Latin Name: Euphorbia cerifera

Description: Candelilla wax, a ¼ inch light yellow hard, brittle flake is a natural vegetable wax, hand collected from the leaves of the small Candelilla shrub, native to the Chihuahuan Desert of northern Mexico. This wax is used in many vegan body care products as an animal-friendly substitute for beeswax.

Largest Producing Countries: Mexico, United States (Texas)

Scent: Flat

Properties: Candelilla wax is formed as an outer coating on the leaves of the Candelilla shrub and acts as a protecting agent to retain moisture and help keep the plant alive. Once separated from the plant, the wax is most often used along with other waxes to help harden them without raising their boiling points or as a food additive/glazing element. The melting point of candelilla wax is between 155 and 160 degrees F.

Products that Use Candelilla Wax: Vegan Butter Bar, Eco Baby Botanical’s Herbal Baby Bottom Balm

Latin Name: Zingiber officinalis

Family: Zingiberaceae

Description: Ginger is a perennial herb that grows to about 3 feet high and has a thick, spreading root system. Each year is grows a stalk with narrow, spear-shaped leaves and white/yellow flowers. Essential oil is steam-distilled from the unpeeled, dried ground root.

Countries of Origin: Australia, China, India, Thailand

Scent: Ginger has sharp top notes and fiery, spicy undertones. It blends well with citrus and floral essential oils.

Properties: Ginger is a warming oil and stimulates both digestion and circulation. It is often used for both travel sickness and morning sickness. Ginger oil is used in massage when muscles are cold and contracted. Ginger has been used to combat Seasonal Affective Disorder, fatigue and loss of libido as it is arousing and stimulating psychologically. Some use ginger oil in massage oil to speed up the healing of bruises.

Precautions: Do not use if you have very sensitive skin. Use at a low level (less than 2%) in massage oils. Ginger oil is non-toxic, but may cause photosensitivity.

Products where you can find Ginger essential Oil: Our Orange Ginger Spice soap.

Remember, the FDA has not evaluated the above statements. No claims are made regarding any medicinal value of ginger oil. The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any diseases.

Wow, we’re more than halfway through 2011 already – it has passed by so quickly! I recently carved out some time to check back in with the goals I set in January to see what’s working, what isn’t and how I need to change or adapt (I actually check in pretty regularly with them but figured a mid-year update post would be good and help keep me accountable).

One of my words for 2011 is intentional. I want to focus on productive tasks and not get distracted or bogged down by the unimportant time suckers. I’m still working on this. I am the first to admit I have struggled with being organized or a strong time manager. I’ve just started reading Dan Kennedy’s No B.S. Time Management for Entrepreneurs (affiliate link) and I’m implementing some of his strategies and look forward to being more productive with my time throughout the rest of the year. It’s amazing how little changes can create some big payoffs just by being disciplined and organized.

Another goal was to seek out a small accountability group of likeminded business women to support each other in our spiritual and business walks. This has been so important for me. I’ve joined a women’s bible study this summer and the camaraderie and support has been a tremendous boost to my spiritual walk. When I keep my faith as a priority, everything else seems to fall into place easier. Business support has come through a small coaching group, and also through the Indie Beauty Network Book Club. We meet online each quarter to discuss a business book and implement into our business practices. So far we’ve read The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy, Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose by Tony Hsieh and next we’ll be discussing Poke the Box by Seth Godin. (affiliate links). Once again, the community and support that has been developed by being a part of this group has been wonderful, and it has opened the doors to some new opportunities, which I’ll be announcing shortly.

Next was the goal to keep investing in myself. One of the ways I’ve done this is through (love this name!) Rich, Happy and Hot B-School (RHH B-School) – if you’ve not heard of Marie Forleo and Laura Roeder, check them out – they are seriously smart, sassy and accomplished business women who are doing great things online and having a fun time doing it! This course has helped me better understand my customer’s needs and desires which is helping me to reframe some of our offerings to serve you better. It’s also sparked two new websites/offshoot businesses that are currently under development that I’ll be announcing soon. We’ve got a private group on Facebook where the guys & gals regularly ask questions, help each other out and provide support and accountability. As I’ve mentioned before, I work so much better when I commit to a specific task with a deadline and have people help hold my feet to the fire.

