Working through the vision. Aromatic Traditions™ 2015 After I read Paul Hawken's book The Ecology of Commerce back in the early 90's, I started to think about his term "restorative economy". At the time I was applying some of his thoughts to my own businesses - a healing studio, a store which featured items made from recycled materials and my own body care business. At the time I had a small farm and was very focused on creating the best soil so that I could take advantage of the short growing seasons in northern Pennsylvania. I was also a massage therapist with a message. Restoration. Restoration of self , community and eventually planet. As I see myself now going forward I am working more and more towards the goal of restoring myself, then community, then planet. How? Slowing down and taking an assessment of my energy drains in my personal life. I've decided that I can no longer foster relationships that are not reciprocal. I had to take a close look at lip service versus acts of friendship and kindness. For my community, I keep my company production "close to the bone" as I like to say. I know where my raw materials come from by working with companies (some of whom I have had a relationship with for over 15 years) who are committed to transparency and ethical sourcing. Waste and packaging is another consideration. I was thrilled to be one of the first employees working for a co-op who took the sustainability model seriously - from raw materials in the door to waste out the door and nothing, yes NOTHING went into a landfill. Now, there is a role model. I recycle and take good care when sourcing my packaging materials. I re-use, recycle and refill. This is just the beginning as we all need to know how to trim off the fat in our production and use. How "big" do I want to get? I recently read an interview with another maker which echoed a friend of mine's business policy. Both expressed the idea of keeping it small and manageable. This way they as artists can keep their hands in the creative mix and not lose integrity of what they are making to mass production. And for that matter - mass consumption. Another issue of our society. We don't need all this stuff. Over the next few months I am excited to explore some other small, niche manufacturers to see how they are using efficiency models and how I might want to set up my business statement to reflect sustainability. As always, I am open to your comments. Blessings.
Self-Care Ritual Boxes Aromatic Traditions 2015 So what is Self-Care? Self-care is any intentional action you take to tend to your emotional, physical, mental and spiritual well-being. Buzz word -- intentional. We need to initiate something for ourselves. Not so easy for most of us, don't you agree? Like the "shoemaker's son" I am guilty of putting off my personal needs for the needs of others; family, neighbors, customers, etc. and find myself at the bottom of the barrel. The bottom is dry - not juicy. The bottom feels empty - not full. The bottom seems dark - not light. Creativity gets stagnant - lacks flow. Have you noticed that doing one small thing a day can turn these feelings around? Something as simple as lighting a candle and soaking in some fine bath salts. You know that "Ahhhhh..." when you slip into the water and feel your muscles sigh in relief. You let go, you surrender. And with surrender, your heart opens and into it flows all the juiciness, full-filling and lightness the world has to offer. Here is a postcard which is included in one of my four Ritual Boxes: Feel free to substitute any of the products that you have around your home and create a Water Renewal Ritual for yourself. Blessings to YOU! We've launched our first box -- Renewal, Elemental Water Ritual -- check it out here: http://www.aromatictraditions.com/collections/organic-holiday/products/birch-pearl-botanical-soap-sampler Shhhh...each box contains a one-of-a-kind talismans designed by artist Linda Lee of Dragonhill Studio
NEW Product - 4 Self-Care Ritual Boxes Aromatic Traditions™ 2015 Thrilled to launch these new and thought-filled "Self-Care Elemental Ritual Boxes". Our first box: Renewal - Elemental Water Ritual is packed to the brim with our farm-fresh products, a detachable ritual instruction card and a sweet little one-of-a-kind talisman designed by Linda Lee at Dragon Hill Studios in California. You can check it out here: Elemental Water Ritual - Renewal Aromatic Traditions™ 2015 http://www.aromatictraditions.com/collections/organic-holiday/products/self-care-rituals-elemental-water-ritual-renewal I love our ritual card. Each ritual is care-fully designed to lead you deep into a state of total relaxation and self-care. We will continue our blog series with inspiration to fill your cup. Blessings.
Spa-Maker© series coming soon. Aromatic Traditions™ 2016 Do what you love and everything else will follow. Aromatic Traditions™ is 4 years old. Our anniversary was 11/11/15. Usually I throw a nice party at my studio and people stop by to visit, shop my retail shelves and snack on delicious local goodies. This year I was busy packing up the final pieces for a natural baby line and prepping bulk orders for several spas. You see, my focus has changed. Changed because my customers asked. I had no idea when I started that I would be doing Custom Manufacturing and Private Label. I put a few pages up on my website and the rest is word of mouth. Organic. The best referral is from other customers. The learning curve has been a little steep. However, I like a good challenge and found that I love formulating and creating in my lab. It is quiet, focused and creative. I am also co-evolving with several of the spas who were my first customers. As they grow, so do I. It felt natural today as I cleaned up my creative space and started to de-stash bottles and jars. I really do not have much overstock so my inventory is changing as well. I have created several gift sets for the holidays and I am feeling a little bittersweet saying goodbye to some of my favorite products. I will soon offer a first-come-first-serve discount to my online retail customers. These formulas will now be available for my new niche - spas and massage therapists who make their own products and have reached a point where they want someone else to produce for them. It is a niche I am familiar with as I was a massage therapist for 25 years and know the industry. I also love working with spas. I love people who pamper and encourage others in the tradition of self-care. I'm excited for this new chapter in Aromatic Traditions™ life. Enjoy the holiday discounts online and call me if I can help your spa or massage practice. Blessings.
