The inspiration came from her need to combine her two passions: soaps and food. Thus, she turned concepts such as old-fashioned cardamom into grapefruit cardamom body oil and coffee with fresh mint into a cold brew mint coffee scrub. After three years of experimentation, research, and testing, Rivera formed Etta + Billie in 2009 to bring a home spa experience into everyday routines. The brand was birthed from a love for Rivera’s grandmothers, Etta and Billie, “I named the business after my paternal and maternal grandmothers.” Growing up, she spent a lot of time with both of them; hence giving her business their names meant that she always had them by her side. Rivera denotes, “They
played a significant part in my childhood, and I looked up to them so much. It felt natural to name my business after such incredible women!” In an attempt to honor her roots, the founder embodies values like female solidarity, tenacity, and support in her business. In 2014, Rivera took the business from her home and relocated it to a San Francisco studio, gaining more space to create and ship her products. When asked how the transition from home manufacturing to a full-time business was, Rivera said, “It was equally scary and exhilarating to have Etta + Billie become my full- time job. Things are constantly changing, and you have to adapt while staying true to your mission and values. Some days are smooth and exciting, and others are so frustrating that you just want to throw your hands up. I am so thankful for how much I’ve learned from the process!” The creative process began with sourcing the right ingredients suitable for most skin types, experimenting with different formulas, and finally, finding the perfect consistency. Rivera’s focus and interest grew with
a consciousness for natural, organic ingredients, leading her to obtain a green certification and follow strict sustainable standards in all areas of her business. Her products stand out because, as she declares, “unique, natural scent combinations are among our customers’ favorite parts about the brand, on top of the high-quality ingredients and focus on sustainable business practices.” Regarding the choice of the ingredients, Rivera declares, “My biggest focus is quality and how it’s grown or processed when it comes to ingredients. Like food, quality can make a difference in how your product feels. Most of my new ideas come from the food world, whether a new menu item at my 356
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