Spinster Sisters Co. is Building a Sustainable Future One Step at a Time

Spinster Sisters founder Kelly Perkins is deeply committed to sustainability. Kelly’s products are not only plant-based but also packaged in zero-waste, plastic-free materials. In an industry that generates 120 billion units of plastic annually—with only 9% being recycled and 12 million tons ending up in the oceans each year—Kelly’s mission is to make a meaningful impact. Spinster Sisters Co. creates solid skincare products packaged in FSC-certified, home-compostable paperboard boxes and tubes. Every ingredient is plant-based, biodegradable, and safe for the environment, reflecting Kelly’s commitment to reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly alternatives. Kelly shares her journey, challenges, and vision for a more sustainable future.

Kelly Perkins, founder of Spinster Sisters Co.

What inspired you to focus on plant-based products? Can you share the story behind your journey? It all started back in 1993. I read an article about triclosan*, an antimicrobial agent that’s now banned in many countries. It’s a hormone inhibitor and a cancer-causing agent. I decided then that I didn’t want to use products containing it anymore—or let my loved ones use them either. So, I rode my bike to Boulder Bookstore and bought books on soap-making. I didn’t think I had a creative bone in my body, but it became a great outlet for me. Back then, there weren’t many natural skincare options, so I started making my own. What began as a hobby eventually grew into a business, and now we’re sold in about 4,000 retailers nationwide.

That’s an incredible journey. Building a brand, especially as a small business, is no easy feat. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced along the way? When I officially started the company in 2012, I had no experience in retail, formulation, or running a business. Learning the ropes of distribution, pitching to retailers, and managing finances were huge hurdles. We introduced shampoo and conditioner bars in 2014, which was early in that space. It was challenging to build a business around a product format that people weren’t familiar with. But we’ve developed a loyal following, and the pandemic really accelerated our growth as people had more time to research sustainable options.

You’re also a certified B Corp. Can you tell us about that process and how it’s shaped your business? Becoming a B Corp was always a goal of mine. I believe business owners have a responsibility to drive positive change for the planet and people. However, I wasn’t prepared for how rigorous the certification process would be. We were a small business at the time, and while we had policies in place, they weren’t documented. Going through the process forced us to formalize things like vacation time, volunteer time, and benefits for employees. Since becoming certified, our turnover rate has dropped significantly, and our team is deeply committed to the mission. It’s been a transformative experience.

Taking care of employees truly pays off. And what about your customers? How do you incorporate customer feedback into your product development? When I started, I was selling at craft fairs and farmers’ markets, so I had direct interaction with customers. Their feedback was invaluable. Now, with most of our sales coming through retailers, it’s harder to maintain that connection. Last year, I decided to do a few markets again to reconnect with customers. It was eye-opening—people recognized the brand and shared their experiences. We also have a small store in our manufacturing facility where customers can shop and refill products. I plan to continue doing markets occasionally to stay connected and gather feedback.

I’ve heard your facility is powered by wind and solar energy. Can you tell us more about that? Absolutely. Sustainability is a core value for us. My husband is a physicist working in renewable energy, so we’re both deeply committed to it. Our first manufacturing facility had a few solar panels, but it wasn’t enough to power the entire operation. I researched renewable energy options and discovered Excel Energy’s Windsource program, which allows businesses to purchase wind power credits. It’s more expensive, but it aligns with our values. We’ve since been featured in a commercial for the program, which was a proud moment.

What’s your vision for the future of Spinster Sisters Co.? I want to keep growing the business while staying true to our mission. We’re moving toward regenerative farming for our raw materials and exploring ways to further reduce our environmental impact. We’ve always prioritized fair trade and sustainable sourcing, and now we’re looking at how we can close the loop on waste. For example, we’ve started turning cardboard waste into packing material for shipping. It’s all about taking small steps toward a better future.

That’s such a great approach—imperfect action is better than no action at all. 

I love to ask the women-founders I interview: What’s your go-to self-care routine when you’re feeling stressed? A hot bath is my ultimate reset. I know it’s not great for your skin, but I can’t resist a good soak with a candle and a book. I also love our body butter bar, made with fair-trade shea and cocoa butter. Living in the high desert of Colorado, it’s a lifesaver for dry skin. And we have shower steamers that create a spa-like experience, though you can’t read a book in the shower!

Hot baths are the best for melting away the stress. 

What product are you most proud of creating? I’m really proud of our body butter bars and our sore muscle rub, which we call Muscle Stuff. It took me forever to formulate because I wanted that icy-hot sensation. My husband kept telling me to move on, but I was determined to get it right. It’s now one of our bestsellers. I’m also proud of our face serum sticks, which are incredibly nourishing for the skin.

Those sound amazing. We use the face serum with Hyaluronic Acid and it is a big hit in our house. Is there anything else you’d like to share with our audience? I just want to emphasize that small steps can make a big difference. You don’t have to be perfect—just start somewhere. We’re all in this together, and every little action counts. Also, we’re woman-owned certified, and I’m proud to be part of a community of women who work incredibly hard to make a difference.

Well said. Kelly, thank you so much for sharing your story and insights. It’s been a pleasure talking with you, and I’m a huge admirer of your work. Keep up the amazing efforts! Thank you so much for having me!

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Learn more about the Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum Stick on Here I Am.

Learn more about Kelly Perkins at her website, Spinster Sister Co. 

This interview has been edited and condensed from my conversation with Katrina and Lisa. To hear the full interview, find it and follow Here I Am on our YouTube channel.

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*Note on Triclosan: it is a synthetic antimicrobial agent that was widely used in personal care and household products for its bacteria-killing properties. It could be found in items like soaps, hand sanitizers, toothpaste, deodorants, and even some cosmetics. However, triclosan has been the subject of significant controversy due to its potential health and environmental risks. Studies have linked it to hormone disruption, antibiotic resistance, and potential carcinogenic effects. Additionally, triclosan can persist in the environment, accumulating in waterways and harming aquatic life. As a result, many countries, including the United States, have banned or restricted its use in consumer products. In 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) prohibited triclosan in over-the-counter antiseptic soaps, though it can still be found in some other products like toothpaste. Its risks have led many consumers and brands, like Spinster Sisters Co., to seek safer, plant-based alternatives.