Transparent since 1998. Aromatic Traditions™ 2015 I remember vividly a conversation I had with the owner of a very large essential oil company back in the 90's. He told me that my company would never make it because I used precious essential oils and plant extracts in my formulations. 15 years later I'm still doing it. I didn't listen to him. Now creating with the benefit of plant-derived materials vs. synthetics is mainstream. (Heck, synthetics have only been around for a short period of time on the space/time continuum). I like to stick pretty close to the Earth. How about you? First I pay attention to my soil which is amended with compost. Soil is the heart of my line. My son is experimenting with composting now for my floating garden. Yes! We have a floating compost pile. (He has also won a scholarship to the Conserve School in Wisconsin. I can't help but think all of my direction - pleasant word for broken record demands- toward composting and recycling made an affect. Proud Momma moment. Thanks for listening.) So back to is "Green" Really the New Black? I can't say that I take offense to green-washing as it brings to light (in contrast) conservation and spotlights ideas that so many of us stood for many years ago. I am talking the 60's and 70's. Some of us risked a LOT not to sell out and to take a stand for Mother Nature. What I do find difficult is that so many people have jumped on the bandwagon - yeah and now green, organic, local-ingredients, etc is becoming banal. adjective 1. devoid of freshness or originality; hackneyed; trite: a banal and sophomoric treatment of courage on the frontier. Yes, that's the word I heard at a recent conference. How do we differentiate, stand out, if we use the same words to describe what we do. I can't help but think - I've been waiting for this! and now it is passe? For some of us who really do make an effort to plant, harvest, dry, infuse and amend. Who follow the laws of nature and abide with respect - what? Maybe I'm not understanding the question. Perhaps this blog isn't clear. I want to hear your thoughts? I'm interested in a dialogue. Thanks, Sue
Sacred Space Aromatic Traditions 2015 “Sometimes I wonder if any of us are cut out for the lives we lead.” ― Rebecca Wells, Little Altars Everywhere Really! If you told me a two years ago that I would be where I am now - living on a floating home in Portland Oregon - I would have felt a little overwhelmed (to say the least). It was a real push to pack up my home, lab and part of my family and move across the country. As soon as we unpacked, we began to renovate from the water up. Yes! We replaced the float system of old growth logs underneath or home, put in a sub-floor, later flooring, electricity and plumbing. I am also living a bi-coastal relationship. There is nothing easy about it. You miss the cues, the little things your senses pick up about your partner. There is nothing physical about it. Today was a really difficult day. We all have them. Sometimes we have them more than we care to. Today the sun came out and shown through my kitchen window illuminating my greenhouse and statue. A gentle reminder to stop, slow down, and take the moment IN. Ahhhhhhh.... It is time to be grateful to everyone and everything that brought me to this moment. Sometimes I feel like I am not cut out for the life I chose because I forgot to be grateful for everything that got me here in the first place. Thank You! I am grateful.
FRESH FACE for Aromatic Traditions™ 2017 After a brief hiatus working in the corporate world for a local manufacturing company, Aromatic Traditions is back with a new look and mission. Take a look at our "About" page to get a feel. Aromatic Traditions™ is a botanical skin care formulating and consulting company for natural and organic skin care product companies. Our clients include luxury retail artisans, high-end spas and massage therapists. Aromatic Traditions’s top-quality, result-driven products are free of hash chemicals and manufactured to exacting standards. Allow our award winning expertise to develop your brand and take it to production. WE TAKE YOUR BRAND BY THE HAND FROM CONCEPTION TO PRODUCTION Launched in 1998 with our fabulous “Blue Pearl” moisturizer, Aromatic Traditions transitioned from a retail formulator/manufacturer to a private label/custom consulting and manufacturing business. Combined with over 20 years of perfume and herbal experience, Aromatic Traditions™ is able to provide our clients with both expert scent consultation as well as natural/herbal formulations. IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS: We believe in your BEAUTY AND HEALTHY We promote and utilize ORGANIC AGRICULTURE, FAIR TRADE AND SUSTAINABILITY We utilize as much as possible LOCAL and MINDFUL HARVESTING OF RAW MATERIALS. We believe in charitable giving back to our communities and the earth. OUR MISSION IS SIMPLE: “To create elegant and natural products that nourish your innate beauty”
Floating Garden Aromatic Traditions 2015 Everything that slows us down and forces patience, everything that sets us back into the slow circles of nature, is a help. Gardening is an instrument of grace. -Mary Sarton When all else fails - I go to the garden. Picking my first red, ripe tomato. Boy, I had to be patient waiting for just the right moment to pull this one off the vine. P-a-t-i-e-n-c-e. I still grow tomatoes. So does my father. His father, my grandfather, did too. He would walk every night to his tomato plant down the hill step by step until his last day. I often wondered if he planted that far away as inspiration to get up and move. To remain a farmer. Gardening is in my blood. Before I moved to Portland, I fantasized about building a floating garden like the Aztec gardens you read about when you were a kid. I salvaged an old swim platform and began to plant. The first to thrive - Calendula Officinalis, a major ingredient in my products. (Check out this blogpost for a Calendula Infused oil: http://aromaticpassport.blogspot.com/2015/07/deep-in-their-roots.html) The blossoms were huge. We both found a home to be nourished and thrive. Grace.
