by Jennifer Velasquez

We are excited to talk with team member Dawn Petter of Petalune Herbals. Dawn is a creative herbalist, healer and flower essence practitioner based in Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Through Petalune Herbals she shares her passion for plant based healing with her organic and sustainably harvested, preservative free herbal skincare.

NYHC: What is unique or different about your process and/or designs?

Dawn Petter: Being a herbalist in itself is a very creative process, but I also have a background in design, and this combination allows me to bring two areas of expression that are near to my heart, together, thus blending the healing benefits of the plants with a beautiful aesthetic.

NYHC: Do you have any favorite pieces?

DP: The Nourishing Face Cream is my favorite product. It took me two years to formulate the blend, and since making creams was my initial inspiration for going to herb school, being able to do this, has been a great thrill.

NYHC: What is your favorite tool or supply?

DP: I love to work with freshly harvested medicine, especially if it's something I have grown or harvested myself.

NYHC: Is there a new piece/opportunity/change that you're excited about?

DP: I am always developing new pieces and my clients are the inspiration. New products in the works that support the health of our lungs are where I am focusing my energies currently. I have been using Zoom as a teaching medium and a way to work with clients who I would usually meet in person. I offer herbal consults and flower essence consults, both of these are traditional practices that are filled with potential benefits for those who want to embark on that path.

NYHC: Share an important lesson you've learned from running your business.

DP: A few years ago I purchased a bulk order for a specific set of jars that I thought I would use. Ordering in bulk meant the price per jar was very reasonable, but I never needed even half of what I ordered, so now, I keep a very tight reign on my materials and supply inventory, so that I don't over extend my budget. It’s a fine line between running out of things and over purchasing.