Today we’d like to introduce you to Tracy Wright-Graves.
Hi Tracy, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
UMUC Business Management graduate, Owner, and Operator of Intentionally Pure LLC and BEADesigns Jewelry, homeschool mom of twin teenage boys who are college-bound. Class of 2024!!
The birth of my twin boys changed my whole trajectory about being in the workforce. It launched me into a passion that was always in me. A passion to create and a desire to solve issues.
After working with several personal care companies, I felt I could make a quality product, natural and affordable to those who wanted those products but felt they couldn’t afford them. I wanted to show women and men how to pamper themselves and their skin.
My first product was my body butter, I remember whipping it by hand until I realized “there is a better way to do this”. To date, this is still one of IP top top-selling products. That product was birthed from my desire to help pregnant moms care for their skin, to keep it soft and supple, and to prevent or minimize stretch marks. From there, I ventured into hair care, skin care, and bath and body products.
I chose the name Intentionally Pure because encapsulates all that we are and will be. We are intentional about formulating and producing pure and natural products as well as educating and enlightening women and men on the benefits and usage of natural ingredients.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
This has not been a smooth road. As a homeschool mom, my challenge has been the shortage of time to fully engage my business the way I felt was needed. I had to set my priorities and that happened to be my boys and family.
Unfortunately, that didn’t stop the occasional comparison syndrome that I would feel. Funding has also been a challenge for me. Despite all the obstacles and challenges, I feel this is where I need to be so I keep pushing.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I feel like I wear many hats. As already stated, I am a homeschool mom, and that has consumed most of my time over the past 12-plus years. But over these years, I’ve managed other small businesses simultaneously. I started a cleaning company that sustained me for the majority of this time called Dust Rags N Mops. I tapped into my creative side and started a beaded jewelry company called BEADesigns Jewelry. I’ve even dabbled in selling baked goods, my specialty is carrot cake and pound cake.
What I’m most proud of is my leadership in ministry. As the community outreach leader of my church (Bladensburg SDA) our team has been able to help so many people in the community thru programs under my charge. We’ve helped families over the last 15 years through Angel Tree Prison Ministry, Bladensburg Annual Harvest Food Drive, Bladensburg Love Your Neighbor Food Pantry, and clothes closet, we’ve adopted families and provided them with much-needed assistance and child tutoring, and the list just goes on.
One of my personal favorites is my cooking ministry where I cook meals for new moms or individuals that may be struggling in some area. What I’m probably most known for is helping others.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was a serious person, a thinker. Very direct. My interest has always been in creating. I was into sewing, crafting, collaging, and jewelry. I was also into sports (track and field) music and travel.
I enjoy quiet spaces.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.intentionallypure.com
- Instagram: @intentionallypure
- Facebook: Intentionally Pure
