Life & Work with Michele Francis

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michele Francis.

Hi Michele, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today. 
Like everyone at their core, I simply wanted to be happy. I had strayed so far from happiness, it become unrecognizable. As a mother, a teacher, a wife, I relinquished myself for titles that possessed me. I abandoned myself, my aspirations, my interest, and my passions, and I festered a deep disdain for the existence I called “life.” I wanted to live again, so I made the commitment to foster the current version of myself. I took a leave of absence from work and dove deep into my “WHYs.” With the help of therapy and my community, I began to heal and live again. During my self-fostering, I sought out natural and physical ways to remind myself to care for self. Aromatherapy, crystals, breathwork, and self-care became the love language that cultivated a love of being present. I began curating products to promote self-care for my hands and feet, and sharing these creations and practices of self-care birthed Bailey’s Daisy. 

Bailey’s Daisy is a multi-sensory self-care store, providing tools and products to ground you in the now. Over the past two years, Bailey’s Daisy has participated in local flea and farmer’s markets throughout Los Angeles County. While engaging with customers, we share a mutual exchange of love and light, making an investment of time or commerce a memorable experience. Since 2021, we have supplied products and tools that stimulate the senses and grounding you in the now, because “the present is a gift”. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I will admit, the economy produced during the Covid-19 Pandemic casted a romantic depiction of being a small business owner. The roads were freshly paved and appeared to be plated in gold. Many customers had access to more money than they typically would and were very generous customers. 2021 and the first quarter of 2022 were amazing and fruitful. Business was effortless, but that was short-lived. By second quarter, sales had plummeted and have yet to recover. Although it is extremely challenging operating a small business during a recession, I am grateful for the pivots and risks it has encouraged me to take. I am reimaging Bailey’s Daisy, and I am optimistic of what is to come. However, I would be dishonest if I ignored the ominous reality upon the economy as I watch dozens of my fellow small business owners have permanently stop operating. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My current life’s work can be divided into three occupations: entrepreneur, educator, and mother. Each of these passions contribute to my growth, happiness, and optimism for the future. Becoming a business owner was never on the horizon I had drawn for my future, but universe discerned an unforeseen path. Owning a novelty retail business allowed me to share the journey of healing with thousands of strangers and, through our parallel healing journeys, forge lifelong relationships and bonds. I try my best to make every interaction with me and my brand a pleasurable, multi-sensory experience. 

In addition to being the owner of Bailey’s Daisy, I am an extremely passionate educator. I currently work with Los Angeles Unified School District and the Sheriff’s Youth Foundation to create programs to stimulate minority students’ interest in the sciences. I curate and teach STEM curriculum that is engaging, rigorous, and culturally relevant for students. My educational experience also privies me to provide tutoring services for students all throughout Los Angeles County. Being granted with the opportunity to support students’ acquisition of content knowledge and confidence divinely heals my inner child with unmet academic needs. 

Lastly, the suture that tethers my passion, optimism, creativity, and drive is being a mother. My daughter is the namesake of my business and the catalyst that catapulted my decision to stop existing and start living. Being a mother is a significant impetus in all of my actions. Witnessing my daughter lead heart first has taught me the impact of love and inspired me to Love Loud in all ventures. Leading with my heart has garnished much success and made grand impacts on customers and students, and I have my daughter to thank. 

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I love the diversity of Los Angeles but dislike the cost of developmental advances. 

Contact Info:

• Website: baileysdaisy.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/baileysdaisy_
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@baileysdaisyllc