I had the pleasure of speaking with Ashley Finley of The Kindred Apothecary at the recent Craft Lake City DIY Festival. Besides being a business owner, Ashley is a poet, student midwife, and cofounder of the Black Lives Matter Salt Lake City chapter.
How did you get started with your business?
I enjoyed making herbal medicines, tea blends, tinctures, and sprays. I would give them away and sell them to clients because I am a birth worker. I had this visualization of having an apothecary my whole life. And during the pandemic, I thought this might be the time to start one. The Kindred Apothecary is me working with our plant relatives that love us and want to heal us and care for us — inspired by the knowledge of my people.
This is your first time selling at the DIY Festival. How has your journey been?
I wanted to apply [to the DIY Festival] a few years ago, but I got imposter syndrome and I never did. But then I applied for the scholarship this year because someone from Craft Lake City reached out to me and I took that as a sign. I applied and got accepted. The scholarship program has been really beautiful because I got matched up with Andrea of The Bitters Lab who is so affirming and supportive. I’m grateful because this is the launch of my business. Like for real, for real.
What’s your advice for people struggling with imposter syndrome?
I would say you’re magical. Come as you are, show us your passion, and share what you have with the world. I want people to know that they’re worthy. We need you. There’s five different candy businesses here at the DIY Festival, and guess what? I’m going to buy all of them. Don’t ever think that there’s not enough space for you. There’s always space.
Editor’s note: These answers have been edited for length and clarity.