Meet Brittney Alexandra Winbush, the founder of Alexandra Winbush. We chatted with Winbush about how aromatherapy, tea and music became her safe space after a house fire almost took her life. She talks about her greatest inspirations, how she sets intentions and her relationship with CBD. Take a sip and settle in.
What does a typical day in the life look like for you?
There’s truly no typical day as the founder of a startup. I always start my day with prayer and tea. I go over my calendar and tackle my day from there.
Why did you start using CBD?
I gave CBD a try about 3 and a half years ago when I was struggling with anxiety and sleeping. People would always suggest me using THC but it did the exact opposite and increased my anxious feelings even more.
Social Stigma or Socially Acceptable?
Socially acceptable.
Tip for starting a business?
- Start with what you have
- Do what you do best, hire people to do what they do best
- Know your “why” and keep that at the forefront of your business
What inspired you to start your company Alexandra Winbush?
I was in a house fire that nearly claimed my life and though my life was spared my comfort zone and my mental health suffered. I suffered from anxiety and depression. I started therapy but I was still looking for alternatives to help deal with the suffering. I became interested in tea for calming my anxiety, aromatherapy for comfort and sleep aid, and music to boost my spirits. Hence the Alexandra Winbush combo of candle + tea + music.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned through the process of bringing Alexandra Winbush to life?
The most important thing that I have learned with bringing my company to life is that this is bigger than me. Sometimes I get discouraged or want to give up but I will not because my community has shown me the importance of the products and mission behind Alexandra Winbush. Something that I created to help with my healing is in return healing others.
What is your perspective on the current state of the wellness industry?
Now more than ever the wellness industry is needed. Between the pandemic, quarantine, social injustices, and so much more - it’s very easy to forget to find your peace in the midst of it all but we have to. The wellness industry will have to be more inclusive in serving and directing their products and services to all people because we as humans can all benefit from better wellness practices but we all need the same access.
How has the Black Lives Matter movement impacted your platform?
Being a black woman, my company has always been black, has never excluded black people and we have always prided ourselves in the accessibility to wellness that we offer to all. With the current Black Lives Matter movement a lot of white companies are having to reflect and see where they may have failed black people, where they excluded them or did not think about them for certain opportunities. I think this was needed and because of this my company has received a lot of new support from white patrons who prior to the recent movement did not know about us.
Favorite moment or memory from starting Alexandra Winbush?
Issa Rae sharing her love for my September Sixth candle!
What does unwinding look like for you?
Oh my goodness, I hate to be so on the nose but tea, candles, and my favorite songs!
Mantra of the moment:
If I can think it, I can achieve it.
What does self-care mean to you?
Self-care means everything to me. It means loving myself, finding the time to care for myself and my mental, it is my time reset and refresh.
Lifestyle summed up in one sentence:
Candles + Tea + Music haha!
Mindful Tip?
Find your self care routine that is specific to your needs! It is different for everyone.
Favorite way to relax:
In the summer; somewhere by a pool with my favorite drink.
What are some of your hobbies?
I absolutely love cooking! My dad is a chef so I love calling him on Facetime and cooking together or finding a new Pinterest to try. Also, is pinning on Pinterest a hobby because it’s one of my favorite pass times. Hahah
Launching a company and a calm, quiet mind usually don’t go hand in hand. What were your go-to tips to handle stress?
One thing I do to handle the stress of my business is to be mindful of my language. Instead of saying “I am stressed” I will say “I am equipped to handle my current circumstances” Instead of saying “I am overwhelmed” I will say “I am prepared for the many blessings I am receiving.”
You have such a strong network of women supporting AW, especially Black female entrepreneurs (and celebs), how has that inspired you and your product lines?
My mom and my dad. They are my inspirations and my biggest support team which is a reason that I named the company Alexandra Winbush. Alexandra is my middle name that comes from my mom’s maiden name and then our last name is Winbush. It was important that to me that my parents see themselves reflected in my business because Alexandra Winbush is nothing without them.
Best piece of advice you ever received?
My dad always told me, do what you know how to do and hire people to do what they know how to do! In other terms, work smarter not harder.
CBD Expert or CBD Newbie? Somewhere in the middle!
What does success mean to you? Waking up and trying my best!
Brand you love:
Humans Before Handles
Currently inspired by:
Chloe X Halle’s Tennis Court (haha)
Life hack of all life hacks:
Pressed on Nails by PressedbyCi (thank me later!)
If you were a candle, which scent would you be?
Brown Sugar and Vanilla!
Most played song right now:
Ungodly Hour by Chloe X Halle
Favorite current read:
I’m currently reading No Disrespect by Sister Souljah
If you could grab lunch with one person, who would it be?
Solange