We had the good fortune of connecting with Joi Bonman and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Joi, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
I have always loved making things and did so often for friends and family. After creating a unique blend of products for my small friend group, I realized how much I loved it. Making skincare products was fun and challenging but it also allowed me to explore scent, texture, and overall mood improvement. My friends loved their gifts so much they all but yelled at me to start a business immediately. I thought about all the things that I loved. The mysticism of the universe, mental health, being vegan, and CBD. I have always loved the stories of gods and goddesses and being that I am working with materials from the earth and being an earth sign. It came together in this beautiful way that I had not expected.
What should our readers know about your business?
I handcrafted my own recipes and scent blends for all-natural, vegan, CBD skincare products. I believe in self-care and wanted to provide the tools and resources to remind people to put themselves first. I blended my love of self-care and luxury style products without the luxury price tag. Self-care should be affordable for everyone. I think my passion and message sets us apart but also the product is fantastic! I am so proud that I have been able to educate people on using CBD and encouraging them to take a little space in their day just for them. Even for five minutes and people who have reached back out to thank me, has made every single moment worth it. I am now able to expand and offer classes to individuals and other business owners explaining CBD and how to make the most of their self-care routine. It has also been a beautiful surprise that so many close to me have said I have inspired them to chase their own careers. I had to work really long days and be okay with not seeing immediate cash in hand for it like a day job. It was not easy overcoming my own anxiety, especially talking to so many people regularly but it has been worth it. I meditate and learned to control my breathing. I also found it’s easier to be honest with my customers and let them know it’s a struggle. Everyone has responded with kind and understanding. I had to learn how to take calculated risks and be okay with not everything being perfect. Also, be honest with people about where you are at and set realistic expectations. It’s better to give yourself some breathing space and wow than rush and feel like it was not up to your standards. I want everyone to know self-care is not optional, self-care is not selfish. You need it, everyone needs it. Please don’t try to fill someone else’s cup when your own is not full. Trust yourself, whatever it is you want, you can do it! Take a breath, look to the universe (or whatever spiritual source you believe in), and go for it. Our story isn’t about us, it’s about you and providing the tools to deal with all the crazy going on around us.
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?
The first place places I would recommend for food would be Mama Dut and Dirty Lettuce. Both of these businesses are run by some of the most fantastic people! We’d have to say hi to them because their energy and positivity is too fabulous. Small local markets that Portland is known for. I love Easton Broad, Come Thru PDX, and PDX Moon Market. Need clothes? Talk to Ki at Shoeboxbyki. I buy things from her all the time and it’s a must-do. Portland also has amazing vinyl record shops all over, see one? Definitely stop! When the warm weather comes around you can find me at Powell Butte or the Rose Garden.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My fiance deserves so much recognition. He’s been my sounding board, assistant, personal TED Talk motivational speaker but he’s supported me every single step. I appreciate this human so much. My friends and family have loved me through it all, canceled plans and missed calls and truthfully, I am not sure I would have stuck it out if they had not believed in me and encouraged me. I am incredibly fortunate to have such a strong clan behind me.
Website: www.myearthgoddess.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myearthgoddesspdx
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myearthgoddess
Image Credits
alexnicolim rtfaithphotography d_eatherly