Meet Tolly's Treatments

Mandi with Tolly’s Treatments

Where are you from and how does that affect your work? 
I grew up and went to college in Minnesota, lived in San Francisco for a year, Colorado for a year, and now I’ve lived in Los Angeles for 15 years! I’ve learned a lot about myself and different lifestyles along the way, but being a Scandinavian from Minnesota mostly gave me dry skin and a kind attitude ;) I bring both of these things with me into formulating skincare and aromatherapy products!

Tell us how you got your start? 
I began making the Citrus Honey lip balm when Brian and I got married in 2012 (my last name became Tollefson, hence ‘Tollys’). I wanted a non-toxic lip balm for our wedding favors and it was hard to find! So I made my own. It was continually requested by friends and family and I became enthralled with learning how to formulate more and more non- toxic products.

I launched Tolly’s Treatments officially when I became a mother in 2016 in order to stay home with my baby and still have a creative outlet. In 2022, I became a Certified Organic Skincare Formulator and began creating the formulas and branding you see today!

That is so cool. What is the hardest part of your creation process? 
Formulating products is a science, as well as an art. It takes A LOT of trial and error, feedback, and perseverance. I have the hardest time with my patience for something to click - but when it does…it’s magic!! That’s what keeps me going

What’s your favorite item that you’ve created, and why?
I LOVE the Hydrating Skin Repair body butter - it’s almost like a cult classic at this point, ha. I’ve had it since the very, very beginning and my customers still keep coming back for it. It smells divine (no synthetic fragrances, of course!) and is the perfect consistency, plus very versatile - I made it as a pregnancy belly butter, but it’s extremely healing for scars, stretch marks, extra dry skin, etc. Of my new Mindful Beauty line, I love most the intention: gentle gel cleanser.

What do you love most about Pasadena?
There are so many things I love about Pasadena, but the people top it all!! Everyone is so kind and interesting to talk with, always. And the food, I love the food.

What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect? 
Before starting Tolly’s, I was working as a producer in live TV. Mostly award shows and live specials. I loved it, but I love this work even more!

Oh wow that is a surprise! Where do you see yourself in 5 years?   
This is a hard question for me because I’m in my era of working on Mindfulness and living each day - but I also believe in having goals and dreams! In 5 years, I see myself as a healthy, happy mom and business woman who is working every day at being better. I’d love for Tolly’s to be a full time income and generating profits that can do good for my family and community.

That is a great goal. Any advice for someone just starting their own business?
Keep learning. Always work on getting better at what you do. Be mindful of what resonates. It’s going to be soul crushing sometimes, but keep trying. It doesn’t have to be huge right away, gain knowledge and perspective and you’ll find the thing that works.

Great advice. Anything special you’d like to share?
I LOVE JACKALOPE! I am so happy to be part of the most awesome community of creatives and customers. I am forever grateful, thank you for this opportunity. Xo Mandi Tollefson

Find Tolly’s Treatments at Jackalope Pasadena this April 26th & 27th at Central Park, Old Pasadena.

Website: www.tollystreatments.com

Instagram: @tollystreatments