Today, we’d like to introduce you to Krista Durant.
Hi Krista, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
My journey with It’s The Moss For Me, LLC began as a personal quest for healing. After battling Crohn’s disease for a decade, I sought a holistic approach to managing my symptoms. In early 2022, I discovered the incredible benefits of sea moss gel. Within days of incorporating it into my routine, I experienced life-changing results – reduced bloating and cramping and improved bowel regulation. It was a revelation, and I knew I had to share this newfound remedy with others.
Driven to help those suffering from gastrointestinal diseases and other ailments, I embarked on a mission to spread the word about sea moss’s healing properties. With God at the center of my vision, I delved into extensive research and experimentation to perfect my sea moss gel recipe. The response was overwhelming as I shared my creation with family and friends. Local delivery and overnight shipping options quickly turned my passion project into a thriving business, generating a couple hundred dollars in monthly revenue.
To enhance the nutritional benefits of my sea moss gel, I began infusing it with elderberry and ginger root (later incorporating bladderwrack into the lineup). This synergistic blend offered additional health benefits and extended the product’s shelf life and improved its texture compared to blending in fresh fruits. The demand for this innovative blend grew rapidly, prompting me to formalize my business by filing articles of organization with the Secretary of State and obtaining an EIN in early 2023.
As It’s The Moss For Me, LLC gained momentum, I sought to build trust within my community. Becoming accredited with the Atlanta Better Business Bureau in June 2023 was pivotal, bolstering our credibility and expanding our reach across the country as we released our first addition to our product line, Irish Moss Soap. Referrals, glowing reviews, and word-of-mouth endorsements propelled our growth, culminating in being named the Best Specialty Food/Drink by The Best of Gwinnett in January 2024.
Humbled by the recognition and grateful for the blessings that continue to flow, I remain committed to our mission of holistic healing and spreading the transformative power of sea moss to all who seek natural solutions for their well-being.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Along my journey with It’s The Moss For Me, LLC, there were undoubtedly several challenges that tested my resilience and determination. Here are some of the struggles I encountered along the way:
1. Navigating the Unknown: Venturing into the world of holistic healing and entrepreneurship was unfamiliar territory for me. I had to overcome uncertainty and self-doubt as I embarked on this new path.
2. Recipe Refinement: Perfecting the sea moss gel recipe was a process of trial and error. It took time and numerous attempts to achieve the ideal consistency and flavor profile that would resonate with customers.
3. Business Logistics: From obtaining necessary licenses to navigating tax regulations and business operations, many logistical hurdles were to overcome in establishing and running a successful enterprise.
4. Scaling Up: As demand for my products grew, I faced challenges scaling up production while maintaining product quality and consistency. Finding reliable suppliers and managing inventory became increasingly complex tasks.
5. Marketing and Branding: Building brand awareness and attracting customers in a competitive market requires strategic marketing and effective branding initiatives. It took time to refine our messaging and identify the most impactful marketing channels.
6. Financial Constraints: Like many entrepreneurs, I faced financial constraints and had to carefully manage expenses while investing in the growth of the business. Securing funding and managing cash flow were ongoing challenges.
Despite these obstacles, perseverance, passion, and a strong belief in the mission of It’s The Moss For Me, LLC kept me going. Each challenge presented an opportunity for growth and learning, ultimately contributing to the resilience and success of the business today.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a multifaceted entrepreneur passionate about holistic healing and community advocacy. At It’s The Moss For Me, LLC, I specialize in crafting and sharing high-quality sea moss gel infused with elderberry, ginger root and bladderwrack, providing natural relief and wellness support.
Beyond my role as a business owner, I am known for my dedication to serving others as a two-term PTA president, local mobile notary, and ordained minister. These diverse roles reflect my commitment to nurturing both personal and communal well-being.
What I am most proud of is the impact I’ve made through my advocacy efforts, whether it’s advocating for children’s education and welfare as a single mother and PTA president or supporting individuals in their spiritual journeys as a minister. These experiences have shaped me into a compassionate and empathetic leader dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of others but also transforming ours (my children and I) in motion.
My humble approach to entrepreneurship and holistic healing sets me apart from others. I prioritize authenticity, integrity, and genuine care for my customers and community. My journey as a mom, advocate, notary, minister, and business owner has instilled a deep sense of empathy and understanding, allowing me to connect with others meaningfully. It is this genuine connection and commitment to holistic well-being that truly sets It’s The Moss For Me, LLC apart.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
There are many ways people can work with, collaborate with, or support It’s The Moss For Me, LLC:
1. Collaborate with Local Small Businesses: I am always open to collaborating with other small businesses to create mutually beneficial partnerships. Whether through joint promotions, events, or product collaborations, working together strengthens our local community and amplifies our impact.
2. Become a Product of the Product: Believing in the mission and experiencing the benefits of our products firsthand is one of the most powerful ways to support us. By incorporating our sea moss gel into your wellness routine and sharing your positive experiences with others, you support our business and spread awareness about holistic healing.
3. Non-Financial Support: Supporting my business doesn’t always have to be financial. Leaving reviews, recommendations, and referrals helps us reach new customers and build credibility. Additionally, following our social media accounts, engaging with our content, and spreading the word about our mission contribute to our growth and success.
4. Financial Donations: Financial donations can play a crucial role in helping us grow and expand our business. Donations could support various aspects of our operations, such as:
• Investing in equipment and resources for production
• Expanding our product line to offer more options to customers
• Marketing and advertising efforts to reach a wider audience
• Training and development initiatives to enhance our team’s skills and capabilities
By supporting It’s The Moss For Me, LLC in any of these ways, you are supporting a small business and promoting holistic healing and wellness in our community. Your support helps us continue our mission of making a positive impact on the lives of others.
Pricing:
- 16oz jar (2-week supply) $35
- 32oz (2-16 oz jars, 4-week supply) $50
- Local delivery $10
- Overnight shipping ($31)
- 4oz bar of Irish Moss Soap $8
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/its_the_moss_for_me_?igsh=bHUzdzkwdTA4a3A1&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItsTheMossForMe?mibextid=dGKdO6
- Other: http://g.co/kgs/Rd3NGR
