Moonflower Herbs

Name: Colleen
Shop Name: Moonflower Herbs
Shop Link: www.MoonflowerHerbs.Etsy.com
Location: Farmington, New Hampshire
Ships To: Currently, just the US, although I’m not opposed to shipping internationally.

What materials do you use for your ECO friendly products?
I use organically grown herbs and ethically harvested oils, butters and waxes. I buy fair trade and organic when I can. One of my goals is to switch over to all organic ingredients in the near future. I practice composting and xeriscaping.

Why did you decide to make ECO friendly products?
I have very sensitive skin and have terrible reactions to the synthetic detergents and fragrances used in most commercially produced skin care. Once I had some herbal knowledge under my belt, I decided to make my own naturals, for my family and myself, using organic herbs from my garden. I like the idea that when my products are washed down the drain, they won’t be poisoning the soil and water.

What inspires you?
I’m very inspired by my family and by nature. My parents are organic farmers. When I was growing up, everyone always had some sort of crafting project going on. Like them, I am in awe of the beauty, simplicity and utter perfection of nature.

How long have you had your shop on Etsy?
I joined Etsy in March of 2007, but didn’t get my shop up until the end of October of that year.

Is this a job for you or a hobby?
Moonflower Herbs is a full time business for me. It really is home gown and the focus changes with the seasons. It starts in the spring with planting time. I grow various fruits (berries and tree fruits), vegetables, and herbs. As spring progresses into summer I can be found with my organic plants and produce at my local farmer’s markets. Fall is a very busy time here with harvesting and canning. Winter is when I get to create. This is when I process the dried herbs, and make my soaps and candles.

How did you get into your craft?
My crafting is born from necessity and fascination, and is a natural extension of my love for organic farming. I suffered a work injury and disability when I was 19. This led me to study nutritional healing and herbalism. I started out by making tinctures, teas, vinegars, and massage oils about fifteen years ago. I like learning new skills, and using those skills to make my own unique creations. I make these with the desire to be as self-sufficient as I possibly can, while maintaining respect for the Earth and its inhabitants.

Do you have any advice for fellow Etsy shop owners?
There are many amazing crafters on Etsy, and I feel that I’m a little too new to be offering anyone advice! This is my personal philosophy. Do what makes you happy. If you love what you do, you will find many others that love what you have to offer.