Blue Pearl - bestseller since 1998. Aromatic Traditions™ Tonight I'm feeling bittersweet. I'm bottling up likely the last Blue Pearl Face Serum batch for who knows how long. The formula certainly has had a few versions since 1998. I can still remember when I "got" the recipe. We were driving through the Catskills and I "heard" the formula. I had to open the glove-box to get a piece of scratch paper to write it down. I've been making it since 1998 and I know the formula has a few fans. The base will soon become a staple for my spa-maker© series. In a few months I plan to launch a new niche servicing spas and massage therapists who make their own products. I'm looking forward to the transition. I am also a bit sad cleaning out my lab to make room for this new venture. Its like a birth. I'm fluffing up the nursery to prepare for the new baby's arrival. I can feel the energy building and it is a bit of a challenge to contain it. I'm grateful to those of you who love these products and who have remained faithful to the brand. You won't be forgotten. And if you get stuck and haven't stocked up during my upcoming sale. Well, you know where to find me and I'll make sure to get some to you. As one customer and friend said "just package it in any old plastic tub and send it to us". Thank you all for your loyalty and we'll be hearing from you soon when we announce our upcoming sale. Be well.
Offerings Aromatic Traditions Spring 2015 In my Tradition there is an understanding that everything is energy - all has a frequency. Before the snow fell I placed sand dollars gathered along the Oregon Coast as an offering to my East Coast garden to bridge the energies between both coasts. It is a deep honoring to the connection between what has come to pass and all of the possibilities to come. Many blessings to all who are reading this - may you continue to build your bridges. This is my final blog post on the East Coast. Open roads to all.
The Khata Tree© Project Aromatic Traditions 2014 A few years ago I had a vivid dream. I saw a Khata (a ceremonial scarf symbolizing goodwill and compassion) streaming from a tree void of leaves. The dream struck and I began to find a way to manifest that vision. I started to write and illustrate a children's book. Here is the first layer of a painting illustrating a young Tibetan girl who has discovered a Khata. Tibetan Girl with Khata© S. Varga Several illustrations for the book were completed and then the project stalled. Life caught up with me. Kid's soccer games, Aromatic Traditions™ began to grow, I put the paintbrush down. A few months later I decided to reach out to a dear friend who worked for a local museum. We had collaborated on several different children's projects for the museum. She had an idea. I proposed a workshop which taught children about bridging cultures and won the Rose Family Grant. Here is the culmination of the Khata Tree Project© (as it stands now). We worked with a local area youth center with at-risk pre-teens and teens. The kids were amazing. We used storytelling and art to bridge cultures. Individual Khatas painted by local teens. What had begun as a dream ended as a full-blown project. Every kid in the youth center had an opportunity to participate in some way. We shared stories, food, blessings and music as each child spoke about their piece. Moral of story: dreams are manifesting all around us - grab one and hold on tight.
Giant blooms of Calendula from floating garden. May 2015 My heart feels like crying today. Aromatic Traditions opens tomorrow as promised from our new floating oasis in Scappoose OR. So grateful for all of the help along the way. More pictures and stories to come of my amazing journey. Just wanted to say "Hi" to everyone and let you know that I miss you every day and hold your goodness in my heart. From my heart to yours...
*p*O*p open the bubbly -- May 20, 2015 NEW! logo, NEW! labels and best of all -- I've made it to our NEW! location in Scappoose, OR. As promised Aromatic Traditions is open for business. (Truth be told, I never did close, orders and customer visits happened while traveling cross country.) What can I say, I love working with you all and helping you make your dreams come true! Cheers to our new adventures! *p*O*p
It's a tradition for me to make Fire Cider with friends. It is a great way to share recipes, stories and the best part - laughter. Have you tried it? I love to have some around to add to soups, stews and salad dressings. It adds zip and is a powerful decongestant. There are a lot of great benefits. It depends on what you put in it. It is particularly beneficial to have on hand during cold and flu season. So let's get this party started... Get your favorite people together and start prepping. Fire Cider Ingredients: -fresh grated organic ginger root -fresh grated organic horseradish root -fresh grated turmeric root -chopped onion -organic garlic, peeled and crushed -organic jalapeno peppers sliced lengthwise (any kind of hot chili pepper will work) -zest and juice of an organic lemon -sprigs of fresh organic rosemary -organic apple cider vinegar Find a container that you want to use to pour or store. Make sure it is clean. Once you have all of your vegetables prepped start adding them to your jar. I like to loosely fill a quart size mason jar. Once you've selected the ingredients that you like fill the jar with organic apple cider vinegar. If using a mason jar with a metal lid, place a piece of parchment or wax paper between the lid and jar. Screw lid on tightly and shake. Store in a cool, dark place for 30 days. Strain using cheesecloth and squeeze the pulp to get the goodness out of the roots and enjoy. Some people like to add a little bit of honey (get the good kind) and enjoy it as a tonic. Fire Cider fixin's. Best of all...have some good laughs while you're making your tonic. Laughter is the BEST medicine.
Girl has got her priorities on straight. It all started a week ago when I decided I wanted to stop being invisible. In my business and in my life. Not hide behind "fear of success", " fear of failure"...just plain fear. I made a call to Indie Business Network owner Donna Maria and signed up for her "Stand Out Sister" one-hour phone consultation. She blew me away. She shined the light right in and there I was looking at my business Aromatic Traditions™ from an entirely different perspective. I was excited, I was stoked, I was ready to roll out the new website and prepare to launch... then it happened....the fear... it came back. Things started falling apart. The self-sabotage mechanisms started working. My old familiar patterns started to kick in. AND At the same time, orders started to roll in. Old accounts called asking for new lines. New accounts wanted to launch sooner than later. Customers started to text orders. Something had shifted just enough to allow room for the next step. I took it. Yeah, I made one batch of product three times as I worked through the issues. I'm a little behind my schedule (getting this blog out is part of it). My dishes are pilled high in the sink. Oh well. And the self-sabotage part of myself - I took it and my son to a ballgame this evening and then to dinner. Priceless. I'm going to be working with this fear for a long time, might as well bring it along for the ride and focus on what really counts - making memories with my family. Love to y'all.
