Life and Work with LaRissa Chapa

Today we’d like to introduce you to LaRissa Chapa.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
When I moved to the mountains, I had to change everything with my skin and hair. The lack of moisture in the air and being significantly closer to the sun was a shock to my skin. I felt like the living definition of parched. I’m a hairstylist by trade, so I set out to make a conditioner to combat the dryness, it didn’t turn out so well but it did make for a great skin moisturizer. From there, I started researching making bath bombs, found some recipes, swapped out non-organic ingredients, harmful perfumes, and food dyes for a shea butter base, and herbs which leaves the skin incredibly soft and without needing lotion when you got out of the tub.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It took me about a year to figure out a formula I liked, lots of fails along the way but finally, I had created something that I wanted to share with my family and friends. The response was great so I started to really take it seriously and begin to move forward with my product. My advice for others is to keep going and let it evolve, you may start out one way but then a different path may open and fall into better alignment with your purpose.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Mtn Empress – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
What I love most about the brand I’m creating is that it comes from my own self-care practices. Working in the service industry can drain your energy and I’m a strong believer in taking time for yourself, to renew and recharge. That’s not always an affordable option, especially for moms where time and money is precious. Most can’t afford yoga retreats or spa days but would be willing to make time for a soak at home. Setting an intention before the soak and allowing the crystals I include in all the bath bombs to assist in that.

Skulls have always been a big part of my world, culturally speaking as well as spiritually. Skulls represent the Life/Death/Life cycle and the crystals I use I cleanse them myself in the rivers that surround the mountain passes. Nothing more cleansing than snowmelt at 12,000ft.

Outside of bath bombs I also harvest and bundle desert sage and wildflowers that grow abundantly on my land (we have 12 acres total). At the beginning of the season, I spread wildflower seeds as an offering to the land and for my harvest. Desert sage is different from the endangered white sage and has a sweeter smell. if you work with white sage please do your research and buy from an ethical source.

Who have you been inspired by?
First and foremost, my mom, she is the greatest role model for me in business. She raised me on setting goals and intentions. A helluva a businesswoman, always continuing her education and accomplishing whatever work or career goals she has set for herself. She raised me with the mindset that no goal is unattainable, to map out the steps needed to get there and put in the work to make it happen.

I am constantly inspired by the women I meet daily, everyone has a story and we can all learn from each other. Women are so strong and when we unite and support one another we become a powerful force of energy.

Contact Info:

• Address: 100 South Ridge St
  Breckenridge, CO 80424
• Website: mtnempress.com
• Email: mtnempress@gmail.com
• Instagram: @mountain empress

Image Credit:
Micole Photography (portrait)

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