Rising Stars: Meet Melissa Clifford of Avon Lake

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Clifford.

Hi Melissa, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started Element LABS out of a personal desire to live a healthier lifestyle. I began experimenting with natural ingredients to create my own personal care products, like deodorant and body scrubs. When I ran out of my homemade deodorant and tried a popular store-bought alternative, I was disappointed. It didn’t hold up to my own formulations. That’s when I realized I might be onto something special. As friends, family, and even friends of friends, started asking me to make products for them, I knew I had a business idea. I opened Element LABS in 2016 with a mission to create top-quality, natural products that make every customer feel like royalty. Since then, we’ve grown steadily, thanks to loyal customers and the power of word-of-mouth referrals.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Building Element LABS hasn’t been without its challenges. It’s a journey marked by resilience and determination. From the early days it was limited funding as a start up. We were finalists in a business plan competition, this enabled us to build a relationship with the ECDI as well as the SBDC. Through these organizations we received valuable education and were were able to obtain access to capital through micro loans. The unexpected challenges of the pandemic were uncharted territory that proved we were good at pivoting. We expanded to a larger retail space in 2019, shortly after, the pandemic was taking a toll on our communities. I’ve learned to navigate uncertainty. Supply chain disruptions and inflation tested our resolve, but we found ways to adapt. A significant challenge arose when a neighboring implosion damaged our storefront the busiest week of the year for us. Fortunately, the developers swiftly came to our aid to clean and repair our space. It took about 3 months to complete. The incident unexpectedly brought our community closer to us, generating valuable publicity and support that ultimately encouraged us and fueled our growth. Through these experiences, I’ve gained valuable insights into the importance of perseverance and community in business.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am the founder, creative director and formulator at Element LABS, a bath and body brand that specializes in natural self care products. Our mission is to nourish your skin and inspire the spirit. For me designing formulas, bringing together natural ingredients to create effective products that feel luxurious is an art form in itself. Choosing colors, designing our beautiful yet functional soaps is another opportunity for creative expression. We’re known for our commitment to using high-quality, natural ingredients and creating products with luxury, wellness, and sustainability at the forefront.

I’m most proud of building a brand that stands on a foundation of doing the very best for our planet, the people we serve, and the communities we live in. All in a way that resonates with people and makes a positive impact on their lives. Seeing customers come back and share their love for our products is incredibly fulfilling.

What sets us apart is our commitment to exceptional customer service and high-quality products. We strive to make every customer feel like royalty, whether they’re shopping in-store or online. We offer personalized services like complimentary hand treatments, customized gift baskets, and gift wrapping – things you won’t find at big-box stores. Our products are made with clean, natural ingredients, with a focus on sustainability and gentleness to the skin. We’re dedicated to making a positive impact in our community and providing a unique experience that keeps customers coming back.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
One of my favorite quotes,” There is no such thing as balance, only radical prioritization.”

If I had to give advice to someone just starting out, I’d say it’s a slow, hard climb. Be prepared for the unexpected. Costs will likely be higher than you anticipate, and timelines will probably be longer than you think. However, despite those challenges, it’s essential to take the leap and get started. Its unknown what lies ahead so you plan and prepare for what-ifs, but don’t let it hold you back from pursuing your vision. There is a delicate balance between being prepared and not. You can’t allow yourself to be intimidated.
As a business owner and a creative I’ve learned that being a perfectionist or control freak can be a double-edged sword. Attention to detail and high standards can drive quality and excellence, but when taken to an extreme, it can hinder growth and innovation. I’ve had to learn to let go of some control and trust the process, allowing our brand to evolve and take on its own personality. When you’re too focused on perfection, it can slow down decision-making and stifle creativity, but embracing imperfections and uncertainties can open yourself up to new ideas and approaches that might not have emerged otherwise. Finding that sweet spot between quality control and creative freedom has been key to our success.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://elementlabsbathandbody.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4elementlabs
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16kMka45WN/