Today we’d like to introduce you to Jaz Armstrong.
Hi Jaz, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I have always been business-driven, and have my husband and I have started a number of businesses and endeavors. Previously I had an online lingerie and sportswear boutique and was looking to add a beauty-cosmetics sector. We were well into production and manufacturing when the pandemic struck, and everything halted! The company I was originally using for manufacturing closed during the pandemic. Instead of being upset about the change, I took the opportunity (and ample free time) to study further the benefits of certain botanicals, plants, and supplements. Through YouTube, online formulation classes, and trial and error, I learned how to start formulating and began making my own products. I wanted something that didn’t just smell good and look pretty but also effectively helped heal and nourish the skin and soul.
I suffered from postpartum during the early stages of building the new brand, and focusing more on my self-care through my bath and body routines, journaling, and eating better really helped me get on the other side of it. So, I knew I wanted to also ensure that my brand focused on the importance of taking time for you and the accessibility of being able to do that with quality. So, I currently have two toddlers–an actual two-year-old son and a self-care brand that has been flourishing for almost two years now, but I love every minute of it! 🙂
The Houston area is great for product-based entrepreneurs as there is so much opportunity for growth through festivals, markets, and pop-up shopping events, and I love meeting and actually talking about our products with customers in person. But, also the community of other small business owners is amazing. The economy has definitely shifted the past year, and that has been trying at some points, but the encouragement and comradery is like iron sharpening iron.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not always been easy lol. One of the biggest struggles I faced (and in so many ways still face) is getting out of my own way and fighting imposter syndrome. Which I think is something a lot of people deal with, but very early on, I would overthink opportunities and offers that would come my way because I just felt that “I’m not there or at that level yet.” Eventually, I just had to keep telling myself that I am worthy, and if I keep receiving these blessings and opportunities, let me stop questioning God! And any obstacle is merely just an inconvenience and stepping stones on my journey.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Gleaux Fresh is a skincare and self-care brand that focuses on plant-based skin wellness. We use no harsh chemicals and choose and source our ingredients with intent and care. We wanted to align our brand with brands that are considered “luxury” or high-end yet make it accessible. Quality products and ingredients shouldn’t just be available for the few.
We are working on getting permanent in-store placement locally in Houston as well as in Louisiana, so hopefully, by the end of 2023, we will not only be available online but in person at our various events and local retailers.
What makes you happy?
Happy for me is family and making a difference. I love my family and the legacy that I am building and that I came from. I want to make sure that my son grows to be this happy and loving human who does well for others and the planet. And I try my hardest to lead by that example. And just knowing that I am possibly affecting someone positively through my actions or deeds just makes me feel better and brings me joy. This is one of the reasons why we started the Gleaux Honey Initiative, to help our community in ways that we can and choose to give a portion of sales to organizations that are out there doing the work that we physically can’t.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://gleauxfresh.com
- Instagram: @gleauxfresh
- Facebook: facebook.com/gleauxfresh
