Meet Crystal Williams: Owner, The Balm Shop & Co.

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

Hi Crystal, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
There are three habits that I practice daily to encourage and maintain success in business. They are: patience, persistence and positivity. Sustainability in business cannot be achieved in one day, so you must have patience. Just like a seed planted in the ground, you have to sew into the business, water it, keep watch for anything around it that would hinder its growth and nurture it to maturity. The process of longevity isn’t easy, so persistence and positivity are key. If you stay diligent and focused, in time, you’ll be able to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The Balm Shop & Co., is an Indie-beauty company with a humanitarian heart. We offer clean, artisan skincare options designed to pamper individuals daily. I decided to create my first product after being diagnosed with dermatitis, also known as eczema in 2011. In time, I realized that my skin condition would flair up when I was under high stress and pressure. After completing research, I learned that there is a well-known correlation between skin health and stress. Extended high levels of stress can open the door to a variety of skin health issues (e.g., eczema, etc.). When searching the mainstream market to remedy my issue, I was unable to find an affordable, natural skincare product, that addressed my skin sensitivities; so, I decided to create it.
When I officially launched into business in the Winter 2016, I only had one product. Today, I am excited to have a line of 20 + products that provide a channel for the busy professional, mom or dad, with limited ‘me time’ to pamper themselves daily. We offer natural, consciously packaged and spa-inspired products designed with stress reducing combinations (e.g. aroma therapy), to heighten the senses, transform the environment and prepare the mind and body for relaxation.
The road to my current success has been tough, but fulfilling. I am truly blessed to live my dream every day by creating products that help others find balance. Also, I am thankful to support communities locally and abroad through our community project. This summer, we are excited to partner with the iHelp Foundation to bring reproductive health education and feminine hygiene kits to young girls in Jamaica.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There are so many places to choose from. Knowing my best friend, if I pulled together a week-long trip within LA, we would have to have the perfect mix of good food, entertainment and relaxation. On Day 1, we would start in my home city Redondo Beach with shopping in the Riviera. They have the cutest boutique shops and one of the most beautiful beaches in the South Bay. Afterward, I would take her to Kincaid’s for lunch. This is one of her favorite restaurants in the area.
On Day 2, we would make our way north to hike the Santa Ynez Falls trail in Pacific Palisades. Afterward, we would have a well-deserved lunch at the beautiful Draycott Restaurant. They have awesome food and excellent service.
On Day 3, we would be ready for some live entertainment. So, I would take her for a concert and picnic at the Hollywood Bowl. My bestie loves hanging out there with good music, food and a little vino.
Day 4, we would go shopping at the Century City Mall, for something grown and sexy to wear before heading to Del Frisco’s for dinner and then the E.P./ L.P. Rooftop Bar for a little fun.
Day 5, would be a straight foodie frenzy at Abbot Kinney’s First Fridays in Venice, and a stroll around the Canals.
After 5 days of fun, we would get some much needed TLC, with a facial, mani and pedi combo at Dubunne Spa in Torrance. Dinner would be at Dim Thai Fung, which is another bestie fav.
On the last day, we would cap things off with more R&R including a massage and body scrub at Burke Williams Spa. Our day would culminate by getting dressed for a delicious dinner out at The Catch restaurant in West Hollywood. Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people in my life that I would like to shoutout. First my family and closest friends for their love and support throughout my journey. Next, I would like to give a huge shout out to my mentor Yumiko Whitaker with Hummingbird PR. She has been instrumental in my growth as an entrepreneur, and a great encourager along my journey in business for which I’ll be forever grateful. I would also like to give an honorable mention to all the badass women entrepreneurs at Jackalope Arts, Makers Arcade, San Diego Made, the Local Bazaar and Dear Handmade, who provide opportunities and platforms for businesses like mine to grow and thrive.
Last but not least, a final shoutout goes to my loyal customers and retail partners for continuing to support my brand.

Website: https://www.thebalmshopco.com/shop

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

Twitter: . https://www.twitter.com/thebalmshopco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebalmshopco

Image Credits
The product photos are credit to The Balm Shop & Co. The founder (individual photos): photo credit to Andrea Piedrasanta