I am Christie McGann, the creator of The Bod Society which is an eco friendly, natural, vegan & cruelty free certified skincare brand that focuses on compostable/biodegradable and sustainable packaging. A heart-led brand that was created with intention and a little bit of cheekiness.
When did you start your business?
I started my business in February 2018
What was the inspiration behind starting this business?
I had been in the beauty industry since I was 16, owned salons and worked with a lot of brands but never found one that aligned with all my values. In early January 2017 my dad was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. They started intensive chemo and radiation treatment pretty much immediately. A part of the side effects of the treatments he has unbelievably itchy and sore skin. I felt like there was nothing I could do, so I started researching holistic remedies. I stumbled upon essential oils and other botanicals that had benefits that could have helped ease the irritation on my dad’s skin.
I started creating a body oil and bath soak to help soothe his skin and help reduce the inflammation and irritation and this is where the first “grace town” range began. Although I still love working and providing beauty services my dream was to always create my own natural skincare range. After many years of telling myself “it’s too hard, expensive and complicated” I finally took a leap for what might be the best thing I have ever started.
What are you most excited about in your business?
I am most excited about the evolution of our brand. How we create new products and accessories based on our own life journey and finding things we need but with a better environmental impact.
What has been the most challenging thing about starting your business?
Trying to source biodegradable and compostable packaging whilst starting out was really difficult because the minimum quantities were so high but it worked out to be the best investment and in alignment with our brand.
What advice would you give to other women thinking about starting a business?
Ignore fear- lead with your heart and passion, you’ll always attract your ideal customer when your values align and your excitement shines through.
Why did you enter the AusMumpreneur Awards?
I was nominated twice and almost didn’t enter because feelings of being unworthy kicked in BUT then I did some reflection and realised how special our journey had been and that It/I deserved some acknowledgement. I am so glad that I followed through as I met some incredible women through this experience.
What did you enjoy the most about being part of the awards?
The excitement leading up to the event, meeting incredible women and the support while being a part of the awards was so beautiful.
What surprised you most about the awards?
The level of support from other finalists and team behind the awards.
How did the awards help you in your business?
I found I had a lot of exposure from my business being reshared on the social media pages.
What advice would you give to other mums thinking about entering the awards?
Go for it! Being a mum should have an award in itself but to be running a business at the same time- That deserves some acknowledgement too!
What has been the best thing about starting your own business?
Having the flexibility to create the life I want and dream of. Allowing my creative flow to be tickled and falling in love with what I do.
What’s happening next in your business?
We are always evolving and so is our brand, we hope to bring out more eco-friendly and sustainable products in 2023 and have an abundance of more stockists join our journey.
What are your big plans for the future?
To keep expanding and growing our brand with new products, innovative packaging and a boutique store for our customers to come visit and enjoy.
What is your website and/or social media links (eg. Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram)
@thebodsociety for both facebook and instagram
