Featured Business: demetria organics

Everyone already probably knows that I am a supporter for healthier options
for cleaning my home and washing clothes, so when I was approached to try out
Soap Nuts from Demetria Organics, I was very excited!

Soap Nuts (also referred to as soap berries) are the fruit grown on the
Sapindus Mukorossi tree. The shells of the berry contain a natural cleaning
agent called saponin. When they come into contact with water and agitation
occurs, the saponin is then released. Saponin is naturally low sudsing which
makes this a perfect natural laundry detergent alterative for all washing
machines including high efficiency machines.

When I received my sample, I have to admit, my first thought was - is this
REALLY going to clean our laundry?

I was happy and surprised when they did ... over and over again with the same
soap nuts! My toddler clothes came out clean and best of all, they didn't
irritate my daughters very sensitive skin! I also washed the baby bedding and
clothes with the soap nuts knowing that my new baby would not have to worry
about any chemicals against her brand new skin.

I decided to give them a good test by washing some of our clothes we wore out
to my parents farm. These clothes come back from outside play with the dog, cats
and farm mess. Again, clean clothes without any perfume smells!! I'm hooked and
with their great price, it's an easy switch for our family!

The Ispiration

During the winter of 2009 I began researching greener & more healthful
cleaning alternatives. I was gradually getting more frustrated with the products
on the market. I found companies were not being so forthcoming about the
ingredients in the products (using such tactics as putting ingredients on the
backs of labels & placing the "good" ingredients in easy to see places on
the label & the hiding the "not so good" ingredients amongst other text
somewhere on the label.)

I came across soap nuts during my search & after trying them was a
convert. We have partnered with a fair-trade organization directy in Nepal, so
are dealing directly with the source.

What is the most rewarding thing about being a mom running your own
business?

It is hard to choose one thing because there are so many aspects that truly
are a joy. I would have to say hearing feedback from customers & having them
as excited about the product as you are. I always have to giggle when customers
say "I'm actually excited to do my laundry!" It is gratifying when you can see
your dream & vision really start to bloom..

What's your motivation?

I am naturally self-motivated when it comes to running the business but
building relationships with our customers & suppliers is what keeps it
going. I like that consumers want to become more educated about their purchases
on various levels (financial, health, sustainability). Not every product is
right for every person & traditional marketing is directed to "make the
sale". I want to see consumers see all their options and choose what works for
them, not just make that instant sale. If we can provide information to
consumers & work to bring in quality products that they can feel good about
purchasing, I know that we are on the right track.

Where do you see your business in 5 years?

We are a brand new home-based online business, so are only part-time. In 5
years I see us operating full-time with an office/warehouse space to accommodate
for larger distribution.