Meet Chani Ronez | Founder at Merci Collective

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chani Ronez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chani, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
When I first started my business, I was a victim of it. I was so focused on growing it and making everything work that I completely missed out on life. It reached a point where I was on the verge of burning out. That’s when I realized I needed to set major boundaries. I redefined my work-life balance, prioritizing my personal time without sacrificing the success of my business.

Now, I’m able to run my business just as well, if not better, while still being present and enjoying life. It’s been about finding that sweet spot between working hard and living fully, and I believe it’s made me a better business owner and person overall.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Merci Collective started from a deeply personal place – the desire to create something that not only met my needs but also addressed a larger need in the pet product market. When I first got my dog, I realized that many pet products didn’t reflect the kind of quality, sustainability, and design I wanted to offer. So, I set out to make something different—something that could provide both style and wellness for pets.

What sets Merci Collective apart is our holistic approach to pet wellness, combined with luxurious, high-quality products. We incorporate healing crystals, like Rose Quartz and Black Obsidian, into our products to help support pets’ emotional and physical well-being. Our crystal-infused water bottles, for example, are designed to elevate pets’ hydration routines while also providing calming benefits. We’re also incredibly committed to sustainability, and all our products are vegan, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly.

The journey hasn’t been easy. I’ve had to navigate many obstacles—working with manufacturers, finding the right materials, and facing moments of self-doubt, especially when dealing with setbacks. At one point, I had to exit a business partnership due to betrayal, and that experience taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, trust, and staying true to my vision.

But through all the challenges, I’ve learned to set strong boundaries, value my mental health, and lean on a supportive community. That’s what’s allowed me to grow this brand. It’s not just about the products, but about the people who support the mission behind it.

What I want the world to know about Merci Collective is that it’s more than just a pet brand—it’s about creating a space where pets and their owners can thrive together. It’s about well-being, sustainability, and creating products that care as much about the planet as they do about the pets they serve.

I’m so proud of where we are today, and I’m excited for the future! It’s all about taking one step at a time, staying grounded in purpose, and continuing to help pet owners and their furry friends lead healthier, happier lives.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Start your perfect day in Los Angeles with a delightful breakfast at La Chouquette, a charming French bakery where you can enjoy a flaky croissant or indulge in a mimosa flight, all while soaking in the Parisian ambiance. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through Larchmont Village, exploring the independent boutiques and cozy cafes. If you’re there on a market day, check out the Larchmont Farmers Market for fresh local finds. For lunch, head to Petit Trois, a cozy French bistro just a short drive away, where you can savor classic French dishes like French onion soup, duck confit, or croque madame. Afterward, refuel with a cup of artisanal coffee from Lamina or Café de Leche in Silverlake, and take a moment to walk around the Silverlake Reservoir for a peaceful break. As the evening rolls in, enjoy a sumptuous dinner at Saffy’s, an upscale Mediterranean restaurant where you can indulge in flavorful dishes like lamb chops and grilled octopus in a chic, modern setting. This itinerary offers the perfect mix of food, shopping, and relaxation, giving you an unforgettable day in LA’s best neighborhoods.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely! I owe so much of my success to the amazing people who have supported me along the way. First and foremost, I’d like to give a huge shoutout to my sister, who has been a constant source of love, support, and inspiration. Her unwavering belief in me, even when I doubted myself, has been invaluable.

I also want to recognize the mentors I’ve had throughout my entrepreneurial journey. They’ve shared their wisdom, encouraged me to push through tough times, and helped me grow into the business owner I am today.

And lastly, I want to give a special mention to the community of small business owners and like-minded individuals who’ve shared advice, offered encouragement, and made me feel less alone on this journey. It truly takes a village, and I’m grateful to be surrounded by such a supportive and passionate group.

Website: https://www.mercicollective.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mercicollective_official/