Today we’d like to introduce you to Kay Baker.
Hi Kay, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
Before embarking on the journey of Green Llama, my career as an Occupational Therapist specializing in pediatrics allowed me to witness the incredible potential of individuals. However, my passion for the environment always tugged at my heart, leading me to make mindful purchasing decisions. Frustrated by the excessive plastic waste and harmful chemicals associated with traditional cleaning products, I took it upon myself to create refillable solutions. Collaborating with my husband, a talented neuroscientist skilled in formulation, we decided to establish a company that would empower others to reduce their plastic footprint. Thus, Green Llama LLC came into existence.
Situated in the scenic region of East Tennessee, specifically Johnson City, Green Llama emerged as a startup in May 2021. Our humble beginnings involved selling our products at the local farmers market in JC while concurrently developing our online e-commerce platform, which can be found at www.greenllamaclean.com. Recognizing the need for guidance and expertise in the realm of entrepreneurship, we partnered with Founder’s Forge, a prominent establishment in JC, and actively participated in the SPARK CleanTech accelerator program at UT Knoxville. These invaluable experiences allowed us to gain a comprehensive understanding of the intricate dynamics involved in running a successful business.
While we continue to grow, we remain committed to enhancing the quality of our offerings. As a testament to our dedication, we recently collaborated with another esteemed local company to pioneer the world’s first trigger spray made from recycled wind turbine blades, which we incorporated into our range of surface cleaning products. This groundbreaking partnership signifies our relentless pursuit of innovative and sustainable solutions. As the pioneers in this field, we are immensely proud and excited to introduce this eco-friendly advancement to the world.
At Green Llama, we firmly believe that by prioritizing the well-being of our planet, we can create a brighter and healthier future for generations to come. Our refillable tablets for surface cleaning products are just the beginning of our commitment to reducing plastic waste and promoting environmentally conscious practices. We invite you to join us on this journey towards a cleaner, greener tomorrow.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Coming from backgrounds in health and science, we embarked on this venture driven by our passion for the environment. However, our lack of expertise in marketing and business posed significant hurdles along the way.
Developing our products, which involved creating effective and eco-friendly cleaning solutions, required extensive research and development. We invested considerable time and resources to ensure our products met our high standards of safety, sustainability, and efficacy. We did this ourselves, with very limited input. This is one thing that separates us from other companies; we developed the formulations ourselves and make them refills in our “Llama Lab,” our converted garage.
Navigating the complexities of supply chain management was another challenge. We had to identify suppliers who aligned with our values and could provide the quality and quantity of ingredients and packaging materials we required.
One of the major obstacles we faced was in marketing our innovative concept of refillable cleaning tablets. Educating consumers about the benefits and convenience of this approach required effective communication and creative marketing strategies.
Securing funding and managing finances was another challenge. As healthcare professionals, we had to seek investments, participate in accelerator programs, and diligently plan our finances to sustain and grow our business.
Despite these obstacles, our passion for the environment and dedication to reducing plastic waste drove us forward. We continuously sought opportunities to learn, adapt, and improve. Through perseverance and a supportive team, we overcame these challenges, making a positive impact on the environment and continuing to grow Green Llama.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Combining my background as an occupational therapist specializing in pediatrics with our new startup, Green Llama, has been a truly synergistic endeavor.
In my previous career, I witnessed firsthand the impact of environmental factors on children’s well-being and development. This experience fueled my passion for creating a cleaner and healthier world for future generations. Green Llama, with its focus on reducing plastic waste and providing eco-friendly cleaning solutions, aligns perfectly with this vision.
Drawing on my expertise in sensory integration and understanding children’s unique needs, we have infused our refillable tablet products with a keen understanding of environmental sustainability and safety. By formulating cleaning solutions that are effective, non-toxic, and gentle on both surfaces and the planet, we prioritize the health and well-being of both children and the environment.
Our holistic approach to product development and commitment to client-centered care extends beyond the therapy room and into the realm of Green Llama. We aim to create a nurturing environment where individuals and families can make conscious choices that positively impact their homes, communities, and the Earth.
By combining the knowledge and skills acquired during my years as an occupational therapist with the innovative solutions offered by Green Llama, we strive to empower individuals to create cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable living spaces for themselves and their loved ones.
Together, my experiences in pediatric occupational therapy and my dedication to environmental sustainability have shaped Green Llama into a company that not only provides effective cleaning solutions but also supports the well-being and development of individuals and the planet.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Our mission is to create cleaning and hygiene products that don’t negatively affect our health or the environment, and we passionately committed to this.
Green Llama stands out with its strong commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and customer satisfaction. We prioritize eco-friendly practices, actively engage with our local community, and provide resources to educate consumers. Our continuous innovation drives us to improve our products and expand our range of sustainable solutions. Join us in creating a cleaner, more sustainable future, one refillable tablet at a time.
Pricing:
- Complete Home Cleaning Kit ($39.95)
- Refills (~$3 each)
- Solid Dish Soap Bar ($9.95)
- Effective, Natural Laundry powder ($15.95)
- Single Bottle Surface Cleaning Kits ($14.95)
Contact Info:
- Website: greenllamaclean.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greenllamaclean/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/greenllamaclean
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-llama-clean
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpXsR_GuntlwxF3yCsWKW1Q
