Meet Hulsey Gilchrist | Founder & Maker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Hulsey Gilchrist and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Hulsey, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting my own business was a decision that stemmed from a combination of personal experiences and a desire to create something meaningful. It began when I started making my own skincare products after a lifetime of struggling with sensitive skin and eczema. I tried countless products, from steroid creams to high-end skincare, but never really found anything to work well (if at all). I decided to simplify, and I found a remarkable improvement in my skin when I began using products with natural ingredients. However, I couldn’t find products on the market that had exactly what I was looking for, so I decided to take matters into my own hands. I began taking online classes on herbal skincare, studying books on herbs and botanicals, and I soon started experimenting and formulating my own skincare products.

But my decision to start my own business went beyond my personal skincare journey. I was extremely unhappy in my career at the time, and I was looking for a change. The process of making my own products helped me realize that I had the opportunity to make a positive impact on others who shared similar struggles with their skin. Starting this venture was not just about creating a successful business – it was about pursuing my passion, helping others, and bringing confidence and relief to those who had also faced skin challenges. I wanted to offer products that people could trust, crafted with care and research, and using only high-quality natural ingredients.

Looking back, I’m grateful for the experiences and realizations that led me down this path. Starting my own business has allowed me to combine my personal struggles and professional knowledge to create something that truly resonates with others.

What should our readers know about your business?
My brand is rooted in a deep appreciation for Colorado and all the wonderful ingredients that this vibrant state has to offer. I am proud to source locally and be a member of Colorado Proud, constantly seeking opportunities to incorporate regional ingredients into my products. By doing so, I aim to showcase the rich diversity of farms and artisans in Colorado.

Another defining feature of my brand is the infusion of botanical ingredients. I have always been drawn to the healing and nurturing power of herbs. The belief that the Earth provides much of what we need to care for ourselves is at the core of my brand, and it inspires me to create products that harness the potency of nature. This inspiration can be seen in botanical infused oils that are the basis for most of my products. Herbs and botanicals have the incredible ability to support our skin’s health, and when paired with high-quality natural ingredients, it makes for effective skin and body care products.

In line with my commitment to making a positive impact, sustainable packaging has been an important consideration in my business. I aim to minimize waste and ensure that my products contribute to a greener future. It has been an ongoing challenge to find sustainable alternatives that not only align with my values but also work well and look great. I am proud to share that all of my packaging can be recycled, composted, or reused. Knowing that I am putting out sustainable options and not contributing to waste is very important. I hope to continue to make sustainable improvements in my company and begin donating portions of my proceeds to charities that share the same values in the future.

I have always been cautious and introverted, so taking a chance on this business and putting myself out there has not always been easy. Creating a brand is like marketing yourself and your interests, and it can be challenging to put yourself out there for others’ consideration. I am still working on learning to accept praise rather than fear failure. I recognize that skincare and body care products are deeply personal choices. They have the potential to impact how individuals feel both physically and emotionally. My ultimate goal is to help people feel comfortable and confident about the look and feel of their skin, all while using products crafted with care and conscious choices in mind.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love coffee and drinks, and last year my husband and I decided to try every coffee place in Loveland and Fort Collins. I have two favorites, though it’s hard to go wrong with any coffee options in the area. In Loveland, FeelLove Coffee’s iced coffee and tea elixir offerings can’t be beaten. In Fort Collins, I always stop by Lima for their creative seasonal coffee flights. A fun place to end the night is at CopperMuse Distillery for one of their craft mocktails (their cocktails are great too).

For food, my pick is always Tasty Harmony. They offer a completely plant-based menu and everything tastes amazing.

There’s plenty to do in the area as well. I love to look around all of the antique stores in the area in search of pieces for my market setup. For live music, Washington’s in Old Town Fort Collins is a cool venue to see bands perform.

No trip to Northern Colorado would be complete without exploring the natural beauty that surrounds the area. Take advantage of all the open spaces and nature areas in Loveland and Northern Colorado for daily dog walks. On the weekends, head to Lory State Park or up to Estes for some truly beautiful hiking. Of course, you can’t miss Horsetooth Reservoir for hiking or kayaking!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to the incredible people and businesses who have played a significant role in my journey. Success and growth are never achieved alone, and I am grateful for the efforts, support, mentorship, love, and encouragement I’ve received along the way.

Two Loveland small businesses have shown me and my business a great amount of support. Minimal Market, located in downtown Loveland, is a fantastic low-impact bulk grocery store that holds a special place in my heart as they were the first store to carry my products. Their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices aligns with my values, and I deeply appreciate their support in helping me introduce my creations to a wider audience. I also want to express my gratitude to Andee Hoos at Corruption Hair Studio, a local business that has been a true supporter of my own venture. Not only does Andee provide amazing curly haircuts and advocate for using clean products, but she has also been generous with her advice on social media strategies and the ins and outs of navigating a small business. Be sure to check both of these businesses out!

No shoutout would be complete without acknowledging the support of my family and friends. Thank you to my parents for shaping my perspective that you can do anything with hard work and determination. And thank you to the rest of my family and friends for testing my products, giving me feedback, and always showing up for me. Your presence in my life is a constant reminder of the power of community and the strength that comes from having a solid support system. I am truly fortunate to have you all by my side.

And to my incredible husband, thank you for your encouragement. Your love and support is what got me here. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner.

To each and every one of you, thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Website: https://www.elixirbodyco.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elixirbodyco/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hulsey-gilchrist-794347274

Image Credits
Hulsey Gilchrist