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

Alright, Jacqueline thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to go back in time and hear the story of how you came up with the name of your brand?

The name ‘The Birch Branch’ came about after I had a Nordic Spa experience one summer. One of the practices that struck me was the tradition of using a birch branch to gently hit your back and limbs (Pun intended). Yes, it sounds silly, but it is good for your circulation! The birch tree also has meaningful representation in Celtic cultures. It represents the awakening of new life, as it is the first tree to leaf in the spring and can be interpreted as a sign of new beginnings. When I looked at it alongside my company, I felt the meaning of the birch tree embodied The Birch Branch’s mission of encouraging people to start a new chapter of self-care for themselves.

Jacqueline, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hello all! My name is Jacqueline Mulders, and I am the owner of The Birch Branch, an online shop where I sell handmade soap and bath products. Being born a maker, I knew I wanted my life to be full of creativity and to share what I make with others. During 2020 I realized that taking care of my mental health was just as crucial as eating well and getting physical exercise. I found that adding small rituals to my life elevated the mundane tasks, such as using shower steamers after a tough day at work or lighting a scented candle while at my desk. Creating peaceful environments that made daily life so much cozier. I created The Birch Branch to encourage others to treat themselves in those small moments and to highlight the idea that self-care is not selfish.

Okay – so how did you figure out the manufacturing part? Did you have prior experience?

While watching a bath bomb fizz in the tub a few years ago, I thought to myself ‘I wonder if I can make this…’ . I immediately began to research about ingredients. I bought my first kit from Brambleberry and was instantly hooked. What started with bath bombs has now grown into shower steamers, bath salts, and soap. I still enjoy exploring new products and can’t wait to see what is next for The Birch Branch.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

The Birch Branch is currently a team of one. I am the owner, accountant, social media manager, photographer, product maker, customer service representative, etc. These were all things that made me nervous to start my own business and is a lot to learn all at once. I will be honest, sometimes these areas can still be a little daunting. The best advice I would give anyone looking to start a small business is don’t let these things hold you back. You can always learn them or hire someone to help you navigate it. I also reached out to small business owners I’d purchased from in my hometown and received some great advice when starting – there are resources out there. The second-best advice is to give yourself some grace! It’s only natural to encounter failure in one form or another and to learn as you go. Don’t be shy about celebrating your wins either. A first sale or a repeat customer are milestones worth celebrating!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://thebirchbranchllc.etsy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebirchbranch/

Image Credits
Personal Photo credit: Angela Sue Photography (https://www.instagram.com/angelasuephotography/)