Today we’d like to introduce you to AnnMarie Andaluz.
AnnMarie, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Initially, I started PHreshBox for my personal use. I was looking for a natural feminine wash that would not throw off my PH or cause irritation to my vagina. After trying several “Natural” feminine wash, I finally decided that I was going to create my own because existing products were not working for me. I realized that in order to keep this product 100% natural, it would not be possible to make it sudsy or foamy to get a good lather. I was aware that in order to get the feminine wash I wanted to create for myself to lather, I would have to add synthetic ingredients. However, that did not sit well with me. I wanted only natural ingredients on my box, not chemicals!
I began using PHreshBox daily and gave some samples to my family and close friends. In addition to the great feedback they all gave me, I also noticed I was no longer having issues with my PH being imbalanced; which can lead to several other issues, such as yeast infections, BV (bacterial vaginosis), etc. I was and still am overjoyed that PHreshBox is actually working! At that point, I decided to make it a business, but also most importantly I knew it was my responsibility to teach everything that I had learned.
It dawns on me that the conversation of intimate body parts was a bit taboo. Although, the importance of a well balanced genital hygiene would play an important role to pursue the culture behind PHreshBox.
Following extensive communication on the topic of holistic genital care, I realized that not only should women take care of their PH, but also men should be educated on the topic as well. I then started to go to different cosmetology schools to inform both men and women on the importance of my natural products used on their skin, rather than artificial chemicals.
I have participated as a vendor in many local events, but I am most proud of the word of mouth advertisement my product has received. On top of that, my other accomplishments are that I am able to market to people in 12 different states within my first year and follow my passion to pursue an honest and beneficial business.
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?
In the beginning, it took me a very long time to come up with the perfect formula for my product. I wanted the right consistency and after several different batches, I was finally able to create PHreshBox. Another issue was to change the public perspective to non-lather genital products. In the genital area, soap is not advised to be used due to harsh chemicals such as sodium hydroxide (LYE). In addition, promoting my brand on social media has been a difficult process since most sites consider it sexual content when in reality it’s a skin and body wellness.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I specialize in organic genital-care products and known for using natural ingredients. I’m most proud of the appreciation my brand has gotten; it’s been a humbling experience. I started this business independently because I believe that I can carry out my vision the way I have always imagined. What sets me apart from other businesses is the authenticity of my brand and the devotion I bring into each product.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I had a non-traditional mindset that set me apart from the rest of my family. I’m more in tune with my body and after many years I really started to listen to her. Learning who Annmarie is has been an enlightening experience for me. I’m a very outspoken, honest, and strong-minded individual, who “believed she could; therefore she did”. My interests include being an independent businesswoman, not working for ‘The Man”. I’ve always been a hard worker, understanding that nothing worth having comes easy. “My entire life can be summed up in four-word: I hustled. I conquered”.
Pricing:
- * Daily Moisturizing Cleanser 8oz – $20.00
- * Travel Size Cleanser 4oz – $14.00
- * PHreshGents for Him Cleanser 8oz – $20.00
- * Daily Moisturizing Cleanser (Tea Tree Scent) 8 oz – $20.00
- * VagiSteam Pouch (2 Pack) – $20.00
Contact Info:
- Website: www.phreshbox.com
- Email: support@phreshbox.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phreshbox/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PHreshbox/
Image Credit:
Photographer: @nineonefourpf
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