We had the good fortune of connecting with Josette Miller and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Josette, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
J. Botanicals was a culmination of several factors and experiences that came together at the right time. I’ve always been a “hustler” in the sense that I’ve tried my hand at various ventures—bartending, graphic design, even making candy. Creativity and the drive to create something unique have always been a part of who I am. My diverse experiences made me realize that I had a knack for creating things and turning them into viable products. When I started reading the ingredients on hair and body product jars, I thought, “Why can’t I make something like this, but better?” That curiosity led me to research natural ingredients, essential oils, and sustainable packaging. I wanted to create products that not only worked well but also felt luxurious and were environmentally friendly. My personal life experiences also played a huge role. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I was laid off from my job at Delta Airlines, and suddenly, I had all this time at home. Then I became a caretaker for my husband as he was diagnosed a life-altering illness. I needed an outlet to manage my emotional & mental health while also nurturing my creative side. Crafting body care & soap products were a great way to go, I then pivoted to fragrances and then candles. They all are pretty great but candles quickly became the most therapeutic for me. It allowed me to focus on self-care and the beautiful nuances of candlemaking. I soon learned I wanted and needed to share my products with others.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What Sets J. Botanicals Apart

J. Botanicals is a brand dedicated to the creation of luxurious, handmade body care, home fragrances, candles & cocktails using vegan, organic and natural materials & ingredients. What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to promoting a one of-a-kind luxury holistic experience while celebrating the innate beauty of our customers. Each product is crafted with meticulous care, designed not just to meet but to exceed the expectations of those who value high-quality, natural ingredients. Additionally, our sustainability initiatives, such as eco-friendly packaging and a focus on reducing environmental impact, reflect our dedication to preserving the planet while providing indulgent self-care experiences.

Pride and Excitement

I am incredibly proud of the community we’ve built around J. Botanicals. Hearing from customers who find solace and joy in our products, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, is profoundly rewarding. The success of our Candles & Cocktails Makers Experiences, which bring people together to fellowship, create and connect, is another highlight that fills me with excitement. These experiences not only enhance our brand’s offerings but also foster a sense of community and creativity.

The Journey

The journey to where J. Botanicals stands today has been anything but easy. It started with a passion for creating and a desire to offer something unique in the market. Initially, it involved countless hours of research, experimentation, and learning. From understanding the nuances of natural ingredients to perfecting the art of candle making, each step was a learning curve. The challenges are many, from securing funding to balancing the demands of business and personal life.

Overcoming Challenges

Overcoming these challenges required resilience and adaptability. One of our significant hurdles is securing funding, which we continuously address by exploring various avenues, including grants, loans, incubators, cohorts and partnerships. Imposter syndrome is another challenge, often questioning my brand worth and capabilities. However, the support from my community and the positive feedback from customers helped me push through these doubts. Enhancing customer engagement through our personalized experiences and community-building initiatives also plays a crucial role in our growth.

Lessons Learned

The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is the importance of perseverance and staying true to one’s vision. Building a business is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires consistent effort, a willingness to learn and adapt, and a genuine passion for what you do. Embracing feedback, both positive and negative, has been instrumental in refining our products and services.

What the World Should Know

J. Botanicals is more than just a business; it’s a labor of love and a testament to the power of passion and dedication. Our mission is to bring a sense of calm, joy, and rejuvenation to people’s lives through our meticulously crafted products and experiences. I believe in the power of natural beauty and wellness, and I am committed to making a positive impact on both our customers and the environment.

Thank you for your interest in J. Botanicals. I am excited about the future and look forward to continuing my journey of growth and innovation.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Best Friend’s Week-Long Visit Itinerary in Atlanta, GA

Day 1: Welcome and Downtown Exploration

– Morning: Arrive and settle in.
– Lunch: Brunch at South City Kitchen – Southern cuisine in a chic setting.
– Afternoon: Settle in and get ready for dinner.
– Evening: Dinner at Ray’s in the City – Fresh seafood and a great downtown atmosphere.
– Night: Drinks at SkyLounge – Rooftop bar with stunning views of the city skyline.

