We’re so excited to welcome yet another new business to the Woodlawn Community! Thrive Wellness Lounge is a plant-based health and wellness store in the heart of Woodlawn owned by Tish Fletcher (a veteran Woodlawn Street Market vendor – whoop whoop)! You can swing by and check out Woodlawn’s newest addition on Tuesday – Saturday from 11:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. It’s always a good time to support a female, black-owned local business! We talked to Tish a little bit more about her journey to opening her very own brick and mortar store. Keep reading to learn more!
What inspired you to start your business?
Severe fibroid pain sent me to the ER one day. That night I tried CBD for the first time and it changed my life. I had heard of it, but didn’t try it because I thought it was illegal and would make me high. So I started researching, buying more products, making products and sharing. From there I wanted to address the stigma surrounding CBD and cannabis and bridge the gap with education.
How did WSM and Magic City Match help you get to where you are today?
WSM was the first marketplace that I applied to participate in. I was later invited to try the retail experience and as I volunteered there I realized people had lots of questions. Being a consultant was better than assuming a customer could go to my website and make the best decision. MCM helped me create a solid business plan and other foundational skills. Being one of the recipients of $25k, allowed me to open sooner with a greater variety of inventory and support services.
Why did you choose to open your business in Woodlawn?
There’s a sense of community and family. From Robert, Jason, Cliff, Rebecca, Duquette and many others – I feel supported and comfortable asking for help and advice. Also, as a woman of faith, I truly believe that I am there for “such a time as this”. There’s a buzz in the area and I feel uniquely positioned and honored to be there.
What has been your favorite part about having your business in Woodlawn?
It’s a dream come true. Once I realized that having a retail space would be the best option to serve more people, I wanted the exact space that I’m in. Not only that, knowing that a visionary and business woman of Pinky Cole’s (owner of Slutty Vegan) caliber chose Woodlawn as well – well – it puts me in great company.
What products/services do you offer?
I offer CBD infused products, detox teas, vitamins and supplements. I also offer coaching support for my 15 Day Detox Challenge.
What’s the next step you’d like to take in order to grow your business?
I would like to start hosting classes to educate the community on the benefits of CBD, detoxing and incorporating a healthy active lifestyle. I want to build an ecosystem of health and wellness while partnering with other makers and professionals.
Can you share a quick pitch to help get customers through the door?
Thrive Wellness Lounge is a combination of your favorite aunt’s house and your favorite wellness store. I’ve created an environment that’s intentionally comfortable so that you can come in, find respite and share your problems while I share some solutions. Whether you want to detox, get more energy, lose a few pounds or explore CBD options for pain relief and sleep, I have something for you and even CBD-infused pet treats for your fur baby.
If you could give advice to aspiring business owners, what would it be?
Start a business that you’re passionate about and build a support system. I’ve been in sales before, but nothing I ever sold “changed my life” the way that CBD and detoxing has done. So when business gets hard, I just dig in and keep going because it’s about helping others. I believe that I am in alignment with my assignment. Therefore, nothing can get in the way of my success. And success for me, is impact. I am here to make an impact on people’s daily lives. So the more I focus on service to many, it will lead to greatness.
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