As a child I was always drawn to the treasure of cosmetics, lotions and potions that could always be found in the bathroom of my mother and grandmother. From high end to drug store brands, I quickly discovered that most personal care products were lacking quality. I learned to mix a little of this with a dab of that to yield the perfect combination of texture, scent and efficacy. Later I would discover that, like my customers, I also wanted quality products that were safe, natural, and easily accessible.
At sixteen my father, like so many during that time, died from complications of the AIDS drug AZT. During his last days I watched in horror as he was served meal after meal of poor quality hospital food that he could neither chew nor digest. I was aware that I could not save his life, but I was convinced that there had to be better alternatives to foster a smoother transition.
Thus began my passion for holistic medicine and my determination to find natural alternatives for the demands of daily modern life. Fueled by my father’s story, I went on to receive a Masters degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine (acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutrition, integrative medicine) and open a private practice specializing in pain relief, women’s health and skin disorders.
Through servicing my patients, I discovered that there was a great need for accessible quality personal care products made with simple natural ingredients. So, I created them and The Healing Place Apothecary was born. Reflected in the product line, my Bay Area upbringing is heavily inspired by diversity in nature, spirituality, music, food and culture. These influences are the heart of my work and inspire me to inspire others.
This loan is special because:
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Business Description
The Healing Place Apothecary is a manufacturer of plant based skin and hair care products that are rooted in holistic principals. Our products are produced locally in small batches using premium natural ingredients.
I’m Nubian Flunder, the founder and formulator for The Healing Place Apothecary. As an herbalist, holistic educator and acupuncturist of 20+ years, our formulations are steeped in holistic principals from Asia, Africa and the Americas. The genesis of The Healing Place Apothecary is the commitment to bring awareness to the immense benefits of natural beauty products that are both good for the body and for the environment.
Our brand seeks to bridge the gap between the modern world and the natural world. To demonstrate that we can prioritize our wellness and respect our planet, while being chic, savvy and fabulous. Based in Oakland, CA, we proudly use 85% eco friendly packaging and 98% natural ingredients that are sourced regionally when available.
We are excited to provide jobs and entrepreneurial exposure to local youth and people of color in an environment where quality education and employment opportunities can seem out of reach. The Healing Place Apothecary prioritizes our support of economically healthy and vital communities.
What is the purpose of this loan?
Strengthen Customer Retention: Offering a subscription service that allows our loyal customers and new converts to automatically receive their goods with ease. – $1200 for 1year service through Chargbee.com
Equipment and supplies: I expanded to offer products wholesale to spa’s and boutiques. Immediately it was clear that larger and more advanced equipment is needed to scale up production so that our orders are delivered on time and with the same quality customers expect. – Bottle Filler: Yoli Pneumatic Electric Bottle Filling Machine $1200 – Label Applicator: $2,000 – Heavy Duty Immersion Blender and Attachments: $500 – Production Utensils $300 – Shelving and Production Table $600
Marketing/Branding (virtual and print) to support wholesale needs: Selling products wholesale comes with additional label and packaging requirements. – Packaging: $1000 – Labels: $1000 – Printed Materials (line sheets, shelf talkers, flyers, brochures): $500 – UPC codes: $500 (20 bar codes)