Seven years ago, shortly after transitioning her hair from relaxed to curly, Denver-based mother of five Cheriece Peterson found that many commercial products, besides being expensive, also had potentially harmful ingredients. She researched how to make her own, and launched Natural Urbanity.

Peterson’s hair and body products never contain petroleum, paraben, phthalates, or mineral oil. They do include lavender, rosemary, and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powders.

“[Consumers] should feel confident that the natural product they are using has all of the good stuff and none of the bad,” Peterson says.

Her inspiration comes not only from personal need, but from her local community and family.

“From a parental aspect, being a business owner is more than just creating financial means of another stream of income and a legacy,” Peterson explains. “I get to teach them how to bring creative ideas to fruition and the value of hard work. They learn how to handle failures as learning experiences as well as to celebrate wins no matter how big or small. They get to see my struggles and triumphs… I get to show them how to interact, love on, and serve people from different walks of life.”

Because the winter can be particularly harsh on the skin and scalp, Peterson recommends using Natural Urbanity’s Butter Creme, Butter Love, and Triple Butter Lip Balm this season. While her hair products were designed mainly for the coily and curly community, the Herbal Hair Tea helps bring all hair back to normal pH levels, and the Herbal Hair Oil helps soften and seal in moisture.

Gift sets and custom products are also great options for the holidays; customers can add personalized wording on the labels and choose from a variety of natural scents to certain products.