Check Out Janica Flaherty’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Janica Flaherty

Hi Janica, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
After having our child, I became more conscious about the ingredients in skincare products. I started reading labels and was shocked by how many chemicals were in products marketed as “safe for babies.” I realized I didn’t fully understand what all those ingredients were or what they actually did. That’s when I was introduced to tallow, and I instantly fell in love with it. I appreciated that it was used by our ancestors and was one of the cleanest options I had found in a long time. I loved that I could use it on my child, my family, and myself.

My passion for tallow grew so much that I decided to start my own business. About a year ago, I founded Urban Prairie Apothecary, where I focus on creating natural tallow skincare products. It’s been an amazing journey of trial and error to perfect my signature whipped tallow moisturizer.

For those new to tallow, it’s the fat that surrounds a cow’s kidneys, which I render down to its purest, cleanest form. I combine this with jojoba oil, another fantastic oil for skin health. Tallow is naturally rich in vitamins A, E, D, K, and essential fatty acids. I haven’t found any other lotions that offer this naturally! The beauty of tallow is that it can be used on any part of the body. Once absorbed, you’ll feel how deeply nourished and soft your skin becomes. It’s gentle, safe for all ages, and truly magical.

I also love that my products can help others with troubled skin issues. I’ve infused calendula into one of my many options of tallows, an incredible medicinal flower known for its ability to soothe conditions like eczema. I’ve heard so many heartwarming stories about how my tallow products have helped families and children with their individual skin concerns. As a mom, wife, and business owner, I feel so grateful to have a purpose where I can share the love of clean, non-toxic products and make a positive impact on others.

Additionally, I take great pride in sourcing my beef suet (fat) from a local rancher here in Colorado. Her cows are 100% grass-fed and finished, and they are raised without antibiotics, hormones, or mRNA treatments. I’m proud to support local, ethical farming practices that align with my values of purity and sustainability.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As a business owner, there are always challenges to face. I handle every aspect of my company myself—producing the products, managing the website, and taking care of shipping. There’s not a single part of the business that I don’t oversee. This past year has been a journey of learning, figuring out how to balance running a business, managing family life, and keeping up with demand while still producing enough products.

When I first started making tallow, there were definitely ups and downs. It’s truly a science that requires precise measurements, and there were times when a batch didn’t turn out the same as the last one, which could be both time-consuming and frustrating. However, once I perfected the process, the stress lifted. I strive to make sure each product is flawless and consistent. Every day is a hustle, but I absolutely love it.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’ve always been a dreamer and a creative, knowing deep down that I was meant to create something special in my life. Starting my own business in the tallow skincare world felt like a natural fit, and I’m incredibly grateful it did. Down the road I’ll also be introducing other products to my line. I’m a people person at heart, and helping others is something I truly love. Creating products that can make a positive impact on people’s lives brings me so much joy.

How do you define success?
Success means different things to different people. For me, it’s about knowing that I’m making a positive impact on others. It’s also about teaching our child the value of running a business and the hard work that goes into it, passing on skills that aren’t typically taught in school. I feel a sense of success when I see repeat customers and hear reviews from people sharing how my products have helped and made a difference in their lives. Ultimately, success for me is about striving to be the best I can be for my family, my customers, and my business

Pricing:

• 2 oz Tallow moisturizer jars are $28 (Unscented, Unscented calendula infused, Lavender, Lavender calendula infused
• 4 oz Tallow moisturizer jars are $38 (Unscented, Unscented calendula infused, Lavender, Lavender calendula infused)
• 2 oz Rose Tallow moisturizer $30
• 4 oz Rose Tallow moisturizer $40

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.urbanprairieapothecary.com
• Instagram: @urbanprairieapothecary
• Facebook: Urban Prairie Apothecary