Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Layne.
Hi Stephanie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I’ve been studying and practicing herbalism for over a decade. It began with a desire to take control over my own health but then blossomed into teaching and creating health support for others. I created Thistle Bee Tea Co. not only to help others connect with nature and support their own health but also to assist in connecting others with their own ancestral knowledge.
Plants as food and medicine spans every culture. Plants were here long before us and have provided for all of our ancestors for centuries. I feel that it is time for us to give back, which is why Thistle Bee Tea Co. is dedicated to regenerating roots through ancestral-inspired herbal creations and guidance.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road to success is full of potholes! Haha! There is always an obstacle down the road, but the key is to learn how to work through them…just like anything else.
I try to grow as many of the plants I work with as possible. Sometimes things get eaten by critters on the farm, or my seeds don’t do as well one year, and I have to source certain herbs. During Covid, it was sometimes difficult to get my hands on sustainable jars and containers for my salves and bath salts. This year has been a doozy, and I had to cancel all of my workshops and classes for 2022, but I’m finding my footing again and will offer more this upcoming season.
There will always be challenges. You just have to get creative, power through, and be honest with yourself and others about what you can do.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Many people offer herbal goods and services, but they don’t always offer the spirit and ancestral knowledge behind their offerings. Thistle Bee’s mission is to provide knowledge that will inspire curiosity and wonder about the natural world and the ways and reasons why our ancestors worked the land.
What are your plans for the future?
I am currently in a stage of a “re-branding” of sorts. Instead of focusing in on the physical items, I’m offering; I’m trying to focus Thistle Bee’s energy on the reasons why my offerings are important. Yes, I offer high-quality herbal creations from my own farm and garden, but you can do it too… AND you can learn more about your personal heritage through working with these plants! How cool is that?!
Pricing:
- Workshops – $25 +
- Teas, Tinctures, Salves, etc…- depends on plants needed
Contact Info:
- Website: www.thistlebeetea.com
- Instagram: @thistlebeetea