Practicing stillness before the whirlwind of change. -Aromatic Traditions's organic garden 2015
Plein Air Botanical Painting Aromatic Traditions 2014 After graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Art in Communication Design - a fancy name for Graphic Designer - I found myself designing and drawing things commercially like trucks, abalone cutters and yes, I designed a logo for a condom company. A gentle feather with a bit of a tilt at the tip. I cut my chops at a Mom and Pop printing shop on upper State Street in Santa Barbara, CA. The head designer the wife and the head of the print shop her husband. Every day was pressure packed as I typeset, rendered drawings and cut and paste pounds of galleys and images to boards. Yes, this was the old method before desktop computers. We had a lot of fun and we worked our asses off. Some big name accounts used our services as well as walk-in customers. Needless to say, I found Graphic Design boring. Years later I decided to take a leap and signed up for a botanical painting class at my local arts center. I immediately fell in love with the teacher's style. She was quiet and each time she said something about what I was painting it had meaning and I could immediately move to the next step. She became my painting guru. I decided to sign up for private lessons and my love of botanical painting began. Tiger Lily© S. Varga 2014 It felt fulfilling to sit in a spot in the garden, take a deep breath and begin to paint what I felt. Although botanical painting calls for a bit of perfection - you have to catch the spirit of the plant or flower. In the moment. They change by the minute as the sun shines and they start to bloom or fade. You have only a small window of time to paint. Part of the Aromatic Traditions™ logo contains a drawing of White Sage. A plant that is dear to me as it is used often for smudging prior to ceremonies. (I always smudge my laboratory before I begin any product). Here is a bit of blessing for you... White Sage© S. Varga 2014 May you always walk in beauty.
Rose hip harvest. Fall 2015 It is December in Wicklow: Alders dripping, birches Inheriting the last light, The ash tree cold to look at. A comet that was lost Should be visible at sunset, Those million tons of light Like a glimmer of haws and rose-hips, And I sometimes see a falling star. If I could come on meteorite! Instead I walk through damp leaves, Husks, the spent flukes of autumn,... -from "Exposure", Seamus Heaney Commonly known as Dog rose, Dog Brier, Brier Rose, Rose hips always remind me of the coming of Fall. As a young woman, wanting to "live off the land", I would collect bright red rose hips, grind them and make a Vitamin C packed tea. Here is my simple recipe, I hope you enjoy! Rose Hip Tea -Place fresh or crushed dried rose hips in a mason jar. -Pour boiling water over them and steep, covered for 10 minutes. -Add honey, stevia to sweeten
PA Grand Canyon - Wellsboro, PA 2015 Soul-oh! hike to the source of my creativity. Early Spring thaw along Pine Creek. A long trek in mud and ice reveals that "I am not alone - AND "all eyes are on me". The deeper I go into myself and nature, the more connected I feel to ALL. Grateful. (and Happy!)
A few years ago my husband's cousin asked me to take a trip to Ohio to give him an Oncology Massage treatment. He had recently been diagnosed with cancer and wanted to explore his options. He knew I taught classes to practitioners and had also created a clinic which matched massage therapists certified in Oncology Massage with patients undergoing treatment. My husband packed the car and we travelled several hours to his home and I began to give him treatments. We went back several times and I taught his wife how to do some of the protocols. I've done this a lot for friends and family. There is a lot of cancer going around. One evening after giving him a treatment my husband's cousin asked me to sit down with him in the living room. He wanted to talk about death. He knew that I had experienced quite a few crossings as an Oncology Massage therapist. He played a tape for me of songs he had written for his grandchildren who were not yet born. He knew that he might not meet them. The songs were gorgeous and full of his heart. After we talked about his preparations for his family he asked me... "how do you die?" I thought a while about the many faces that I saw pass through my Oncology Massage clinic. "We die like we live." He liked that and I could see him reach a state of peace that evening. I've hesitated to write the past few days. Recently a dear friend passed. I also have another who is preparing for the next "new normal" - whatever it may be. Aromatic Traditions™ began because I wanted to lighten my life after many years in the oncology field. I continue to "touch those who are touched by cancer" (my clinic slogan) by making healthy products for those who are seeking them. I also know that when a friend or family member calls - I'm there. Usually I am there before they call. I know how important touch is...I know what it feels like to wake up in a hospital bed isolated and afraid. Thank you for taking the time to read this little missive. I have committed to writing every day for 30 days and the last two were challenging. This commitment is what keeps me going on my path so that I may continue to serve. Peace.
Easy-Bake Oven, circa 1960's "The way to get started is to quit talking and start doing." -Walt Disney Tucked inside my bedroom closet. No adults please! Just grounded and my brand new chemistry set removed from my room - I create. This is how Aromatic Traditions™ began... Out of the box go the baking mixes. Into the pans go my mixes. Crayons, candle wax, flower petals from my beloved Peonies. Somewhere in my heart, I knew what I came here to do. Didn't you? I would love to hear about YOUR earliest passions... and how you stay true to them. Let's start a list. 1. Follow your heart. Listen to the voice that whispers to you (HINT: it never raises its voice).