I’m excited to head back to Spark & Hustle again this year. Tory Johnson and her group put on such a fabulous conference last year and I’m looking forward to learning from other dynamic entrepreneurs this year and implementing even more ideas to serve you better and more efficiently.

Another word for 2011 has been action, and this has definitely been happening. We launched our Eco Baby Botanicals line which has been incredibly well received. Other product lines are SO close to being finalized, I’m anxiously awaiting when I can announce them! We have some great press coming up this fall and fun partnerships that we’ve been continuing to grow. The days are packed, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. It truly is a blessing to do what I do for a living.

Finally, I committed to growing a team this year, and it is happening! We had an intern over the spring semester and in the next six weeks we’ve got three incredibly talented interns joining the team with possibly more coming on board as well. I’m looking forward to introducing them to you soon and am beyond excited about their energy and creativity they’re bringing to the company.

All in all, it has been a great year so far, and I know the second half of the year is going to be even better than I could imagine. There is still a lot of progress to be made, but I am looking forward to my end of the year recap! Thank you again for your continued support of Vintage Body Spa, we are honored to serve you and provide you and your family with our products.

How are you coming along with the goals you set for this year? Leave your update below and let me know how I can cheer you on in reaching your goals – no matter how big or small, business related or not!

I’ve heard about Frankincense since I was a young child, with the telling of the bible story of Jesus’ birth, when the Magi presented the baby with gold, frankincense and myrrh. It was just recently, however; that I finally experienced frankincense, and it truly does smell divine.

image by Ben Norvell

Latin Name: Boswellia carterii

Description: Frankincense comes from the very hardy, fragrant Boswellia tree that grows wild in unforgiving environments (sometimes growing directly out of rocks) and can grow up to 25 feet tall. It has small leaves and tiny pink or white flowers. When the tree bark is cut or scraped, a milky-white resin bleeds out and hardens into orange brown ‘tears’. The essential oil is steam distilled from tears.

Frankincense tears

Largest Producing Countries: Ethiopia, India, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Somalia and Yemen

Scent: Frankincense has a fresh, woody, balsamic and spicy scent with a citrus top note. It blends well with most floral, woods, spice and citrus essential oils.

Properties: Frankincense is one of the most highly prized essential oils that has been traded for more than 5000 years and is used extensively in perfumery, aromatherapy and in religious rites. The oil is good for slowing and deepening breathing and to relieve fear and anxiety. It is considered helpful to aid meditation and prayer and in stilling the mind. It is recommended for use with dry, sensitive and mature skins, to help rejuvenate skin tone and prevent wrinkles. It has been useful in treating colds, coughs and sore throats.

Precautions: Frankincense is non-toxic, non-sensitizing and non-irritating. As with any new product, always test a small amount for skin sensitivity or allergic reaction. Do not use any essential oils undiluted on the skin.

Remember, the FDA has not evaluated the above statements. No claims are made regarding any medicinal value of frankincense oil. The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases. Further research should be done on each essential oil to determine its proper usage for each individual. Aromatherapy is not intended to be a replacement for care under a qualified health professional, but is to be considered a complimentary therapy.

Latin Name: Eucalyptus globulus

Description: Eucalyptus globulus is also known as Australian blue gum or fever tree. This evergreen tree can reach up to 200 feet tall. There are over 700 species of Eucalyptus trees, and 20 of those are harvested for essential oils. Eucalyptus trees have long, narrow blue-green leaves and creamy white flowers. The essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves and twigs.

Largest Producing Countries: Australia, Brazil, and Spain

Scent: Eucalyptus has a distinct fresh, medicinal, camphoraceous, woody scent. Eucalyptus blends well with other wood and herb essential oils, particularly lavender and lemon.

Properties: Eucalyptus is one of the most familiar essential oils, often used as a decongestant, to clear stuffy heads and relieve headaches through inhaling and in vapor rubs. Eucalyptus oil has antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties, so it is often used to treat respiratory problems. It is also great to use as an insect repellant and treating insect bites. Stimulating and refreshing, it is used to clear the mind and promote concentration. Helps neutralize odors, which is why it’s a natural choice to include in our Pedicure Prep Set.

