Essentially Natural was founded in 2014 by cousins Jan and Vicki. Our aim was to put ourselves back in charge of what we were putting in and on our bodies, and in turn back in to the environment.
We strove to provide a platform for the wonderful products we discovered. We hoped to help every one of us to live life as naturally as possible.
5 years later, the Essentially Natural family has - happily - swelled substantially. Our goal remains the same however and we're still striving to do to simply that: to offer you the best in natural, raw, honest ingredients, materials, equipment and packaging and body and Earth-friendly products.
We care about what the labels say not only for our own well-being but that of our environment. For us, as you, the terms ‘natural’, ‘organic’, ‘zero-waste', 'earth friendly’, ‘do-it-yourself’ are not just catchphrases, but about harnessing that which is pure and natural, non-toxic, harm-free: that which is simply good, and that can safely be returned to the earth.
We:
Support local community initiatives and ethical, fair trade practices.
Source all our products in South Africa - to us, being proudly South African means supporting local industry.
Believe in sharing information and constantly learning.
Believe in honesty and transparency in our relationships with our customers.
We only sell products we use and believe in ourselves.
Passionate natural-life–wannabe.
"1 November 2012, my husband and best friend, Steph and Brad’s Dad, died of stomach cancer. His diagnosis six months prior catapulted me onto a journey of trying to help him and to protect my family from this dreadful disease.
The only thing I know for sure, years later, is that cancer is UNnatural. I firmly believe that the toxic brew of chemicals we put in our food, on our bodies and in our homes, has become a friend to illness. I am officially un-friending!
I do promise to share everything I learn on my journey – I hope you’ll join me."
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jan@essentiallynatural.co.za
Passionate about the incredibly beautiful Pale Blue Dot that we get to call home, and contributing positively to its well-being.
Fueled by the company of dogs, books, friends, family, and wine.
"I'm so proud of Essentially Natural and the team and ethos behind it. And since you're here, I hope that you'll find something that reflects a shared value, passion or interest. I hope that here you'll find the inspiration to live in truth and kindness, to yourself and our planet."
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vicki@essentiallynatural.co.za
Vicki’s little sis, lifelong learner, enthusiastic DIY-er, conscious content creator and blogger and trying to be as natural and nontoxic as possible!
Passionate about 100% natural skincare, natural remedies and green beauty.
"I enjoy creating, whether it be in the form of writing a blog or whipping up a DIY something made from natural ingredients.
I love nature, and all things sustainable, harmless, chemical-free and non-polluting.
I have an undergrad degree in geology and geography, a PGCE and have recently completed my BSc Honours in energy studies."
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juliette@essentiallynatural.co.za
Our talented and highly capable General Manager, Wayne, is an innovator who has heaps of specialist skills and abilities as well as extensive experience in general retail, including stock purchasing and merchandising, inventory management systems, network systems and IT.
With his many years of practical, hands-on experience at management level and his unique knowledge and skill set, he’s responsible for keeping the wheels turning smoothly at Essentially Natural.
We call him Mr Fix-It :)
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wayne@essentiallynatural.co.za
Shinga joined the Essentially Natural family in the 3rd quarter of 2016 and since that day - every day - we have given thanks for that. We all variously have 'fancy job titles' but we also know who's really 'boss', and just how blessed we are to have her.
Shinga's right hand, Yollanda, is responsible for ensuring every parcel is lovingly checked before it leaves our warehouse. Found a little gift or two in your box? That's the work of 'Santa Yol'.
@Shopify
Paper shredding, recycling, french kisses, 24/7 support. It's a dog's life.
