Business partners since their lemonade stand in elementary school, Sarah Ribner co-founded PiperWai Natural Deodorant with her best friend, Jess Edelstein. Sarah began her journey with wellness almost 9 years ago, as a solution to her skin sensitives, allergies and general lethargy. She transformed her health and appearance through clean eating, nontoxic personal care products and dedication to an active fitness regimen. Until three years ago, an effective natural deodorant was the missing piece in her quest to lead a healthy lifestyle.
Inspired by her best friend’s dedication to clean living, Jess decided she’d had enough of the struggle with harsh, chemical ingredients in typical deodorants that irritated her sensitive skin. So she set out to invent her own formula. To test it out, she shared it with Sarah, who took it on a volunteer trip to South America. It held up trekking through the hot and humid weather, and by the end of her trip, Sarah was a believer. Together, they refined the product and created a brand that is quickly on its way to becoming a household name!
Sarah is currently finishing her MBA at Columbia Business School in NYC while continuing to build a deodorant empire.
WELL Summit Breakout Session Topic
From Maker to Mainstream: Scaling Production While Maintaining Quality
Are you a maker dreaming about taking your niche product mainstream, or a consumer wondering how your favorite indie brand ends up selling to big box stores without compromising quality? Join Sarah Ribner, co-founder of PiperWai Natural Deodorant, as she discusses the challenges and opportunities of scaling production of a natural product while maintaining quality. Sarah’s firsthand experience and deep knowledge of the ins and outs of scaling for growth will allow both conscious consumers and business owners to learn the secrets behind successfully growing a natural brand for wider distribution!