Patricia Walker, founder of Farm to Skin. (Credit: Courtesy of Farm to Skin)
She’s Harnessing the Power of Plants to Nurture Skin
Patricia Walker uses ingredients plucked from her homestead to craft the cleaners, toners and moisturizers that make up her skincare line, Farm to Skin.
When Patricia Walker was diagnosed with a thyroid disease in 2004, she became hyper-aware of the ingredients in the skincare products she used. Walker started to learn about aromatherapy and plant-based nutrition at the same time, ultimately earning certifications in both fields. This led her to launch her skincare line, Farm to Skin, in 2012. The Eustis, Florida-based founder’s company is headquartered on a 600-acre family farmstead, where many of the ingredients in her toners, moisturizers and cleansers are grown, harvested and hand-poured. Walker’s business is truly a family affair – her four children and sisters are all involved in the making of Farm to Skin products, and they collaborate on naming each one. Today, Walker is focused on expanding both her product line and customer base, while also cultivating relationships with fellow farmers to source more all-natural ingredients.
Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.
Tell us about your biggest success so far.
Our customers. We have more than 2,100 five-star reviews from Farm to Skin customers who say they now have beautiful, healthy skin. That’s why we do what we do!
What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?
Finding quality suppliers and partners, especially as we grow. Since we want to use only the best ingredients in our skincare formulas, we seek to work with farmers who are just as passionate about growing the best plant materials. It takes years to develop these relationships.
What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs?
Surround yourself with encouraging people. My support system has cheered me on every step of the way. Also, I believe in my product – and when you love and believe in what you are creating, it never feels like work. We all have hard days though, and having that support system and belief to push you through the tough times is critical.
How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?
Nothing makes me happier than receiving reviews from customers who have experienced dramatic results from using Farm to Skin products. They are the reason I do what I do, and why I continue to experiment and create products that really make a difference.
What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?
“Dancing Queen” by ABBA.
Who is your most important role model?
My mom. She raised six kids – an experience that comes with an unlimited supply of chaos, but she always handled everything with grace and a smile. Even when her plate was full, she always made herself available. She had the most wonderful way of seeing the best in people.
Instagram: @farmtoskin
Facebook: @farmtoskin
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