Today we’re interviewing the owner of Whimsy + Wellness, Haylee Crowley, who started her business as a tiny Etsy shop in 2016 and has grown into a full-time business that supports over 5 families. With over 70K followers on Instagram, Whimsy + Wellness offers essential oil bottles, labels, crystals and so much more. Ready to add a little whimsy to your life? Read on!
1. How did you get started in your industry? What led to your passion for your career?
I started this business just a few months after experiencing my second miscarriage as a way to distract myself from the constant wonder of when I would be pregnant again.
I had just started using essential oils and when I couldn't find any pretty roller bottles to put them in, I decided to make my own. Armed with a Silhouette Cameo machine and a roll of vinyl, I sold the first Whimsy + Wellness products out of a tiny Etsy shop in 2016.
Now, Whimsy + Wellness is a full fledged business that supports our family full-time, as well as 7 other hard-working families. We have outgrown that little Cameo machine and now make whimsical wellness gifts and accessories to make health feel happy, colorful, glittery, and anything but boring.
Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that this business would be where it is today. I didn't foresee the purpose and drive this business would give me, something I didn’t think I would feel until I was called mom.
2. What were some of the bigger challenges you experienced in getting started?
I had a hard time creating systems. Everything I was doing was new to me, and I had to create a system for EVERYTHING! From fulfilling orders, to creating products, to running social media. I’m not a naturally organized person, so this was pretty tough for me.
3. How has your life changed now that you’re pursuing your passion and living your dream?
My husband and I both work our business full time! Prior to this we both were managers in retail, which is a rough gig. Now we get to make our own schedule, be with our kids all day (amazing and stressful all in one 😂), and choose exactly what’s most important to us. We also work A LOT of hours, especially after our kids are in bed-- but we look at each other and can’t believe this is our life.
4. What’s your favorite part about owning your own business/your career?
Making my own schedule and connecting with other business owners! I’ve made some great friends that have made this process so much more fun.
5. What does supporting women-owned businesses look like to you?
I love collaborating, and choose to work with women owned businesses as often as possible! From carrying their products in my shop, to our graphic designer, to just leaving comments on their feed to help others see their work. I do whatever I can to support them
6. How has your brand/packaging/website changed or improved your business?
I love that we have a consistent look and feel across all channels and that it really reflects our purpose- to make wellness fun! Our customers can really see that now, and I’ve saved so much time trying to DIY things so that my time can be spent in other areas of my business!
Want more info on this amazing girlboss? You can follow Haylee on Instagram @whimsyandwellness. Check out her website: https://whimsyandwellness.com
Know of someone we should interview for our MoneyMak(her) series? Send us an email at hello@quixoticdesignco.com!
