Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Maria Vashakidze. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Maria , appreciate you joining us today. Being a business owner can be really hard sometimes. It’s rewarding, but most business owners we’ve spoken sometimes think about what it would have been like to have had a regular job instead. Have you ever wondered that yourself? Maybe you can talk to us about a time when you felt this way?

I am so stoked to be a small business owner and wouldn’t have it any other way. This community absolutely lights me up, and my heart is full being able to help folks connect with their pleasure and their self care.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Maria Vashakidze and I am the founder of Seagrape Apothecary, a magical shop and community space with a flagship store in Portland, OR. Just a short while ago I couldn’t even remember what stirred desire in my belly so I set out to find the juicy parts of life I was missing. The disconnect from my own pleasure caused a ripple effect throughout my life that affected my art practice, relationships, creative spark, and genuine rest. Seagrape pulled me from this stagnant place and infused my life and practice with simple pleasures, luscious experiences, and most importantly the space I needed to grow. Bringing attention and intention back to pleasure has opened space for me to feel expansive, joyful, and creative again. My goal in creating Seagrape is to foster a similar experience for the community; create a space that stokes one’s inner fire, helps you find and stand in your personal power and magic.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I think all small business owners can relate to the challenges and complications that the pandemic brought. At the time we were primarily operating in person out of our flagship location. Some changes had to be made in order to continue connecting with folks, and our digital presence has grown stronger as a result.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Our social media engagement is rooted in authenticity. The content we create, the tidbits of magic we share, all comes from real humans. To folks starting out- don’t put so much pressure on yourself. Your customers want to know you and see you for the human you are.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://seagrapeapothecary.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seagrapeapothecary/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seagrapeapothecary
• Other: Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/seagrapeapothecary/