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Meet Elizabeth Sweepe of Ollie Oils in East Valley

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Today we’d like to introduce you to Elizabeth Sweepe.

Elizabeth, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I had just had my 3rd baby when I remember reading an article about candles and the toxicity of them. At this point I burned candles like they were nothing and always had a collection of the must have scents. I started to do some more research and couldn’t believe how much information was out there. I decided “no more candles!” and started looking into alternatives. I quickly found essential oils and decided to run out to the store that night to pick up some along with my very first diffuser. When I got home I followed all the directions and found they were omitting almost zero smell. I couldn’t figure out what I was doing wrong and went back to do more research. I learned that not all essential oils are equal. There are many companies out there who aren’t selling the real deal, and people think they are buying one thing when they are getting something different. This drove me into a worm hole of research, calling different oil companies and wanting to find out the truth. When I found Young Living I knew it was instantly different. They own all of their farms and oversee the entire process so you can be sure exactly what you are buying. I quickly ordered a starter kit (with no intention of ever making a business out of it) and off I went. I started looking more clearly into all the products we were using in our home and with our babies. I discovered green washing and how so many of these products I used day in and day out were possibly causing lots of unseen problems inside. I knew that I needed to start changing our ways and little by little we have been able to eliminate all of the toxic and unknown chemicals out of our house, and only use pure, safe alternatives made from plants.

During this time I was a stay at home mom who didn’t ever see this as a “business.” I shared with a couple of other mom friends what I was doing and learning, and how excited I was to be making all these changes for my family. I couldn’t believe when they all wanted to jump on board and do it with me. I was teaching people about something I was so passionate about, and doing the business without even knowing. I decided to jump in head first and do it! What did I have to lose? I didn’t realize that as a stay at home mom I was longing for more purpose and connections. Being able to support my family while working from home, and just teaching people about something that I care so much about has been the biggest blessing and surprise. A year into creating my business and I have been able to help so many families just like us, share my knowledge and vision with so many people, and create some of the most amazing relationships. And to think that this all started with some candles.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Like every business, there have been ups and downs. I didn’t start with a large network of people I knew. I’m not a blogger or “influencer,” I’m just a mom who was insanely passionate about something. I have received lots of no’s and judgment about starting this business, but it has pushed me to learn more about myself and challenge myself. Along the way, I have learned that every single person is an influencer. You don’t need thousands of followers and a huge audience to make a difference. Just start with one person. Step outside your comfort zone and just be you. People can tell when you are not being real or authentic. You will always be judged for something, so why not make it something you love.

Please tell us about your business.
I run an essential oils business through Young Living. I am so proud of the company and the people I work with. We are making a difference in people’s lives and health. There is so much more than just essential oils, we offer everything from makeup to cleaners to vitamins. I love showing others how they can ditch and switch toxic products in their homes, while still living within a budget. I always love a good DIY or money saving hack! What sets us apart for others is how much we care about the families we are helping. I never want people to invest their hard earned money into essential oils and feel lost or alone. Teaching people about the oils and how to use them is a huge part of this business. I always tell people that we are there for the whole journey. This is much more than just a paycheck, its a relationship and a lifestyle.

Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
Growing up holidays were always my most favorite time of year. My family would always go all out and make it a huge celebration. We would have traditions and food, and everyone would be together. Even as I grew up and people moved away all of these traditions still lived on. Being able to pass those along to my kids and show them this same excitement and magic has been one of my favorite parts of motherhood. It was a big part of my childhood that I will never forget.

Pricing:

  • Starter kits range from $35 – $210

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