The Biz: Feature Articles

Joseph and Laralyn RiverWind are the founders and co-owners of Native Touch, an all-natural body care company. Based in western North Carolina, Native Touch knows one thing that sets them apart from other body care companies is that they are not rebottlers. All Native Touch products are original, proprietary recipes formulated by Laralyn, an herbal biologist. Native Touch’s philosophy is inspired by the teachings of their elders, who taught them, if you can’t eat it, you shouldn’t put it on your body. Their vision for the future revolves around the ancient indigenous wisdom of basing the decisions of today on the way it will affect the next seven future generations.

We assume those who are quite persuasive are those who can “sell umbrellas in the desert.” When we think about an umbrella, we think of rain and then jump to the conclusion that if someone is able to sell something that is useless to a group of people, as with the umbrellas for desert dwellers, they must be good — right? Wrong! People who manage to convince us to buy items we don’t need may be persuasive, but they won’t hold our trust for long. On the other hand, those truly persuasive individuals who are able to sell umbrellas in the desert are people who can see our true wants and needs and either offer or repurpose a product to satisfy those desires.

The capes and ponchos trend is back and it’s hitting the younger set fast. Light, breezy and easily layered, this trend is totally wearable. Unlike many sweaters or jackets, capes and ponchos give kids the warmth they need while letting them move the way they want. Parents love the combination of style and functionality, and girls love the twirlability. Big-button capes and detailed ponchos are in for fall, so deliver with these designers who do the trend best, including the little hummingbird, NICO.NICO, Girl and a Mouse and Babylady Inc.

“Buy American!” is a more common rallying cry as concerned consumers support the high standards that make US products some of the best in the world. A Gallup Poll showed that more than half of the consumers surveyed would be willing to pay a premium for US goods. Stateside companies not only support and grow the American economy via sales transactions, but they also create new opportunities for local, quality brands. Capitalizing on American know-how and craftsmanship, 100%Gumdrop, Radish Moon, Holt and Lulu, and American Plastic Toys have stayed true to their roots by bringing customers the peace of mind that US-made goods can buy.