A Movement Through Movement

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Brandon Dawson-Jarvis, founder of Grove Campus, located in Montreal, QC, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Grove Campus is a lifestyle brand that promotes a movement to take care of yourself & a movement to make the world a better place through community building. We work towards a radical new future and propel positive change in our community but in ourselves first and, of course, the planet.

Our products are printed with eco-friendly water-based ink. We use environmentally sustainable materials in our products, like cork, 100 % organic cotton, up-cycled materials, and bamboo. All orders are shipped in biodegradable or recycled packaging. Our clothes are ethically manufactured by manufacturers around the globe, where workers are treated lawfully and humanely. We are committed to fair trade and only stock products from businesses that practice fair trade and use sustainable farming and production processes.

Tell us about yourself

Through the prison system, I sought help from therapists and psychologists, but he was told they were too busy with the caseloads that they currently had and could only make time for me if he was suicidal. After being denied by the system, I continued to struggle. I left prison with PTSD and depression, as shame and guilt were on a constant loop in his mind.

A year after my release, I was at an all-time low. With very few options to resort to, I tried yoga. I was reluctant at first because I did not identify with the practice but decided to give it a try. Yoga emerged as an eye-opening practice and counteracted my mental health issues. I asked myself what I’d do if I could start over and do anything, and I landed on building a brand thus Grove Campus was born.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Being able to support families that are in similar circumstances that I once found myself in. Indirectly letting them know they are cared for through our events.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

Time management and patience! I couldn't decide between the two. They are equally challenging. I would definitely recommend meditation if you are going to go into business.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Start small and do not be afraid to fail - Despite everything you've been taught, failure is a good thing when it comes to business.
Leverage community - Work with other people as much as possible. No one makes it far on their own.
Enjoy the journey - This rollercoaster is one hell of a ride; you have to be able to navigate the ups and downs.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://grovecampus.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grovecampus
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grovecampus/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grove-campus/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.