Vendor Spotlight: Summer Solace
“Summer Solace Tallow is a small, family-owned business dedicated to the production of slow-made, deeply nourishing, organic tallow-based skincare and home goods. Established in Spring 2014 by organic chef and gardener Megan Bre Camp in Oakland, California.”
How did you become a creator / business owner?
When I saw friends with children suffering from eczema and diaper rash, I realized there was something I could do. Based on my time as a natural foods chef, I knew specific high-quality ingredients could help. My mind lit up with an idea. What if I created a high-quality skincare line that helped more people who battled skin conditions like dry skin or irritations? My dream started to take form. Moreover, my brand would take skin care further and focus on sustainability and local resources. Within a week, I came up with the concept of all the supplies I needed to make the products. By the fifth day, I got my business license, seller's permit, zoning permit, and that afternoon, the brand was in three different shops. As I look back on those first few days after inspiration struck. I was on fire that week and filled with inspiration.
“As a woman of color with Indigenous roots, I believe that we should have a connection to what we put on our skin and use in our homes—connecting to the land, environment and seasons and my community through the farmers’ market sparked me to build my brand around the Slow Body Movement™.”
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Any advice for new BIPOC business owners?
Persevere by knowing your truth, staying honest with your mission, and having the courage to keep working on your brand and yourself. Stay proud of your heritage which gives context to the work you want to do. Also, stay on top of your taxes!
Fave snack from your family background?
I grew up with my veteran father in Anchorage, Alaska, who is of the ethnic minority of the Central Highlands of Vietnam from the Sedang Tribe. I have fond memories of fishing and camping in the bright Alaskan Summers. A beloved snack we would have together outdoors is a steaming hot cup of CUP O’ NOODLES, chicken flavor, and International Delights instant coffee.
What’s your dream vacation?
Sunbathing at a warm beach, slathered in Summer Solace Tallow balm
Favorite 90s R&B group?
SWV boo
Where do you see your business in 5 years?
Our commitment to a fully traceable, locally-focused supply chain is unparalleled in the health and wellness industry, and we are ceaselessly working to revitalize the wise traditional skin care practice of our ancestors by drawing these connections between ourselves, and our community, and our local environment in all facets. I manifest Summer Solace, steady on our trajectory of sustainable slow growth, as a household brand for nourishing, regenerative tallow skincare and holistic candles.
