Today we’d like to introduce you to Krystyl Wright.
Krystyl, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My mother has been in education for the last 22 years in Compton Unified School District, and much of her sacrifice and compassion showed me that while being in service, we often sacrifice self-care for the greater good.
As a Clinical Psychotherapist, mental health is near and dear to my heart. To integrate mental health with our passion for making sustainable changes for working people, my mother and I set out to help people intentionally take time for themselves.
LOT XI is not only a source of “retail therapy,” but we encourage self-care for individuals who need a moment for a great escape. We created LOT XI for our love of community first, and a love of fashion second. Our humble beginning started in an up-cycled shipping container in West LA with a mixed of fashion and all things handcrafted.
From this space, we evolved into an urban apothecary with a wide variety of hand-made body care products. LOT XI, an urban apothecary, allows my mother and I to work together, blend our passions, and work toward the betterment of our community.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Not sure a smooth road actually exists. If it was smooth, not sure, we could truly appreciate how much we have learned along the way. Thus, we would opt for the lessons.
One of the challenges we have experienced was connecting to our “why.” We were both passionate about doing the work but struggled in the beginning to communicate it. Once we understood why we created this company, we were able to streamline our products to self-care products.
Another challenge we have faced is reaching the hearts and minds of people whose first languages are “go” and “multitask.” We are still mastering this language. However, we have been able to focus on handcrafting a good product that people love enjoying the physical and emotional benefits of. Doing this ensures our values are in line with our business practices.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the LOT XI story. Tell us more about the business.
Originating in Compton, California, LOT XI is a community-conscious urban apothecary. Our products are curated and handcrafted. The quality of our products are important to us which is why we use environmentally safe and organic ingredients.
Our ingredients are purchased through fair trade, and we do not store an excess of products in a warehouse. We purchase fresh ingredients from local farmers and pride ourselves in supporting other entrepreneurs. We incorporate these essential 11 principles: community, social justice, forgiveness, well-being, health, spirituality, clarity, growth, self-investment, family and education.
We champion a variety of Compton-based causes and donate quarterly. Our core products include bath bombs, facial masks, bath teas handcrafted soaps, organic sugar scrubs, body butters, and coconut wax candles. We are known for our handcrafted urban apothecary and creating experiences for people to feel.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I wouldn’t call it luck. I would call it setting intentions that reverberate and return. We have learned patience with receiving the assistance requested on the universe. We have also learned forgiveness for our missteps and oversights in running a small business.
The most useful intentions returned to us have been those that inspire learning and growth such as the need to be open to feedback and help. Hence, we have been able to create strong relationships with many small business owners and welcome collaborations.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lotxi.com
- Email: [email protected]
Image Credit:
Jerome A. Shaw
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