Custom Vegan Lip Shimmer. Aromatic Traditions™ Did you know that I currently work with spas, wellness centers and massage therapists with earth-conscious sensibilities creating custom product lines? Over the years I have had the pleasure of serving other makers making them look good so they could help you look and feel pampered. In the industry we call it Private Label - you would put your label on one of my formulations... or... Custom Manufacturing - I help you design a formula or line of products that fit your vision. This particular aspect of Aromatic Traditions™ has grown significantly over the last year. Today I am in the process of creating a brand new website to service this niche. We blend in small batches so we can take your idea to market quickly. Vegan Shimmer Body Oil Aromatic Traditions™ At the root of Aromatic Traditions™ is my intention to connect the voice of nature with all levels of healing - body, mind and spirit. Our flowers and herbs come from our own floating garden on the Multnomah Channel in Oregon and from some of "the best kept secret" organic farm sources in the Willamette Valley as well. You know, the home of some of the finest Pinot's on the planet. (We believe). Oregon Pinot with Vineyard. My mission is to make personal care products in small, hand-poured batches utilizing the bounty of Oregon's niche farmers for spas and massage therapists all over the world. I am here to connect and collaborate with you by building a relationship of trust and by creating something truly extraordinary. Order fulfilled for local spa. And here is what one "spa-maker" had to say... "Aromatic Traditions™ customized products and labels has set our spa at an exciting new scale. We now have customized products exclusive to our customers with the quality; knowledge and attention from Susan's 15 years of experience. It has been a beautiful part of our evolving dream." -Laura Lee Robinson, Emerge Spa Stay tuned for more adventures from "Susan the Spa-Maker©" as I transition from online retail and wholesale to this fabulous new niche. Blessings.
A visit to Mark's Stills in Newburg, OR 2015 "We are here and it is now. Further than that, all human knowledge is moonshine". --H.L. Mencken It all started with a conversation at the local Helvatia Lavender Festival. A few sniffs later and I've purchased a beautiful bottle of Lavender Absolute. You know, no stems and seeds that we don't need - just the flowers. You'll find it in my Blue Pearl Face Serum. Moments after the purchase I notice a woman wandering off with a jug of lavender hydrosol which was just poured off from the steam distiller. Hmmm... A few phone calls later, jugs loaded in car and we are off on an adventure which takes us rambling through the beautiful Willamette Valley of central Oregon. We arrive at Mark's Stills and Dad Butch greets us as well. An olfactory adventure begins as we are introduced to not only Lavender, their specialty - but Cedar and Sequoia. "The best kept secret is Yamhill County" Butch says. I agree. I left with a quart of THE most amazing Lavender Grosso essential oil. Soon to be blended in our products. Love me some local color...and you...
Bottom Line. Every once in a while I get a chance to set my priorities - straight. The bottom line is my kid Alex. His brother too, however, he lives several thousand miles away right now. You see, I live a bi-coastal relationship for now. Half of my family in Oregon and the other half in New York. During this time we are also renovating a floating home so that my husband can semi-retire and enjoy life on the water. I, on the other hand, am growing my business. Staying true to myself and true to course is the biggest challenge. Self-employment offers a bit of freedom and you almost always work well beyond the hours you would employed by someone else. But shhhhh.... Nobody really knows that I "work". You see, I have made myself very available to my family in the beginning. I was a stepmom then. Trying my hardest to provide the kids and family with consistency and stability. This takes a lot of time and energy. Slowly I am adding bits and pieces of myself back into the picture. Kind of like Oz behind the curtain. I'm not talking ego - I'm talking fake it 'til you make it. There are no rule books for being a parent and there certainly are no rule books for step parents. Boy do I hate the word step parent. I've decided to drop it and just become Mom - because this is what I do. As I write this blog I can hear the sound of a screw being driven into a wall and my son and his Dad talking about life. I am writing this blog as part of a 30-day challenge and have committed to take my business to the next level in the midst of renovations and distractions. Because... this is what I do.
Last day of shipping 12/14/2015 A few months ago I took time to look at what Aromatic Traditions REALLY does and found that 64% of my business was serving the spa and indie maker sector. It was a lightbulb moment. To better serve, isn't it best to serve those who are asking for what one has? I believe so. I have mixed feelings of joy blended with creative excitement and a swirl of ideas waiting to manifest in tangible ways...a new website is in the design phase, garden fresh products are formulated and ready for testing in the lab and a fabulous communication service for busy spa-makers will be launched soon. A big thank you and a huge hug of gratitude to all of you who love Aromatic Traditions products and botanical perfumes. I've met some really great people and reconnected with old friends. My transition begins on our last shipping day of December 14th. Enjoy my thank you by using discount code GRATITUDE2015 on our luxury botanical products, gift sets and perfume. Blessings and have a warm and wonderful holiday season with your family and friends. Susan Varga
You know you're a sucker for muck boots when ... (packing for Portland when it is -5 in upstate NY)
"Astro" checks it out. March 2015 "When the snow melts the shit shows". I remember the moment I first heard this quote from my college photography professor. He was speaking to authenticity and transparency. I like it. It stuck and has stayed with me through every creative endeavor since. Happy Spring 2015!