Day 2: Arts and History

– Morning: Breakfast at Highland Bakery – Known for its hearty Southern breakfasts.
– Mid-Morning: Explore The High Museum of Art – Impressive collections of classic and contemporary art.
– Lunch: Bartaco – Delicious tacos & margaritas in a relaxed environment.
– Afternoon: Visit The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park – Includes his birth home, church, and memorial.
– Evening: Dinner at Marcus Bar & Grille – A funky & vibrant new restaurant.
– Night: Live music at St. James Live– Great setting and talented performers.

Day 3: Shopping and Sightseeing

– Morning: Breakfast at The Flying Biscuit Café – Famous for their biscuits and Southern breakfast staples.
– Mid-Morning: Shopping in Ponce City Market – Boutiques, eateries, and the rooftop amusement park.
– Lunch: Bellina Alimentari in Ponce City Market – Fresh, Italian-inspired dishes.
– Afternoon: Visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden – Relaxing walk and beautiful gardens.
– Evening: Dinner at Varuni Napoli – Fresh wood-fire pizza in Midtown.
– Night: Cocktails at The Clermont Lounge – Atlanta’s oldest strip club, known for its quirky and fun atmosphere.

Day 4: Exploration

– Morning: Breakfast at Home Grown GA – Homey diner with a farm-to-table approach.
– Mid-Morning: Visit The Georgia Aquarium – One of the largest aquariums in the world.
– Lunch: Anh’s Kitchen – Vietnamese cuisine.
– Afternoon: Tour – The High Museum of Art – Newest Exhibition
– Evening: Dinner at STK Steakhouse – Upscale dining with famed NY-based steakhouse.
– Night: Drinks at Ticonderoga Club in Krog Street Market – Creative cocktails in a lively setting.

Day 5: Relaxation

– Morning: Light Breakfast at Park 75 at The Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta – American fare
– Mid-Morning: Spa – The Spa at Four Seasons Atlanta. Massage therapy & skin treatments
– Lunch: Ela – Virginia Highlands – Enjoy Mediterranean cuisine.
– Afternoon: Visit The Fernbank Museum of Natural History – Exhibits and an IMAX theater.
– Evening: Dinner at Aria – Elegant dining with an inventive menu.
– Night: Nightlife in Buckhead – Explore upscale bars and clubs like Whiskey Blue.

Day 6: Day Trip and Excursions

– Morning: Drive to Dawsonville, GA – North Georgia Premium Outlets – Retail therapy.
– Lunch: Kona Grill – Alpharetta – New American fare/Sushi cuisine.
– Afternoon: Tubing down the Chattahoochee River or exploring local shops.
– Evening: Return to Atlanta, dinner at Staplehouse – Innovative and critically acclaimed dining.
– Night: Relax with a movie at Plaza Theatre – Historic cinema with a unique atmosphere.

Day 7: Farewell and Memories

– Breakfast: Brunch at West Egg Café – Popular spot with a great breakfast menu.
– Mid-Morning: Visit The Atlanta BeltLine – Walk, bike, or scooter around this transformative urban redevelopment.
– Lunch: Krog Street Market – Food hall with a variety of options.
– Afternoon: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing – Visit the Fox Theatre or stroll through Atlantic Station.
– Evening: Dinner at Gunshow – Unique dining experience with a rotating menu.
– Night: Drinks at The Lawrence – Wrap up the trip with a toast to an unforgettable week.

Exciting People and Places

– Meet local chefs at Ponce City Market or Krog Street Market.
– Engage with historians at The Atlanta History Center.
– Enjoy the vibrant energy and street art of the BeltLine.

This itinerary offers a blend of culture, relaxation, shopping, cuisine, history, and adventure, ensuring a memorable visit to Atlanta, GA.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
To my great partner who fights his own battles to just live each day to the fullest. I love & appreciate you for being my voice of reason, my best friend and my peace. Thank you for all you do for us and I love you to the moon and back baby.

Website: https://www.jbotanicals.com

Instagram: @j.botanicals1

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-botanicals-04665a290

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/j.botanicals1

Other: Elevated Elixirs: Crafted Cocktails Ebook
https://stan.store/JosettetheJillofAll/p/welcome-to-elevated-elixirs-crafted-cocktails

Image Credits
N/A

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