Feb 17, 2021
Owners
Joe and Julie Riggins
Business Contact Number
(913) 972-5491
Business Address
204 S Main Street
Ottawa, Kansas 66067
What is your primary business activity?
Bath and Body Manufacturer
How many employees do you have including yourself?
3
How long have you been in business?
We left the corporate world in 2007 to open our first business. In 2013 we moved to rural Kansas and began a our quest to make goat milk soap, lotion and candles.
What is your background?
We both have a strong back ground in chemistry and science. We had to learn goat husbandry so that we could properly care for our goats, who provide the milk for our products.
What sets your business apart from your competitors?
We are a family of 10, and everyone works together to make our dream of entrepreneurship happen. We milk our goats daily and use that milk in our products.
How is your business involved in your community?
We hold an annual Thanksgiving Community Dinner, that is free of charge. We also are deeply involved in providing Blessing Boxes throughout Ottawa and Franklin County to provide food and hygiene products for those in need. Julie is heavily involved in the Ottawa Main Street program and Kiwanis.
What is your business philosophy/mission statement?
We don’t do things the easy way, we do them the right way.
Why should your business be included in the minority & women business spotlight?
We are a black family and woman-led.
What do you like about doing business in Kansas?
People are friendly.
What inspired you to start your business?
7 out of 8 of our children had skin issues, and we decided to formulate products to alleviate those problems.
What was the biggest “win” in your business’ history?
We feel that every day is a win. We get to do what we love, spend time with our family, and raise goats. If we had to pick one event, it would be filming a commercial for Phillips 66 (pictured on the left).
What’s one valuable lesson you’ve learned that you would share with other business owners?
Never take criticism from customers personal, and always keep a sense of humor.
Tell us an interesting and fun fact about your business.
We sometimes bring a goat to the store for events.
