Inside the Crafters Studio: Erika Hollen

Born in Houston, Texas, Erica Hollen came to Richmond to attend grad school at VCU. She has been selling her line of botanical skin care products, Jackson Sage, since 2006. She’s also a vendor at Richmond Craft Mafia’s Spring Bada-Bing on Sunday. Let’s get to know her a little better.

April 16, 2010; 11:09 PM • by Marge Weimer

How did you come up with the name Jackson Sage?

The name comes from several places. Jackson come from two places. First, one of my favorite artist is Jackson Pollack, and his work is rooted in the unconscious and the unknown. Second, my husband and I were married in Jackson, Wyoming. Neither one of us had ever been there so it was leap of faith. Sage also come from two places. First, Sage being a spiritual guide. Second, it be a botanical herb. So when I combine the name Jackson Sage, it reminds me of the spiritual journey.

What types of materials/ingredients do you prefer to work with and why? What is that process like for you?

I like to work with all botanical ingredients. Of course, the most fun I have is making soap since it combines the power of the herbs, oils with color and texture.

Do you create products by request? If so, have you ever had a strange or interesting request?

I do on occasion do custom products but no strange request as of yet.

Did you start out your business with a specific goal or is it something that has just evolved?

I did start out with the goal that I wanted to be able to do this full time. Of course, it did not go at all as I planned. I think it became more more organic and the end goals have changed as well, I think I am thinking in bigger terms now than just being able to do this full time.

What do you like to do in your free time?

Spend time with my husband and Zoo (we have 4 dogs and 4 cats) and garden.

What can people expect to see at Spring Bada-Bing this year in terms of what you’re bringing?

Soaps, and skin care. I will have new labels and a few new soap scents.

Thanks to Erika for talking with us! To see a full list of vendors set to appear at Sunday’s Spring Bada-Bing, stop by their website.