Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Davis.
Hi Stephanie, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m the founder of The Smel Gud Shop, and my journey really started with a desire to take better care of myself and the people around me in a more intentional, natural way.
I’ve always had a background rooted in science—I studied biology and have experience in chemistry—so I’ve always been curious about how ingredients actually work and how they interact with the body. But beyond that, I’m also a creator at heart. I’ve always loved making things with my hands.
What started as a personal need turned into something much bigger. I began creating small-batch products for myself and my family because I wanted cleaner, more nourishing options—products that felt good, worked well, and didn’t rely on harsh or unnecessary ingredients.
As I started sharing what I made, people kept coming back. They loved how the products felt, how they fit into their daily routines, and how they elevated simple moments like taking a shower or winding down at night. That’s when I realized this wasn’t just a hobby—it was something people truly needed.
Over time, The Smel Gud Shop grew into a full product line of plant-based skincare, haircare, and wellness products. One of the things that really sets us apart is that every formula is handcrafted in small batches and built around high-quality ingredients like avocado oil, which is a signature part of everything we make. It enhances the effectiveness of other ingredients while keeping products lightweight and nourishing.
A major turning point for the brand was developing our magnesium and arnica line. It became a customer favorite because it fits seamlessly into everyday routines and helps people feel more supported in their bodies without overcomplicating things.
Today, what started in my home has grown into a recognized brand, recently celebrating five years in business and being featured in wellness publications. But at the core, nothing has changed—I still create with intention, I still care deeply about every ingredient, and I still believe that taking care of your body should feel simple, luxurious, and natural.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road—and I think that’s true for most entrepreneurs, especially when you’re building something from the ground up.
In the beginning, I was doing everything myself, and in many ways, I still am. I handcraft every product in small batches, but I also manage every part of the business behind the scenes—my website, wholesale through Faire, social media, email marketing campaigns, product development, customer service, and fulfillment. There’s no large team behind The Smel Gud Shop—it’s me making sure every detail is right.
One of the biggest challenges has been learning how to wear all of those hats while still maintaining the quality and intention behind the products. It’s a constant balance between creating and operating.
There have also been moments where I had to navigate setbacks that weren’t directly related to the products themselves—like platform restrictions, understanding compliance around product messaging, and making sure everything I communicate aligns with guidelines while still clearly expressing the value of what I’ve created. That was a learning curve, but it ultimately made the brand stronger and more intentional in how we show up.
Another challenge is simply the reality of growing a business without cutting corners. I’ve always been committed to using high-quality, plant-based ingredients and keeping everything small-batch, which means growth has to be thoughtful. It’s not about scaling fast—it’s about scaling right.
But through all of it, those challenges have shaped the brand. They’ve made me more resilient, more strategic, and even more connected to my customers. Because I’m involved in every step, I truly understand what people are looking for and how to continue evolving while staying aligned with the heart of the business.
So no, it hasn’t been smooth—but it’s been purposeful. And every challenge has played a role in building what The Smel Gud Shop is today.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’ve always seen myself as a creative first. I love making things—working with my hands, blending ingredients, and turning simple elements from nature into something that feels beautiful and meaningful in everyday life.
My work is really a blend of science and creativity. With my background in biology and chemistry, I understand how ingredients function, but what I love most is transforming that knowledge into products that people actually enjoy using. For me, it’s not just about what a product does—it’s about how it feels, how it smells, and how it fits into someone’s daily routine.
At The Smel Gud Shop, I create plant-based skincare, haircare, and wellness products, all handcrafted in small batches. I specialize in products that turn everyday moments into something a little more special—whether it’s applying body butter after a shower or winding down at night with a simple routine.
One thing people really recognize about my products is how they feel—rich but not heavy, nourishing without being greasy. That’s something I’ve worked really hard to perfect, and a big part of that comes from using avocado oil in everything I make. It’s become a signature for me and something that truly sets my formulations apart.
What I’m most proud of is that I’ve stayed true to how I started. I still make everything myself, and I’m involved in every single part of the business. There’s a lot of care that goes into each product, and I think people can feel that. It’s not just something that’s made—it’s something that’s created with intention.
I think what sets me apart is that I don’t rush the process. I take my time to make sure everything feels right—from the ingredients I choose to the final product someone holds in their hands. My goal has always been to create products that feel like a small moment of care in someone’s day.
At the end of the day, I’m most proud of building something that people genuinely connect with—something that started from a personal place and has grown into a brand that supports others in their own everyday routines.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
There are so many ways people can connect with and support what I’m building, which I truly appreciate.
The most direct way is simply by experiencing the products—whether that’s through my website or through one of the boutiques or retailers that carry The Smel Gud Shop. Every order, every repeat customer, and every referral really does make a difference, especially as a small, independently run business.
I also love collaborating with like-minded brands, wellness spaces, and creatives. That can look like wholesale partnerships with boutiques, spas, and salons, or working together on curated gift sets, pop-ups, or special features. I’m always open to partnerships that align with a shared focus on intentional living, quality ingredients, and thoughtful experiences.
For those who connect with the brand, supporting can be as simple as sharing their experience, leaving a review, or telling a friend. Word of mouth has been a huge part of my growth, and it means even more when it comes from someone who genuinely loves the products.
And for anyone who wants to stay connected, following along on social media or joining my email community is a great way to be part of what I’m building—whether it’s new product launches, behind-the-scenes moments, or simple everyday routines.
At the heart of it, every bit of support—big or small—helps me continue creating with intention and growing something that I truly believe in.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thesmelgudshop.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesmelgudshop/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesmelgudshop
