Today we’d like to introduce you to Susan Davis.
Susan, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I have sent an attachment of my first experience of yoga. I fell in love with the practice immediately. I was later prescribed to practice yoga on a daily basis due to recovery from surgery. With the number of classes I began to take, I discovered that I would essentially “slide off” my yoga mat from all of the perspiration. I tried towels, gloves, foot socks; nothing really worked. I became frustrated with the synthetic mats and decided to find an alternative material; a material that would absorb perspiration and be made of recycled materials. I discovered cork!! The Lauryan mat is made of 100% recycled materials, rubber and cork. It is a self-sustaining product. The bark of cork is harvested every several years and the tree regrows the bark. It is a completely green product with no chemicals or toxins added. The cork actually absorbs perspiration, as it is porous. It is anti-microbial. The cleaning process is soap and water weekly. It weighs 4 pounds, perfect for travel and is 74 inches long, slightly longer than the standard mat. The mat is streamlined, just simple and perfect. I have chosen One World Replanted as our charity of choice. I have directed that all donations from Lauryan be directed to reforestation in California. Our mantra is, charity begins at home. This year, I launched a “Mommy and Me” campaign. I have produced a child’s cork mat to promote wellness with our children and engage in a family activity. I intend to publish a small book about the elephant logo on the child’s mat by the end of this year. My company is named after my children, Lauren and Ryan. I decided originally to use the mat for my own personal practice, but it has so many great qualities that it needs to be shared with everyone.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I began as one man show. I did my own website, created my logo, I market and promote myself. I set up my own appointments, shows, and create vendor relations. I wanted to partner with someone, but it turns out, my obvious partner is my daughter. She helps with all of it, especially social media exposure. I have a couple of ambassadors now. My biggest fear is the growing pains of a small company.
What do you do? What do you specialize in?
I am a woman-owned business. I promote a green product that is environmentally sustainable. I intend to contribute to the idea of a “better way” for the use of a cork mat in the yoga community. My intentions are simple and I want to leave my footprint in life with integrity and purpose.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is measured by respect from your peers. I find that my customers share their testimony about the use of the Lauryan mat to fellow yogis. Most of my business is referral based. I believe that captures the essence of my company and products. It is a Kindergarten rule. Treat people as you want to be treated. My greatest successes are my children and the opportunity to teach. Additionally, I teach seniors in assisted living centers and cancer patients in recovery.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lauryanyoga.com
- Phone: 469-855-6033
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: lauryanyoga
- Facebook: Lauryan Cork Yoga Mats
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
