Rising Stars: Meet Melanie Ravey

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melanie Ravey.

Hi Melanie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’ve always been a maker and DIY-er since I was young. I love learning new skills and making things with my hands. I also have a fine arts degree in jewelry and metalsmithing. After a few years away from the bench and letting my work life consume me a bit, I got into macrame and weaving as a sort of meditative hobby.

It was during the pandemic that I decided to turn my hobby into a business, making macrame and woven home goods. Around that time, I also started working towards a herbalism certification with a local holistic school in Denver. I’ve always been interested in health and wellness, natural remedies, and the healing power of plants. I love to garden, cook, and make my own home products.

After some self-study in herbalism over the years, I realized I wanted to pursue a more formal education. This started a journey of self-discovery and healing, helping me break up with birth control, balance my hormones, and reconnect with my truest self.

More recently, I felt this strong pull towards birth work and supporting people with fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum both physically and emotionally along with the help of botanicals. Maybe it is my own fertility years, but something led me to become a trained labor and postpartum doula, and now my business is pivoting once again!

I just rebranded from “Wildcraft Goods” to “Wildcraft Birth and Botanicals” to better reflect where I am at and where I am going. Right now, my business is mostly focused on herbal apothecary goods and wellness services, but I do still create a few macrame pieces for my Etsy page as well as commissions. I also love teaching local macrame workshops!

Wildcraft Birth & Botanicals is really just a culmination of everything I love and believe in. From offering herbal consultations and doula services to crafting artisanal products, I’m all about empowering people to embrace holistic wellness and their body’s innate wisdom.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has definitely been a rollercoaster of emotions for me. I am very much an introvert and enjoy the behind-the-scenes roles of running a small business, like making products, much more than the marketing and socializing roles. My first year I jumped into too many markets and ended up burning out pretty quickly.

Now, I am more intentional about how I spread my time and energy. Trying not to overextend myself has been a work in progress. With all my interests, hobbies, part-time jobs, and family, finding balance and protecting my energy and nervous system to prevent burnout is key.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in herbalism and birth work through my business. I think what sets me apart is my holistic approach and empathetic nature. I pride myself on meeting people where they are and, providing compassionate support throughout their wellness journey. My calm and grounded personality allows me to create a safe space for my clients, where they feel heard and supported.

In addition to my holistic approach, I like to create products that are approachable and accessible to all. I believe in making wellness simple and uncomplicated, ensuring that everyone can benefit from the healing medicine of herbs and botanicals. My background in fine arts and craftsmanship adds a creative touch to my work, allowing me to create products that are both beautiful and functional.

What I’m most proud of is the positive impact I’ve had on the lives of those I’ve supported. Whether it’s providing relief from health issues through herbal remedies or offering compassionate support during an important moment, knowing that I’ve made a difference in someone’s life is incredibly fulfilling.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://wildcraft-goods.com
• Instagram: @wildcraft_birthandbotanicals

Image Credits
Emily Valeo