Luscious Naturals

Name: Cassidy
Shop Name: Luscious Naturals
Shop Link: http://LusciousNaturals.etsy.com
What materials do you use for your ECO friendly products? Only the purest, natural ingredients--high quality oils (olive, coconut, safflower, sesame) and butters (shea, kokum, cocoa), sugar (only *vegan*), salts, botanicals, and essential oils. I try to buy organic and/or local where possible.

Why did you decide to make ECO friendly products? I've been hyper-aware of the impact we have on the environment since I began researching the ethical issues behind veganism. Once you know the truth, you can't hide from it!

What inspires you? I'm inspired by the power of the earth... this planet is responding to us and the way we have treated it--I'm in inspired by the smells, colors, and textures of nature. I'm inspired by herbalism, aromatherapy, energy work and the teachers of these arts. I am inspired everyday when I wake up and think about my life, I'm doing what I love... and I'm passionate about it.
How long have you had your shop on Etsy? I have only had my shop on Etsy since Feb. 2008.
Is this a job for you or a hobby? This is my job... how cool is that? =)

How did you get into your craft? Well, I've been using my products at home for years... I decided to take the plunge and start a business--to share my products and the information I've gathered with others... I decided that I wanted to do something meaningful to me, something I care about. I would share my creations with my family and friends--when they started requesting more, I knew I should keep at it!

Do you have any advice for fellow Etsy shop owners? Think long and hard about not just what you want FROM your craft, but what you can GIVE to it... What is your philosophy? Ask yourself WHY you're doing this... if you're comfortable with your answers, then start doing the background work (research, sourcing, planning, etc.)--above all, have patience.

Anything else you would like to add? I advocate being an educated consumer and speaking with your buying power... We can't rely on others to make the best decisions for us, our families, or the earth--know what you're supporting when you spend money, on food--on clothes--on anything! Money speaks, so use that to make a statement about what is important to you.