Welcome to our So You Wanna Start A... series, designed to give you a behind-the-scenes sneak peek at the journeys that went into creating some of your favorite local brands.

Today's guest is Mary Lewellin from Red Dragon Herbs, a tea brand in the Des Moines community. 

Our favorite piece of advice: "Appreciate your smaller wins too." Mary and her team are energized by the high highs but that doesn't let them forget that a million smaller wins are what made one big win possible. Celebrate the steps that helped you get to where you are today. If you're curious about starting a tea brand, learn a little more from Mary and connect with her using the links below!

1. What do you own and why did you start this business?

I own an herbal loose leaf tea company with my husband Ryan. We started it about six years ago. He has done a lot of traveling and was in the Marines, so while he was stationed, he experienced a lot of tea culture.  We decided to grow herbs...

Welcome to our So You Wanna Start A... series, designed to give you a behind-the-scenes sneak peek at the journeys that went into creating some of your favorite local brands.

Today's guest is Cari Backes from Lusine Skin Wellness, a MedSpa in the Des Moines community. 

Our favorite piece of advice: "Don't overthink every detail." Analysis paralysis is real and you can tell Cari doesn't get stuck in being a perfectionist and instead keeps forging ahead! If you're curious about starting a MedSpa, learn a little more from Cari and connect with her using the links below!

1. What do you own and why did you start this business?

I own a MedSpa that provides cosmetic services that include: Botox, dermal filler, Microneedling, chemical peels, medical grade skincare and other facial treatments.

I am a registered nurse and aesthetician and have worked in dermatology, cosmetic surgery and MedSpas for over 15 years. I love this industry, and truly love what I do and it is so...