small friend group. I would say a party with my close friends and family with musical appearances by Frank Ocean, The Weeknd, and Lana Del Rey - with food by my favorite Tik Tok food account Freddster
Last question, If you could be any fruit, what would it be and why?
I would definitely be a pineapple! A little rough on the outside but sweet on the inside, always wearing a crown, and most importantly adaptable and diverse! Pineapple on pizza, kebobs, desert, with green juices, she has no limitations to her capabilities!
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BIRCHROSE + CO. AND TO CHECK OUT THE REST OF THEIR COLLECTION, CLICK HERE
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Photos courtesy of Birchrose + Co.