Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Carrie Martin-Haley, Founder, and CEO of Summit Sustainable Goods, located in Denver, CO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Summit Sustainable Goods is an online and pop-up style zero waste and refill shop providing personal and household care products that seek to minimize personal landfill use. From package-free household and personal care items to items with recyclable or compostable packaging, all our suppliers are vetted for their high-quality products and eco-friendly ingredients. We focus on sourcing from local small businesses throughout Colorado whenever possible and vet all our suppliers for high-quality ingredients and materials. Summit offers a variety of products, such as reusable food wraps, facial rounds, and "paper" towels, to environmentally conscious candles, lip balms, shampoo bars, and much more.
Our intimidation-free mindset sets us apart at Summit Sustainable Goods. The sustainability community can often feel exclusive and overwhelming. We focus on providing a safe space for everyone to explore small steps toward living a more eco-friendly lifestyle - from wherever you're starting. Whether you're a seasoned zero-waste expert or have never heard the term before, we love engaging in conversation and introducing you to some great local products that will help keep this earth a bit greener.
Tell us about yourself
My name is Carrie Martin-Haley, and I am the Founder & CEO of Summit Sustainable Goods! Summit Sustainable Goods is a zero waste shop, which means that all packaging and products are designed to avoid any waste that would end up in a landfill. From package-free household and personal care items to items with recyclable or compostable packaging, all our suppliers are vetted for their high-quality products and eco-friendly ingredients.
I was always interested in environmentalism and living an eco-conscious lifestyle. My first venture into environmentalism was my transition to a vegetarian diet when I was 14, and ever since have always found ways to challenge myself to live more sustainably. After beginning my work at an environmental nonprofit, I wanted to find another way to give back to the community and the earth. I started a different eco-friendly business with a business partner in 2019 and ventured off on my own in 2020 to establish my own zero-waste business and develop an intimidation-free community in the Denver area for individuals looking to make a positive impact on their environment. Through my business every day, I have the wonderful opportunity to build community and do good for the planet.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
As a new small business owner, I have been able to adapt through the pandemic to reach eco-minded customers in new and different ways - such as at outdoor farmer's markets, local pop-ups, and beyond. I'm proud of how Summit Sustainable Goods has grown since its inception in 2020 and how I've worked to create an intimidation-free space for people to explore more sustainable living.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
As a small business owner, you wear all the hats in your business. It can get tricky to juggle all the tasks of entrepreneurship as well as maintaining a healthy life outside of work. Remember to prioritize tasks when you can, and take a little bit of time each day for yourself. When your physical and mental health is taken care of, you are able to be more present and impactful in your businesses!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Entrepreneurship is a wonderful adventure! First and foremost, plan and set goals. Make sure to build relationships and gather the community around you to celebrate the wins and be with you during the more trying times. Take time for yourself when needed, and allow yourself to rejuvenate. And GO FOR IT!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.summitsustainablegoods.eco/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/summitsustainablegoods
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/summitsustainablegoods/
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.
