Transforming Routines Into Rituals: Q&A with rue Santé Mindfulness-Based Self-Care™
As the latest cohort of the Seattle Restored Collective prepares to close up shop, we are pleased to feature Elizabeth Lopez, owner of rue Santé Mindfulness-Based Self Care™. Elizabeth creates purposeful, thoughtful, and intentional self-care products that work in tandem with nature to create whole-body harmony. We hope you will follow the local businesses of Seattle Restored Collective as they move on to their next endeavors.
This cohort of the Seattle Restored Market closes on July 23. Be sure to drop by and congratulate these 6 small businesses at their final Sip & Shop this Saturday, July 22.
Q: What drew you to creating your business idea?
A: Stress and mental health issues are on the rise more than ever. I founded rue Santé Mindfulness-Based Self-Care™, an eco-beauty-in-wellness brand, after a tragic loss in the family and my own health issues. My mission is to change the unrealistic perceptions of beauty and aging, and to empower people to prioritize their mental and physical health. My Mindfulness-Based Self-Care™(MBSC) approach transforms daily, rushed routines into intentional and thoughtful rituals of care with products and rituals designed to reduce stress and promote health and wellness by targeting both the body and mind and encouraging a connection to nature.
Q: Why did you want to participate in the Seattle Restored program?
A: I wanted the opportunity to test my retail concept in a brick & mortar setting as well as have a space to host events. Moreover, the Seattle Restored program is helping small businesses realize their visions, while also restoring our community and I wanted to be a part of the revitalization efforts.
Q: What’s it like working with other participants on the Collective?
A: I feel lucky to have been partnered with a great group of local businesses who truly support one another and help each other thrive. It’s been a rewarding experience to learn from, share resources, and grow together as a result of the collective. We have forged long-lasting relationships and friendships.
Q: Has this experience changed your thinking about how to proceed with your business in the future?
A: Having the opportunity to operate a retail brick & mortar business has been incredibly educational and allowed me to test my retail concept. The sales and product performance data from the collective is invaluable for my business planning and future projections.
Q: Has your experience with Seattle Restored so far opened up other opportunities?
A: Absolutely. Being in the store has boosted my brand visibility and allowed me to reach a broader audience for my products and events. The program has not only resulted in brand validation, and new customer acquisition, but also led to several opportunities within the network of Seattle Restored members.
Q: Anything else you want readers to know?
A: I can’t say enough about the work and the impact that Seattle Restored has had on small businesses like mine and the downtown community. I have witnessed first-hand the life-changing transformation that happens when an empty, shuttered storefront gives way to a beautiful art installation, maker space, restaurant, or retail shop.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SEATTLE RESTORED MARKET
Address: 1503 5th Ave
Seattle, WA 98101
Dates: May 12 – July 23