Precautions: Eucalyptus oil should be avoided while pregnant and for those with high blood pressure and epilepsy. Excessive use may cause headaches. As with any new product, always test a small amount for skin sensitivity or allergic reaction. Do not use any essential oils undiluted on the skin.

Vintage Body Spa Products with Eucalyptus Oil: Daily Moisturizing Lotion, Salt Soak, Whipped Sugar Scrub and our Pedicure Prep Set.

Remember, the FDA has not evaluated the above statements. No claims are made regarding any medicinal value of eucalyptus oil. The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases. Further research should be done on each essential oil to determine its proper usage for each individual. Aromatherapy is not intended to be a replacement for care under a qualified health professional, but is to be considered a complimentary therapy

“We act as though comfort and luxury were the chief requirements of life, when all that we need to make us really happy is something to be enthusiastic about.” – Charles Kingsley

image by lusi

What are you most enthusiastic about? Go out and do that today!

A few weeks ago I attended the Grand Opening of Koch and Company, our latest stockists. I’m so proud to be a part of this gallery, with our products for sale next to some of the most unique and beautiful arts and crafts that I have ever seen. Deborah, the owner, has a big vision for this shop, and is so passionate to have brought beautiful art to her neighborhood, one that is not known as a cultural epicenter in Louisville. Her gallery is a good place to find gifts in all price ranges. I purchased a gift for my parents’ anniversary (but since they read the blog, I can’t say what it is and ruin the surprise!) Thanks Deborah for sharing more about the gallery and including pictures of some of the amazing products you sell!

Koch and Company
10978 Dixie Highway
Louisville, KY 40272
(502) 618-4069
www.kochandcompany.com

Love how they've displayed Vintage Body Spa - check out the antique tub!

1) Tell us your story – how long have you been an artist, what most inspires you, and tell us about your shop – when did it open, what inspired you to open a store, why/how you chose your location, etc.
I have been an artist since I was four if you count me drawing a shark on a piece of paper and chasing my sister around the house with it! I paint, sew, cook, cater, quilt, do carpentry, design, landscape, graphic and webpage design, mom, work on my own car, love my animals, ect…

Many things inspire me. Smells, colors, flavors, textures, and sounds to name a few. The way light hits a Sugar Maple in the fall and it looks like the tree is on fire is inspiring. Seeing my kids sleep curled up with a cat, watching my husband working on heavy equipment and moving earth inspires me. See our horses play and roll in mud inspires me.

Koch and Company is something I have wanted to do for many years. Being surrounded by the art of others and showing it to people who may have never been to a gallery is just plain cool. The artists in the gallery are a collection of friends with the same goal: Selling their wares to those who appreciate it. We have 43 wonderful artists who are some of the most talented people I have ever met and had the opportunity to work with.

Funny question here, “Why did I open a gallery?” To be honest, I am a terrible employee! Most employers do not like ideas or changing the way things have been done for years. People get comfortable in doing the same old thing because it works. My thing is “What if we do this? Or try this?” That tends to not fit into the normal work place. I am not a cookie cutter kinda girl! I have opinions, a huge heart, a sense of humor, and I take my work very seriously.

I chose Valley Station because it is MY community. From all the research that went into my business plan, Valley Station has a much lower debt to income ratio. This means that more homes are paid off or almost paid off, fewer credit card debts and higher income due to smarter spending habits. I love the values in my community. Neighbors get along, less crime, and we have a lot of community involvement. We need Koch and Company, we need culture, we need a boutique like atmosphere for shopping that doesn’t include Wal-Mart.

2) How would you describe the products you sell?
We sell all sorts of creative goodies! Fine art that includes many types of paintings, pottery, fine jewelry, handmade clothing for children, furniture and stained glass. We have antiques, custom framing and wonderful spa products that everyone is crazy over! (hint, hint)

A Kentucky shop MUST have horses!