Comfort food, rituals and making it all cozy. Tonight I came home with a farm fresh chicken. I grew up with access to farm-raised meat, milk and eggs so I look for the same locally. My cousins had a farm and the chicken coop was my favorite place to play. (I bet a few of you can say the same) For me the smell of a chicken roasting in the oven gives me comfort, warmth and a sense of home. I know it does for my family. I come from a long line of chicken-raising, chicken-cooking women. I clearly remember my Great Grandmother preparing chicken and waffles. My mother always roasted a perfect bird. I found a recipe that I truly love by Ina Garten. Here it is if you want to cook a chicken that will woo your loved ones... http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/engagement-roast-chicken-recipe.html Yep, I remember telling my boys that they were having engagement chicken when they were young. I kind of believe that they will compare all roast chicken against this recipe. But... this isn't the whole story. I want to talk about what it takes to make a home. To step up to the plate, to go the extra step and put your day aside and make the home warm and cozy for your family. I believe that there are many people out there that do this for their family. I don't care if you only have a bowl of rice or a can of beans (believe me, I've been there). There are just people who know how to make it special. I love the old trick I heard from a wisened girlfriend. She told me "I always slice up some onions and put them in a pan when I hear my family come in the driveway". I don't know what it is about making a house a home. Must be in our DNA to have something roasting by the fire. We get a sense of security and that everything is alright. Tonight I am doing it more for myself. I miss my family. I miss my Mom and her home cooking AND I want to be a good Mom to my kids. I want to give them sensual memories of home. Something that they can tap in to when the going gets tough. Maybe something that they can pass on. We all need a touchstone. Blessings
Elevate your wellness routine with the cooling, nuanced essence of Edens Garden Spearmint essential oil. This minty marvel stands apart with an aroma that is both refreshing and soothing, distinct from its cousin Peppermint in its gentle, bright profile. Ideal for those seeking a moment of tranquility amidst a bustling day, Spearmint essential oil is your aromatic passport to relaxation. Its uses stretch across time to the Ancient Greeks, who celebrated Spearmint for its restorative properties, infusing their bathwater with its fragrant touch for a luxurious, spa-like experience. Unlock the therapeutic benefits of this hardy branched herb, with its bright green leaves and vibrant colored flowers. Steam distilled to perfection, Spearmint oil offers more than just a minty note to floral blends—it's a versatile companion in your journey toward holistic wellbeing. Mix it with a carrier oil for a potent decongestant remedy or diffuse it to purify your living space while uplifting your senses. For a DIY twist, blend it into homemade lotions to cool and calm the skin on warm days. For those who value quality and affordability, Edens Garden ensures that each bottle of Spearmint essential oil captures the plant's full wellness benefits and minty zest. Integrate it into your daily rituals, be it a morning inhalation to start your day on a positive note or as part of your evening bath, letting its subtle fragrance coax away the stresses of the day. Spearmint isn't just an essential oil; it's a nod to simpler times and a natural path to a serene, more balanced life.
Indulge in the essence of global wanderlust with our Eco-Friendly Aromatic Passport Candles. Handcrafted with care, each candle transports you to distant destinations – from the serene lavender fields of Paris to the tropical allure of Hawaiian Islands. Immerse your space in eco-conscious luxury, as our strong yet subtle fragrances fill your home without overpowering. These candles are crafted for travel enthusiasts who appreciate quality scents. Ideal for those who frequent Bath and Body Works, Yankee Candle, and other premium brands, our candles cater to a health-conscious lifestyle. Elevate your senses, embrace the journey, and create a fragrant sanctuary that echoes your love for both travel and home comfort."
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Indulge in the essence of global wanderlust with our Eco-Friendly Aromatic Passport Candles. Handcrafted with care, each candle transports you to distant destinations – from the serene lavender fields of Paris to the tropical allure of Hawaiian Islands. Immerse your space in eco-conscious luxury, as our strong yet subtle fragrances fill your home without overpowering. These candles are crafted for travel enthusiasts who appreciate quality scents. Ideal for those who frequent Bath and Body Works, Yankee Candle, and other premium brands, our candles cater to a health-conscious lifestyle. Elevate your senses, embrace the journey, and create a fragrant sanctuary that echoes your love for both travel and home comfort."
Elevate your wellness routine with the cooling, nuanced essence of Edens Garden Spearmint essential oil. This minty marvel stands apart with an aroma that is both refreshing and soothing, distinct from its cousin Peppermint in its gentle, bright profile. Ideal for those seeking a moment of tranquility amidst a bustling day, Spearmint essential oil is your aromatic passport to relaxation. Its uses stretch across time to the Ancient Greeks, who celebrated Spearmint for its restorative properties, infusing their bathwater with its fragrant touch for a luxurious, spa-like experience. Unlock the therapeutic benefits of this hardy branched herb, with its bright green leaves and vibrant colored flowers. Steam distilled to perfection, Spearmint oil offers more than just a minty note to floral blends—it's a versatile companion in your journey toward holistic wellbeing. Mix it with a carrier oil for a potent decongestant remedy or diffuse it to purify your living space while uplifting your senses. For a DIY twist, blend it into homemade lotions to cool and calm the skin on warm days. For those who value quality and affordability, Edens Garden ensures that each bottle of Spearmint essential oil captures the plant's full wellness benefits and minty zest. Integrate it into your daily rituals, be it a morning inhalation to start your day on a positive note or as part of your evening bath, letting its subtle fragrance coax away the stresses of the day. Spearmint isn't just an essential oil; it's a nod to simpler times and a natural path to a serene, more balanced life.
