There are so many diverse kinds of sustainable businesses out there owned by people of color. Unfortunately, I didn’t always know this BUT once I did I know —it was something too good to keep to myself. With a few months of research, a lot of trial and error, I launched A.Y.O. Business Finder to the world as a free search engine that can help people find BIPOC-owned sustainable businesses easier than ever.

A part of me being the ultimate hype woman for BIPOC-owned sustainable businesses, I started the Biz Highlights series on IG Live for people to meet the person behind the business. A chance to learn the business origin story, the latest news on products and services, and get questions answered in real time. Although I love doing these IG Lives I learned not everyone loves IG Lives so I provided this blog version, so you can still meet these incredible business owners!

Biz Highlight featuring Felin Lune Apothecary

Biz Owner: Elizabeth Vu

Website: Felinluneapothecary.com

Instagram: Felin.Lune.Apothecary

Can you tell us a little about yourself? Your background? Your culture?

I’m Vietnamese-American and FLA’s beginnings were heavily influenced by my family taught herbalism. I graduated from the University of California, Irvine as a first generation college graduate, with initial goals of pursuing medicine. Somewhere along the way I really lost the essence of “Elizabeth” while pursuing this career path and juggling mental illness. When I discovered cosmetic formulation, it was a hobby, but now it’s so much more. Learning how to formulate and finding something that made me feel such intense joy really reminded me that I needed to learn how to love myself again, and seek the things that make me happy. The products I make are part of my self-care ritual and they remind me of how far I’ve come. They’ve empowered me and I am grateful to be able to share these products with others. I’m constantly learning how to become a better formulator and just recently finished a cosmetic chemistry course!

What problem does your business solve?

FLA offers eco-friendly low waste alternatives to everyday essentials while combining herbalism with modern cosmetic science. My formulating style is creating concentrated versions of common beauty products that are activated with water.

What’s the story behind your business name?

Félin Lune means lunar cat and it was inspired by the character Luna from one of my favorite childhood shows: Sailor Moon.

What can we look forward to seeing in the next month from your business?

FLA celebrates 3 years in September, so we’re gearing up for our annual celebration!

Where can people find you to stay connected?

Instagram, our newsletter and SMS alerts found on our website.

If you want find more sustainable business that are Asian-owned or focused on body and skin care, make sure to check A.Y.O. Business Finder that has over 220+ sustainable businesses!