Today we’d like to introduce you to Jay and Heidi Woller.
Hi Jay and Heidi, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
We’ve always had the dream of being entrepreneurs. Last summer on a family road trip to Colorado, the idea of Guy Lively was born. It was there that we decided to bring the essence of nature to a men’s skincare line focusing on real, natural ingredients. As active, outdoor enthusiasts who have a passion for health, wellness, and being good stewards of the environment, creating this type of product line was a “natural” fit. As we did further research, we saw that the men’s skincare industry was being driven by natural and premium products, so that’s what we set out to create!
We officially began working on our business in July of last year. It was a fun, yet challenging process. I have a background in marketing and launching products, but we are both new to the skincare industry, so there was a huge learning curve. We started by researching manufacturers and packaging suppliers until we found partners that aligned with our values of natural, responsibly sourced US-based ingredients and packaging. We then got to work on designing the packaging, producing the product, and creating the website. We officially launched in January of 2022.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
In any new business, there are always challenges. One of the most challenging and stressful steps was coming up with a brand name, believe it or not. We probably had a list of over 100 names. We finally narrowed it down, sent out a survey to friends and family, and decided on Guy Lively.
Another challenge to starting a new business is juggling work and family. Jay is a full-time elementary principal, and I work part-time. We also have two very active teenage boys. Managing work, our business, and family life can be stressful at times. We work many nights and weekends to make it all happen! However, it’s worth it as we are pursuing our dream.
Finally, as an entrepreneur, you are a “jack of all trades.” We are accountants, marketers, salespeople, production specialists, buyers, and more. We’ve just had to figure everything out as we go. It’s a good thing we love to be challenged!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Located in Minneapolis, MN, Guy Lively provides premium men’s skincare products. Unlike traditional products that contain harsh chemicals that can harm the body and the environment, Guy Lively products contain natural and organic ingredients.
From the ingredients to the packaging, we hold ourselves to the highest standard. We strive to use the most natural and effective handcrafted ingredients, environmentally friendly packaging and partner with local businesses exclusively within the United States.
Our products include manly scented all-natural bar soap, shaving cream, aftershave lotion, and beard oil, and a face care line.
Our products can be found at retailers across the Midwest and on guylively.com.
What matters most to you? Why?
There are thousands of skincare products available for women but very few for men – especially products with natural & organic ingredients. We want to give men a choice. Men are exposed to over 80 chemicals a day using traditional skincare products; however, that number can be zero using products with real, natural ingredients.
And even products considered “natural” are not always natural. We wanted to make sure that our products were truly clean, so if you compare ingredient labels you’ll find that we have some of the cleanest, men’s natural skincare products available on the market.
Finally, it’s not only about real, natural products. They also have to work! We are grateful to have received very positive feedback thus far on all our products.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: guylively.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guylivelyskincare/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/guylivelyskincare