Unlock the hidden secrets of nature's finest treasures with our comprehensive "Digital Handbook for Herbs & Spices." This ultimate guide is your passport to a world of culinary delights, health benefits, and holistic well-being. Inside this digital treasure, a wealth of knowledge awaits. Immerse yourself in a treasure trove of aromatic profiles and culinary applications for various herbs and spices. From the bold and pungent to the delicate and aromatic, discover the vast array of flavors that can transform your culinary creations. Elevate your cooking with tips and techniques that will turn every meal into a gourmet experience. Whether you're a seasoned chef or someone exploring the culinary world, our handbook provides insights that will ignite your creativity in the kitchen. From spice pairings to the art of cooking with herbs, unlock the potential to create dishes that tantalize the taste buds. But this guide is not just about enhancing flavors; it's a journey into the health benefits of herbs and spices. Uncover the ancient wisdom that recognizes these natural wonders as more than just kitchen essentials. They are your allies in promoting vitality from the inside out. Learn how these herbs and spices contribute not only to the taste of your dishes but also to your overall well-being. Practical advice accompanies the rich content, offering guidance on seamlessly incorporating these natural wonders into your daily life. Whether you're crafting a wellness routine or simply seeking to add more zest to your daily dishes, our "Herbs & Spices Digital Handbook" is your trusted companion on the path to flavorful, healthy living. Whether you're an experienced chef, a wellness enthusiast, or someone looking to add more zest to your daily routine, our "Herbs & Spices Digital Handbook" is your trusted companion on the path to flavorful, healthy living. Embrace the richness of nature and savor every moment. Discover the extraordinary potential of these age-old treasures; this handbook is your key to a life filled with flavor, health, and wellness. Unlock the true potential of herbs and spices today. Explore the world of taste, vitality, and well-being with our digital handbook. Embark on a journey to uncover the culinary and wellness wonders within this digital handbook. Elevate your cooking, enhance your well-being, and embrace the natural magic of herbs and spices. Your flavorful, health-conscious adventure starts here. In this herbs and spices handbook, you will enhance your knowledge about Herbs, Spices, Herbs And Spices, Herbal Remedies, DIYHerbalism, HealingHerbs, HerbalTeaRecipes, Spice Guide, SpiceBlends, Cooking with Herbs, Spice Pairing, and Organic Herbs.
Rich Aromatic Journey: Begin with the spicy allure of cardamom, transitioning through the floral elegance of iris and violet, to the warm, woody embrace of Australian sandalwood and cedarwood. Essence of Adventure: Crafted by Frank Voelkl, this fragrance is your passport to the vast, unbridled spaces of the American West, embodying freedom and the spirit of exploration. A Scent for Every Soul: Whether city dweller or countryside lover, this perfume bridges worlds, offering a universally appealing aroma that's as versatile as it is distinctive. Smells Like Freedom: More than just a scent, it's a declaration of independence, a bottle of the boundless skies and open roads that lie ahead, waiting to be discovered. Instant Classic: Daring, yet inviting, this polarizing scent captivates and sparks conversation, making it a must-have for those who command presence and appreciate uniqueness.
Ships from vendor.The Parfums de Voyage collection is a passport of aromatic expressions. Earthy yet mysterious, incense is treasured for its ability to enliven our senses, cleanse impurities, and elevate our moods. L’OBJET incense is made by a 450 years old Japanese company that only uses natural ingredients crafted entirely from paste, a method that delivers the purest fragrance possible. Bespoke home fragrance takes us on a perfumed Odyssey, inviting us to explore the world. A graphic number references a place, a year, an atmosphere as a muse for olfactory creations: the scent of a Russian tea, the spices of an oriental bazaar, the memory of a woman in Paris in 1969...Each scent captures an unexpected moment of a journey and recalls the magic of losing oneself in adventure. WHEN EAST MEETS WEST “He arrived in the fabled city, passing through the storied gates of the Grand Bazaar just as the markets began to stir. Entering the passageways of the Sandal Bedesten, he paused under one of the thirty soaring domes to marvel at the scene unfolding before him. As talkative traders shared stories over diminutive cups of muddy coffee, merchants artfully arranged their treasures while humming long-forgotten melodies. Wandering in awe through the kaleidoscopic blur of vivid textiles, thick leathers, exotic wood crafts, and vibrant spices, he smiled, pleased to accept his small role in a dazzling drama that has played for centuries.” A blend of leathers, exotic woods and vibrant spices. Olfactive Family: Oriental – Woody with a touch of leather Fragrance Notes Top: Cardamom, Coriander, Black Pepper Heart: Nutmeg, Saffron, Cedar Base: Leather, Ambrette Size: 5.5"Online Inquiries: NMS21_HFHWAStore Inquiries: #401224659485About L'Objet: Elad Yifrach, a former interior designer, introduced L'Objet in 2004. With a collection that blends ancient techniques with a modern sensibility, L'Objet features beautiful dinnerware, table linens, serveware, and accessories that are carefully handmade by European and Asian master craftsmen. The L'Objet collection also includes accents for the home, including frames, candles, and desk accessories, many of which are crafted from 24-karat gold, platinum, and other fine materials.
From aromatic garam masala to fiery red chili powder, discover the rich and diverse world of Indian spices with our comprehensive guide.
