Howdy & Hello, Inc.

I just got word that we’re legit. Actually, we’re not just a company, we’re a benefit corporation.

If you’re not familiar, the benefit corporation is a new legal designation for companies that want to go beyond seeking profits and shareholder value. It’s for businesses that make money like any other company — but they also strive to make a positive impact in the world. 

When we set this up, I was advised that this structure was so new that there may be unknown legal implications. I was also warned that attracting venture capital or selling the company could be more difficult.

But I’ve always believed that business can be a force of social and environmental good and I wanted that concept written into the company’s DNA.

I was also reassured that some of my favorite companies are already on board. Patagonia, the outdoor gear company, and Method, the eco-chic cleaning products manufacturer, are two leaders in this movement. (For more information about benefit corporations and Certified B Corps, check out the nonprofit B Lab). 

So that’s it, we’re incorporated. I’m excited. Truthfully, at the moment I’m more exhausted than excited. But it’s great to have this little task is checked off… and now the real work begins. 

When I talk about the company I’m starting, I’d like to think that ”eco-cool personal care products” and my first post to this blog introduce the concept well.

But I realized that I needed a simpler way of spitting out what we’re really up to. So that’s what the title of this post is, my five word description of what we’re focused on right now. 

I’m a first-time entrepreneur and this is a blog about my experiences as I start Howdy & Hello, Inc., a company that will make eco-cool personal care products.

I should begin by saying that Howdy & Hello will not be our brand name — we’re still working on that. What I have worked out is why I founded this company.

I believe that a lot of people would buy natural personal care products if there were better options. That’s why I’m creating a company where performance, good design, and sustainability will drive every decision.

From deodorant and body wash to facial moisturizers and shampoo, we’re building “eco-cool” into every product.

Okay… that’s the vision. The reality is, we’re starting by bringing this approach to a single product, deodorant, and people will love it because: 

• Our formulations will really work. It’s a little tricky to make effective products with naturally-derived and skin-friendly ingredients. But natural deodorants offer a clear opportunity to enhance performance and we’re pouncing on it. 
• Our scented products will have awesome fragrances. Imagine a deodorant that smells better than most fine fragrances. You’ll have to try it to believe it. 
• Our packaging will look really cool. It’ll also be designed with sustainability in mind. 

If you’re interested in this project, follow this blog or be in touch. I definitely want to meet  people in the industry, bloggers, journalists, and anyone who’s passionate about beauty and personal care products.