"MEET the ARTISAN" is a blog series that spotlights Etsy New York Team artisans and their craft. In this feature, we learn more about Susan, the creator of Naturally Susan's artisan skin care. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Susan and picking her brain. Susan and I have worked at Celebrate Brooklyn together so it is always nice to catch up with her.

Q: What is Naturally Susan's? Can you briefly describe your business for us?

A: Naturally Susan’s products are about skin-healthy and they're about versatility. They're about simplifying our lives and making our lives easier. I used to travel a great deal for business so simplifying my beauty routine and my travel bag whether I was going from day to evening, to the gym, shopping or on vacation are fundamental to the products that I develop. My products are effective, long lasting, and versatile. And, most importantly, my products are about being kind to your body.

Q: Some artisans develop their products to meet consumer needs, while others craft products based on things and/or experiences that inspire them. What is the inspiration behind your business?

A: I started making skin care products for myself because I wanted chemical-free and fragrance-free beauty care suitable for my sensitive skin. Our skin absorbs about 60% of what we put on it, so it’s important to keep that in mind when choosing the right skin care. I found an abundance of toxins and chemicals in many products, so I started researching and developing my own, creating products that are as pure to nature as possible.

Q: Oftentimes, each artisan has a different strategy and objective for their business. What are the next steps for you and your business?

A: The next steps for my business is to further broaden my audience and expand my business. I've continued to work with great partners so that we can grow together, domestically and internationally.

Q: Can you tell us some of the partners you have made? Retail stores where we can find your product?

A: Some of the business partners that I continue to work with includes Artists & Fleas. Partnering with them through their markets in both the Williamsburg, Brooklyn and Chelsea Market locations has helped to increase my brand exposure globally. I've also continued to work with local spas, schools, and nonprofit organizations to support businesses with philosophies and causes that align with my brand mission. You can shop my products on my Etsy shop and my e-commerce website at www.NaturallySusans.com. Also, select Naturally Susan's products are available at Artists & Fleas curated online shop and StopTHINKShop's GOODstuff Holiday Pop Up, a social good pop up shop at 103 Allen Street, in the Lower East Side, during this holiday season. There are a number of things in progress, and I look forward to sharing more news soon.

Q: As many artisans look to grow and further develop their businesses, do you have some advice that you can share with fellow artisans?

A: I’ve learned that if you’re passionate about something, it’s worth exploring. And, whether you're just starting your business or have been in business for some time, it's important to join a collaborative network. The level and diversity of experience in the networks are broad and deep and the knowledge that can be garnered benefits both budding and experienced entrepreneurs.

Special thanks to Susan for sharing with us. You can find her products showcased on her Etsy shop at www.NaturallySusans.Etsy.com. Susan is also selling this month at the following markets: Artists & Fleas, Exhale Spa, Etsy NY's Holiday Handmade Cavalcade at Chelsea Market, and more, so please check out her calendar at www.NaturallySusans.com/news. And we didn't forget about her giveaway! The details of her special product GIVEAWAY are below. Enter for your chance to win HERE!

Roll On Moisturizers & Natural Perfumes 3-Pack Gift Set

Retail value: $63.00

WIN the set! Packaged in convenient roll on applicators, our natural perfumes are made with a blend of essential oils to stimulate, calm and heal. They're noncomedogenic, fast-absorbing, and versatile so they can be used as moisturizers too! Pop these into your purses, carry-on bags, and gym bags…they'll be all you need when you're on the go!

Gift set includes three (3) roll on moisturizers & natural perfumes:

1 - Lavender Chamomile
1 - Rose Patchouli
1 - Ylang Ylang

Gift packaged in a white gift box with green ribbon. Patch test for skin sensitivity. Results may vary.

This is perfect for the holiday season! Can I enter even though I did the interview?

Enter to WIN H ERE!

Entry period ends at 11:59pm on Monday, December 15, 2014!

Tracey

https://www.etsy.com/shop/traceytoole