Producer profile

Avalon Organics
Petaluma, California

By Susan Dumett

(April 2003) — As Mark and Stacey Egide walked through acreage covered in lush lavender the idea of creating a line of therapeutic body care products derived from certified organic aromatic flowers and healing herbal botanicals seemed only natural.

The two founded Avalon Natural Products in 1989 and together created a unique collection of quality personal care products for consumers seeking natural, organic and cruelty-free ingredient alternatives. The collection includes Avalon's own Organic Botanicals which guarantees between 70% — 100% certified organic ingredients including lavender hydrosol, aloe vera, herbal extracts and pure plant oils.

Other brands in the Avalon line include Alba Botanica, Beauty Without Cruelty, Sonoma Soap Co., Tisserand Aromatherapy and Un-Petroleum.

"Like PCC, we started small," says Tim Schaeffer, Avalon spokesperson. "We've stayed true to our commitment to organic and all natural products and have enjoyed a growing clientele."

Schaeffer stresses that the soothing, calming affects of lavender — especially lavender hydrosol — remain a core aspect of both the company's products and philosophy.

"Unlike other products that simply use lavender essential oil, we incorporate the entire essence of the plant, both water and fat soluble." says Schaeffer. "We want people to experience that — the entire essence of our products, healthy, effective pure — in their day to day lives."

See Avalon Organics for more information.