Let’s start from the beginning! Tell us a little about the journey that led you to where you are now.

I started LOT XI working in an upcycled shipping container with my mother. For three years, we occupied a tiny shop in a community I share strong ties with – the West Adams neighborhood of Los Angeles. The shop was a thoroughfare between LOT XI and where my grandmother still lives today. The shop was a defining moment in our brand! It was meant to nurture the already-vibrant community and foster social enterprise through wellness goods. Like many new businesses, LOT XI faced challenges and the store was closed in 2018. Looking back, this was our brand being forced to grow our community. The community we serve is present at local marketplaces, street festivals, farmer’s markets, community events, and the virtual space. Acknowledging this allowed LOT XI to venture into new spaces, connect with our community, and refine our offerings to focus on apothecary – body butters, candles, and soaps.

As we continue to grow, it has become evident that our audience desires to connect even more deeply with the product. With my therapeutic background, I want to teach people how to utilize the five senses as a practical tool for healing. So far, my experience has not been easy. I’ve found that this solopreneur journey is forcing me to address healing within myself – in real time. However, the more I learn into my niche, I am more invigorated by the journey of female entrepreneurship.

What inspires you? How have your passions and interests changed over the course of your career?

What inspires me the most is following my heart, even when it feels crippling to show up for myself. I’ve learned that an essential part of the human experience is honoring your highest self, even when others question your vision. Never abandon yourself or your vision in the process. Refinement comes naturally as a part of the journey and I do my best to keep it all in alignment. I’ve learned that sharing my truth and the lessons I’ve learned along the way is an important part of connecting with others. Trust the process!

Being a creative and a clinical psychotherapist, I have often felt like I was occupying space in two opposing worlds. I’ve surrendered to the idea that I can bridge these worlds with intentional action. I’ve surrendered to my calling – showing the world how to heal in real time. Traditional therapy isn’t as accessible for various reasons. In reality, the healing is also in the doing. I love inviting people into creating these moments of wellness through our products and the activations we curate within community.

What does your day-to-day entail to support your company?

My day-to-day looks different from traditional therapists and entrepreneurs. I start the day off with individual therapy sessions and it takes off from there! I utilize the weekend to create scent palettes, check in on production and marketing, follow up on emails, and lock in any brand partnerships. Sourcing the best products out there is easier the longer I’ve been in business. At this point, I have built amazing relationships and know exactly what I am looking for to ensure our company is sustainable.

How do you work to achieve balance in your life?

I work to achieve balance in my life by keeping my spirituality at the core of everything I do. Making time for my friendships and connecting with new people is so necessary, even though I’m an introvert. Every day, I find stillness by praying, drinking water, taking time to rest, and most importantly, making sure I feel confident in my decisions.

Lot XI operates with 11 core pillars: clarity, community, education, family, forgiveness, growth, health, self-preservation, social justice, spirituality, and well-being. Could you elaborate on how you work to incorporate some of these pillars into your business model and everyday life?

The work of cultivating healing through quality products has allowed me to use my skills to help others in various communities by creating wellness activations that foster community and self-preservation.

How does your dedication to the environment shape the way that Lot XI operates? What can you share about the difference between clean-burning candles and others?

At LOT XI, we’re mindful of our carbon footprint – making products in small batches and sourcing locally.

Clean-burning candles typically use essential oil and fragrance oil bases. Meaning they are typically free of paraffin, UV inhibitors, and phthalate. Clean-burning candles are healthier for you and the environment. I encourage people to focus on the daily details that affect their health, their family, and what impact they want to leave on the environment. There are no judgments here! You can make these lifestyle adjustments as you feel the most comfortable.

One of the ways that you dedicate yourself and your business to the community is through hosting candle-making workshops. Can you share more about these events and what makes them special?

LOT XI’s candle-making workshops are truly something special! Everything we do is intentional and immersive. We invite guests to participate in a mindfulness exercise, guiding them through how to utilize sensory practices to promote wellness in their daily lives.

What advice would you give other women leaders in the business world?

There is no bad that can come from starting, stopping, or quitting. Make sure that whatever you lead, you do so with your body and soul. Let your voice be the loudest voice when you rise up – in this life and the next. 

What’s next for Lot XI? How do you hope to see the impact of your work take form?

We hope to continue expanding, secure strategic partnerships, and align with larger brands. Everything we do is in effort to center the therapeutic qualities of our products. I am currently developing a podcast series where we explore difficult parts of the human experience in conversation with others. We want to be an inspiration to others by living out our values.

Favorite place to visit to spark inspiration?

Art galleries!

Color or neutrals?

Neutrals!

Favorite space in your home?

Kitchen

Favorite scent of all time?

Sandalwood

Most nostalgic scent from childhood?

 

My grandma’s homemade playdough