Submerge into the gentle, tranquil embrace of Edens Garden Catnip essential oil, a unique botanical treasure cherished for its soothing wellness properties and often infused into herbal teas for luxurious indulgence. This perennial essence, native to Europe and flourishing across North America, offers more than just a feline allure; it's an aromatic passport to serenity and repose for us humans, too. When you breathe in the subtle, herbaceous scent of Catnip essential oil through your diffuser, you're not just enjoying a delightful aroma—you're partaking in a tradition steeped in nature's own remedy. But it's not just about relaxation. The main component, terpenoid nepetalactone, obtained through steam distillation, doubles as a modestly effective deterrent against pesky mosquitoes and flies, proving that nature's gifts are as practical as they are pleasant. And if you're seeking a more personal touch of tranquility, combine Catnip essential oil with a carrier oil to create a homemade skin soother, perfect for bringing calm to your day or prepping for a restful night. We know our furry feline friends are drawn to the charm of Catnip, but due to its potent nature, we advise enjoying this oil away from your whiskered companions. Dive into the naturally nurturing essence of Catnip and let Edens Garden guide you to a haven of calm and protection.
Let the crisp, rejuvenating scent of Fir Around The World essential oil by Edens Garden be your aromatic passport to the world's most awe-inspiring forests. Each drop is a blend of select Firs from Austria, New Zealand, Canada, South Korea, and Russia, offering a fresh, woodsy aroma that feels like a deep breath of wilderness air. Known for supporting respiratory health and providing natural relief from pain and inflammation, this oil is a testament to nature's healing powers. As you diffuse this oil, imagine yourself on a serene hike through verdant landscapes, with each inhale bringing wellness and each exhale releasing discomfort. Incorporating the therapeutic benefits of this globally sourced Fir oil into your daily routine is both simple and delightful. Dilute it and add a few drops to a warm bath for an enveloping forest soak that soothes sore muscles and calms the mind. Or create a homemade salve with beeswax and shea butter to naturally ease aches and enhance skin vitality. Remember, this oil isn't just a treat for the senses; it's a step towards a more holistic approach to wellbeing. At Edens Garden, we're committed to delivering not just high-quality, affordable essential oils, but also the joy of experiencing global natural beauty from the comfort of your home. Trust in the pure, potent power of Fir Around The World essential oil to elevate your health and your spirit. Ready to breathe in the essence of the great outdoors and transform your wellness routine? Let the journey begin with just a click – the majestic forests await.
Step into your own wild world with Black Sea, a captivating scent that captures the power of the elements. Like a storm building on the horizon before unleashing powerful waves of blossoms and herbs, this is a coruscating, striking perfume that will embolden and inspire you to explore the untouched places that life has to offer. Let your fear turn into freedom and feel like you can brave anything with this strong, aromatic scent. Make Black Sea your passport for a journey of wild discovery. Top notes: Bergamot, Sardinian Myrtle, Salt, Ozonic Notes, Watery Notes. Middle notes: Orange Blossom, Cyprus Black Salt, Ylang-Ylang, Sea Notes. Base notes: Algae, White Musk, Patchouli, Oakmoss, Ambergris. Extrait de Parfum Made in Italy
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Dairy-Free Substitute - A rich source of MCT fats. It may also help with weight loss and is a good source of vitamins and minerals. Culinary Coconut Milk - Our unsweetened coconut milk is the perfect option for your culinary needs. Use as a coconut milk creamer in your coffee, to make ice cream, or add to smoothies and curries. Full Cream Texture - Thai Coco's Coconut Milk has a delicious tropical flavor and thick texture. It has no added preservatives or binders, this means it separates naturally. So shake before opening! Only The Best - Our Thai coconut milk is non-GMO project certified, vegan friendly and gluten-free. There are no added preservatives or metabisulfites. Perfect for Keto and dairy-free diets. Sustainably Farmed - We are committed to bringing you the best quality products that are naturally grown, without pesticides, and are ethically sourced in Thailand, without the use of animals.
Our Culinary Herb Seed Collection - a carefully curated assortment of 5 premium herb seed packs, designed to elevate your culinary creations to new heights. This collection is your passport to a world of fresh, aromatic flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Our herb seeds are proudly Non-GMO, ensuring that you're growing your herbs the natural way, free from genetically modified organisms. We believe in the power of pure, unadulterated flavors, and this commitment to quality shines through in every seed we offer. Inside this thoughtfully assembled collection, you'll find a diverse array of herbs that are indispensable in the kitchen: Dill: This aromatic herb with its delicate, feathery leaves imparts a unique flavor profile to pickles, salads, and seafood dishes. Fresh dill elevates your cooking to a whole new level. Cilantro: Known for its bright and zesty flavor, cilantro is a staple in Mexican, Indian, and Thai cuisines. Add it to salsas, curries, and soups for an instant burst of freshness. Basil: With its sweet, peppery aroma, basil is a classic herb that enhances the taste of pasta sauces, pestos, and Caprese salads. It's a must-have in any herb garden. Chive: These slender, onion-flavored shoots are perfect for garnishing a variety of dishes. Their mild, allium-like taste complements potatoes, eggs, and creamy dips. Sage: The earthy, slightly peppery flavor of sage lends itself beautifully to poultry and stuffing. Its aromatic leaves are also excellent for infusing butter or oil. Our Culinary Herb Seed Collection is more than just a set of seeds; it's an invitation to explore the world of fresh, homegrown herbs and create culinary masterpieces right in your own kitchen. It's also a thoughtful and meaningful gift for someone you love. Enjoy gardening! Enjoy gardening!
