I made lip balm in my mom's kitchen at 19. It became a business sold at Nordstrom, and it's still growing decades later.
I started a lip balm business at 19 and sold to major retailers. After having kids, I chose to slow its growth so I could be present.
Gabrielle Melchionda created her company Mad Gab's lip balm as a 19-year-old anthropology student, initially dismissing the idea of starting a business. She began by making lip balm in her mother's kitchen using beeswax from a neighbor and sharing it with friends who encouraged her to sell it. Despite her initial reluctance, Mad Gab's gained popularity, eventually being sold at Nordstrom and other major retailers.
Growth slowed as Melchionda focused on her children after becoming a mother, and the business doubled in size recently. She credits her work-life balance for the company's success and the strong bond with her sons.
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