3) What’s the best part about being a small business owner? The worst part?
The best part…. I’m in charge.
The worst part…. I’m in charge.
Talk amongst yourselves on this one…..

4) Does your shop have any unique promotions/events to engage current customers or draw in new customers?
We are in the process of running a Groupon in a couple of weeks. Other frame shops in Louisville RAVE of the benefits of running a groupon. We hope that the framing portion of the business takes a huge leap once it runs!

The holidays are going to be awesome! I am a Christmas Addict! I can’t wait to decorate the store with all the items we have! TREES TREES TREES!!! I can’t wait to make a Vintage Spa tree!

5) What is your favorite Vintage Body Spa product?
MY personal favorite is the Vanilla/Buttermilk Bath Soak…. It’s like taking a bath surrounded in my favorite food… SUGAR COOKIES!

We have heard raves about the Sinus Masks and the Passionfruit Rose Whipped Shea Butter!

When people come in, I make them smell the fragrances and try the lotions next to the register. Everyone loves them!

6) If you could request a new product or essential oil scented item for Vintage Body Spa to create, what would it be – what are your customers looking for?
Vanilla Buttermilk Lotion…. I would never be without it!

7) Any exciting news or promotions you’d like to share?
The Groupon coming out soon is awesome! $100 custom framing coupon for $50. You will be able to frame ANYTHING and save $100 for $50. So drag out that picture of the kids, your mother-in-law, or your diploma and get it framed! If you don’t spend the whole coupon, we are extending and making an additional offer of using the remainder on your next purchase! Try us! You will like us!

Koch and Company offers over 200 custom frames for all your art.

8 ) Please feel free to share anything else with us.
We welcome all visitors to our Gallery. You will receive friendly, non-pushy, non-snobby customer service. We are simple people who are knowledgeable about the art and handcrafted items we sell. Stop in… Sit a spell… and have fun!

(Make sure you try the Vanilla ButterMilk Milk Bath… It’s to die for!)

Latin Name: Anethum graveolens

Description: Dill is a perennial herb that grows to approximately 2 feet high with thin stems and delicate white or yellow flowers grouped in umbels. The essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves, stems and seeds of the plant.

Largest Producing Countries: Italy, France, Germany and Spain

Scent: Dill has a fresh, warm and spicy scent. It is very similar to caraway. Dill blends well with citrus oils, nutmeg and caraway.

Properties: Dill has been used since ancient times to ease digestive issues, calm nervous tension and sweating as well as promote healing of wounds. Add dill oil to a carrier oil to create a post-meal massage oil. Rub the oil blend in clockwise motions across the abdomen to ease stomach upset or constipation. Dill has also been used to stimulate milk flow in nursing mothers. Dill oil is also used to combat nervous tension and overwhelm.

Precautions: Dill is considered to be non-toxic, non-irritating and non-sensitizing, but should not be used during pregnancy. As with any new product, always test a small amount for skin sensitivity or allergic reaction. Do not use any essential oils undiluted on the skin.

Remember, the FDA has not evaluated the above statements. No claims are made regarding any medicinal value of clary sage oil. The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases. Further research should be done on each essential oil to determine its proper usage for each individual. Aromatherapy is not intended to be a replacement for care under a qualified health professional, but is to be considered a complimentary therapy.

Thanks to Monique, who let me know that this is from Holstee, called their Manifesto Poster. You can bet I’ll be purchasing one to hang full size in my office!

Here’s the phrases typed out for you:

This is your life.
Do what you love, and do it often.
If you don’t like something, change it.
If you don’t like your job, quit.
If you don’t have enough time, stop watching tv.
If you are looking for the love of your life, stop; they will be waiting for you when you start doing things you love.
Stop over analyzing, life is simple.
All emotions are beautiful
When you eat, appreciate every last bite.
Open your mind, arms and heart to new things and people, we are united in our differences.
Ask the next person you see what their passion is, and share your inspiring dream with them.
Travel often; getting lost will help you find yourself.
Some opportunities only come once, seize them.
Life is about the people you meet, and the things you create with them so go out and start creating.
Life is short. Live your dream and wear your passion.

“Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.” – Thomas A. Edison