Update 2011: There’s been some controversy about whether or not Orglamix is really handmade or not. Please see the comments below for details and add any information you might have on the subject.

Orglamix is artisan crafted 100% pure organic mineral makeup. All Orglamix products are proudly formulated without: Nano Particles, Bismuth Oxychloride, Synthetic Dyes, Parabens, Synthetic Fragrances, Petrochemicals, Parabens. Orglamix is a proud member of PETA. I guarantee you will love Orglamix, or your money back. It’s that simple!

How did you get started? Have you worked in other creative areas before the kind of work you’re doing now?

I’ve always been involved in the beauty industry in some form or fashion, so Orglamix was a natural transition for me.

It started after the birth of my first daughter in 2004 when my skin, seemingly overnight became sensitive, blotchy and unbearably acne-ridden. Whatever I bought to try and conceal my imperfections seemed to make my face look worse.

Late night, when I was up feeding my daughter, I began researching ingredients in makeup and stumbled upon mineral makeup. I was instantly captivated by the good-for-you sparkly potions in a rainbow of hues, but once I gave them a try, I was obsessed!

Is there a story behind the name of your shop?

I wanted something that said fresh and fun; most organic brands are kind of bleh, sans color. My line is pure and organic, yet fun & creative. Orglamix is a merger of organic and glam –with a bit of a twist.

Do you work alone? With a team? Do you engage your family or friends in the work? What is your process? How do you ensure you get your work done yet still have a life?

Until recently I worked alone, but going to bed after midnight and waking at 5 am to get everything done can only last so long. I love what I do, but I’m a mom first and foremost. I realized I needed help.

I design and create all of my products; and I now have help with customer service and pulling and packing my orders. I’m also starting to outsource things like photography, website / blog and my listing so I can focus on the ‘big picture’.

Where do you sell your work? Which venues are your favorites? Do you prefer selling online or in person? Do you attend shows or fairs? Is your work in a gallery or brick-and-mortar store?

I sell on Etsy and ArtFire. I’m also working on my own website to launch this summer. It’s a challenge to maintain multiple shops and listings, plus you give up a certain amount of control. Like recently when Etsy upgraded and I could not access Etsy hacks for almost a week. It was a nightmare. It took me a half an hour to locate invoices / customers — it usually takes five minutes. That said, I love Etsy and the community. I feel it’s a great place to launch and grow your handmade business.

I have yet to attend a show or fair, but I am looking forward to my first trade show this Fall. I’m nervous and excited at the same time.

Do you have any favorite handmade shops or sellers you’d like to recommend?

I have many, but here are the shops I covet right now: SewCuteShop, sunbasilgarden, and blisscandles.

What inspires and motivates you?

I find inspiration everywhere– magazines, blogs, daily life and especially my customers. They are always an amazing source of inspiration.

What do you wish I had asked you?

“Is there anything special your customers can look forward to this season?”

I am working on so many amazing things! I just launched the new Chakra colors. They are a virtual bold & beautiful rainbow.

I’m also working on Flair, the first hybrid eye shadow. One Flair layer changes your look a little or a lot–it’s up to you. From the fine opalescence of Aura to the super-bling audacity of the Sparkles–you’ll find the perfect Flair for every mood.

Thanks Cheri. And if you would like to be interviewed next, please head over to DIY Interview.