Meet Melissa Graves of Marty Marie in Pasadena

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Graves.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Melissa. So, let’s start at the beginning, and we can move on from there.
MARTY MARIE: Eco company located in Pasadena, California. The name is in honor of my late grandfather Martin Bourassa. He taught me the art of doing business with intriguity and values. The men in my family influenced me to create my own business. My father built a sucessful law firm. He worked very hard right out of high school. He inherited that will and determination from his father, Warner Graves, who was a respected businessman. I thought if they can do this, why can’t I?

I initially created Marty Bags, heat therapy, for my massage therapy clients.  Encouraged by family and friends, I sold them to local boutiques in Pasadena. In 2008 Whole Foods Market brought them in.  A year later they were sold at 35 locations in Southern California, Arizona, and Nevada. Today they have expanded into Lassens Natural Foods, The Detox Market,  yoga studios, & eco boutiques across the nation. Years later I noticed a need for candles that were truly natural. Made with essential oils, not fragrance oils. So I sourced the best oils and found an amazingly talented supplier and launched the eco candle collection in 2017. Found it’s perfect home at Erewhon Natural Foods in the LA area. This was a humbling time considering I had my eyes on them for years and knew they carried the best of the best.

We just recently launched eco body care in March. This is fun because I looovveeeee natural, simple, fresh body care. We have coffee body scrubs, solid natural perfumes, and body oil. Hand-made without chemicals, toxins, or fragrance oils.

–www.heymartymarie.blogspot.com
–etsy.com/shop/martymariecompany.com

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?
Pretty smooth. However, I enjoyed the challenges because it made me more creative and resourceful. And tenacious. I learned that the drive must come from within. Oh, but coffee played a major role. So did nature. When I was frustrated or stressed, I’d go on a hike or run in the mountains. There I found the solutions to my obstacles. Self-care is vital when growing a company and enjoying it.

So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Marty Marie story. Tell us more about the business.
I am appreciative of the retailers, buyers, and  customers who have supported me. Proud that I choose smart accounts. Before I approach a new retailer, I do my research to see who would be a good fit.

My vision, values, and mission over the years has not been altered.  I want to expand with integrity. Which is easy when you are apart of the eco world.  And because I live in LA, in California, there is an abundance of support and opportunities for small businesses.

Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I took all my experiences, good or bad, and learned from them. I believe in hard work and being authentic. I don’t believe in waiting around for luck. I believe in action because you see the direct results. Earning your fruits is more appreciated.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.heymartymarie.blogspot.com

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