Business Spotlight: FarmSudz

​By Charla Hamilton charlachelseaguardian@gmail.com
 
Nestled in the middle of downtown Chelsea, FarmSudz’s quaint shop holds something for everyone. Whether it is health or beauty or both, FarmSudz will take care of you. Recently, Chelsea Guardian spoke with owner Julie Konkle, to learn more about her business and their recently announced expansion.
 
Chelsea Guardian: Provide some background information on FarmSudz, how long you have been
in business, owners, where did the idea come from for FarmSudz etc?
Julie Konkle: “FarmSudz seriously happened because of my doubting husband.  He loved goat
milk soap- I said I could probably make it and he said “yeah, right!” I went straight to Chelsea library,
checked out a book and went to work.  The rest is history. Here, I discovered my passion.  At the
time, I was an RN working at the University of Michigan managing a clinical research group in
Neurology.  I had a passion for alternative medicine..so my small soap operation evolved to include
products designed to help soothe skin conditions and calm arthritis and muscle pain.  After many
renditions, I formulated products that help.  Again- my passion.”
 
CG: Discuss the expansion...why did you decide to expand, thoughts, excitement on this etc?
JK: “About a year ago, as my partners and I were juggling production in our tiny ‘motor home kitchen’
below Chelsea Print and Graphics, the discussion of securing additional manufacturing space
began.  We’ve considered options in Chelsea, Manchester and Jackson.  My partner (and niece)
Erin is the chief soap and lotion maker. She is a single mom and lives in Jackson- so it made
sense to see if there was a space that fit our needs where she could capitalize on time.  She
happened on a spot on S. Mechanic St.- perfect for soap and lotion production- we are so excited!!!”
 
CG: Why did you choose to open the business in Chelsea?
JK: “I live on a farm just outside of Chelsea. (Hence the name time while making products in my
basement was a great start- the need arose for a dedicated space.  The ‘Underground ‘ spot
below Chelsea Print and Graphics fit the bill perfectly...”
 
CG: What is your favorite thing about owning your own business? 
JK: “I’m learning something new every day!  As a nurse I had a very different knowledge base than
what is required of a business owner. At times it’s overwhelming, but I’m always open to learning
opportunities.”  
 
CG:What are some things you love about Chelsea and about having a business in Chelsea?
JK “Chelsea is a rare gem.  Being a lifelong Michigander, I have seen other small towns virtually
collapse (My husband, business partners and I are all from Albion, MI- which has struggled
socially and financially due to industrial collapse and other hardships). Chelsea has survived-
and in a big way.  The Main St. retail section seems to have thrived and grown, the festivals
and business marketing groups are top notch- what’s not to love?  I’m so proud to be a part of
this cool little innovative town.”
 
CG: Any other special facts or information you would like the Chelsea community to know (are
you involved in any community projects, fundraisers, etc.) 
JK: “FarmSudz is a proud sponsor of many local high school sports teams as well as
humanitarian and animal charities.  We love giving back to our community.”
 
Stop in and say hi to Julie at FarmSudz located at 104 S. Main Street #2 (below Chelsea Print &
Graphics) and check out her all natural farm fresh made goats milk soaps, lotions and more. For
more information on FarmSudz visit their website at farmsudz.com or their Facebook page at
facebook.com/FarmSudz.

 

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