Interview with Allison Ullo, founder of Leaves of Leisure
Find out how grappling with her own caffeine addiction inspired Allison Ullo to launch Leaves of Leisure, a brand of luxurious and enjoyable herbal teas.
Where did the idea for your business come from?
The idea for Leaves of Leisure emerged from a deeply personal journey. Nearly a decade ago, I found myself grappling with a caffeine addiction that was taking a toll on my health and wellbeing. Working long hours during the day and waitressing late into the night, I had become dependent on coffee.
However, as I began to notice the negative impact of caffeine on my mood and anxiety levels, I embarked on a quest to find a healthier alternative. This journey led me to discover the rejuvenating benefits of herbal tea.
Leaves of Leisure was born out of my desire to create a brand that offered luxurious and enjoyable herbal teas as a caffeine-free alternative for those seeking balance and wellness in their daily lives.
Who’s your target audience?
Our target audience is anyone who values wellness, self-care, and a moment of tranquility in their daily routines.
We cater to individuals looking for caffeine-free options that provide peace and pleasure, whether that’s busy professionals seeking a morning ritual to start their day on a positive note, parents looking for a moment of calm in their hectic schedules, or anyone who appreciates the art of brewing a delicious cup of tea. Leaves of Leisure tea is designed to bring a sense of balance and harmony to modern lives.
How do you spread the word about what you do?
I use a multi-faceted approach to share the brand’s mission and offerings. This includes leveraging the power of social media and online marketing to connect with our community, collaborating with influencers and bloggers who align with our values, participating in various industry events and expos, and reaching out to retailers who share our passion for herbal teas.
Additionally, press features and bylines in reputable publications have played a significant role in expanding our reach and introducing Leaves of Leisure to a wider audience.
What’s your proudest moment so far?
One of my proudest moments was witnessing the positive impact Leaves of Leisure had on our customers. Hearing stories from individuals who found solace and wellness in our teas, and knowing that we were making a difference in their lives, was incredibly fulfilling.
Moreover, being featured in prominent publications like Forbes, Buzzfeed, and Brit & Co validated the importance of our mission to offer caffeine-free options in the herbal tea market. These moments of recognition and customer testimonials have been truly rewarding.
What are your three top pieces of advice for someone wanting to do something similar?
- Stay true to your mission: It’s essential to remain authentic to your brand’s mission and values. When you’re passionate about what you’re creating, it resonates with your audience on a deeper level.
- Embrace resilience: Entrepreneurship is filled with ups and downs. Embrace failures as opportunities to learn and grow. Resilience is often the key to overcoming challenges.
- Build a support network: Surround yourself with mentors, peers, and a supportive community. Networking and seeking advice from those who’ve walked a similar path can provide invaluable insights and encouragement along your journey.
Find out more about Leaves of Leisure.
