Compass Conversations: Oshun Organics
I had the pleasure of meeting Karrye Flowers during our 'Sweet Spring Bakery Crawl'. Let me tell you, she is a powerhouse of hard work and dedication, running her beautiful shop at the Lynchburg Community Market where she pours her heart into crafting every single product. And that smile of hers? It's absolutely infectious! If you've had the pleasure of meeting her in person, you know exactly what I mean!
Each month, we'll take you on a journey through the unique stories, passions, and dreams that drive our local entrepreneurs. These are the stories behind the logos and social media posts, the spirited souls enriching our daily lives with their craft and dedication.
What inspired you to start your business?
About 8 years ago I went on a mission to understand those large, intimidating words on the back of ingredient labels. I decided that I no longer wanted to be weary of what I was eating or putting on my skin, just because I couldn't pronounce the word, or didn't readily know what it was made from.
Once I started researching, I decided I'd try my hand at making soap. I've always had a love for crafting and saw it as a way to eliminate unnecessary toxins and additives.
The first batch of soap set me off on a journey. I began educating myself on the science of cosmetics and skincare and fell in love with the process of researching, formulating, and testing.
How does your business contribute to the local community?
I love educating others about the benefits of plants and botanicals and how using them appropriately can be effective for curing so many ailments. Our retail space is a place where the community can come to ask questions and find resources. It's also a pretty cool place for a bit of entertainment. Customers can and and watch our products being made in-house, or have an experience in-store testing the product.
Can you share a memorable experience or success story related to your business?
I engage with so many really interesting and memorable people down at the market! Its so hard to pick one experience. I just love when new people find our shop and I can talk to them about a skincare issue they want to address and then offer them a product or even just advice. The best part though, is when they come back to let me know the product worked for them!
What challenges have you faced in building your business, and how have you overcome them?
One of our biggest challenges is keeping up with production. As a one-woman-show, who at times also has difficulties with staffing, I often find it difficult to manufacture, package and move products, all while maintaining my personal sanity. You'll hear no complaints from me though.
What makes your business unique?
Besides the fact that I manufacture every single product in store, with my own two hands, all of our offerings are vegan. Which is pretty helpful for individuals with alpha-gal related allergies, or those who just want to be a bit more environmentally conscious.
What advice would you give to other small business owners who are just starting out?
I believe that before even starting business, you should work hard to hone your niche and develop your target market.
How do you see your business evolving in the future?
As our business evolves, our goal is to engage with more small businesses and assist them in developing their own Personal care, Skincare of Haircare brands. I would like to be able to manufacture and private label for those who want to develop or add on to their business.
Do you have a special message that you'd like to share with the community through this article?
It's important to support small, local business. Even though, I probably don't have to tell the readers of this blog that! Supporting local means growing your community.
