Interview with a Maker: Holly Grippe of Garden of Holly

Holly Grippe is a maker at our July 31st show at PRI.

You can find her work here.

Holly (H): I handcraft natural, organic products for body and home. I first learned how to make herbal infused oils and salves while attending the Arizona School of Integrative Studies for massage therapy in 1999. I also became increasingly aware of the dramatic impact on the environment and our bodies and health that commercial cosmetics and cleaning products have. I began experimenting with making my own formulations for body care products and cleaning solutions. Then in 2004 my husband and I learned we were going to have a baby, this made me determined to live as green and nontoxic as possible and I began making all of my own products including baby products. I was so pleased with the ability to control what were using on our bodies and in our home. I began sharing my formulations with friends and family, and before to long Garden of Holly was born. We are proud to offer a full line of products that never contain synthetic harsh ingredients.

Meet Your Maker (MYM): Is this your largest source of income or do you have another job?

H: It was my determination to be a stay at home mom if it was at all possible, so yes Garden of Holly is my only source of income .

MYM: Any advice to someone about making the leap from hobby crafting to selling?

H: Selling anything is a challenge, and owning your own business is a tremendous amount of work, but what better way to  work then doing something you love and believe in.

MYM: Have you had any big breaks?  How did they happen?

H: No it has been slow and steady all along.

I am grateful to live in Eugene were there is a love and respect for handcrafted products as well as an abundance of fresh organic ingredients, all of which allow me to continue to do what I enjoy.