Just in time for Mother's Day, we would like to shine a spotlight on one of our favorite vendors. Her products are amazing and would make a very special gift for mom (paired with her favorite tea, of course!). Of course you don't need to be a mom to enjoy these products-they're made for everyone!
Our favorite place to find new products to carry in our shop, specifically products from LOCAL artists and makers, is at Occoquan's famous festivals: Riverfest and the Fall Arts & Craft Show. One of the first vendors that our owner, Petra, scouted was Erica Smith. Erica is the woman behind Earth Essentials by Erica. Petra tried and loved the holistic skincare products, and felt that the quality and aesthetic of the products, along with the intentionality and uplifting vibes of the brand and it's maker, was a perfect fit for our shop. Since the first year of our shop's existence we have asked Erica if she would consider letting us carry her fantastic products in our shop. In 2025 we were finally able to stock a selection of Earth Essentials by Erica products and the response has been-as we knew it would be-overwhelming. Our customers LOVE these products. In fact, we apologize if we are out of your favorites! Read on to learn more about the amazing Erica Smith.
Erica Smith is the brains, heart, and soul behind Earth Essentials by Erica. Follow the link below to shop what we have in stock!
1. Tell us a little about yourself.
I’m Erica Smith, the founder of Earth Essentials by Erica. I’m based in Virginia, and my heart is in creating intentional, high-quality botanical skincare while sharing knowledge and nature-inspired offerings with others.
2. How did you get into making beauty and skin products? What was the first product you made?
I actually got into making products after struggling to find truly clean, effective options for my son’s sensitive skin when he was little. I started small, making balms and oils for family. The very first product I perfected and sold was a simple, soothing Calendula Salve.
3. What is your favorite product that you make?
That’s tough! Right now, I’d say anything with my Uplift Essential Oil blend because it’s just the perfect addition to this time of year.
4. What is your best seller?
My best seller is consistently the Breathe Rollerball; it’s such an incredible sensory experience! (She's right-We're currently sold out of this product at Leaf & Petal!)
5. What is your favorite scent profile?
I’m always drawn to deep, grounding scents like patchouli, vetiver, and resins, but I’m also a huge lavender fan! I love scents that feel ancient, earthy, and comforting..
6. What is one underrated beauty/skincare tip or product?
A few underrated beauty and skincare tips are whole-food nourishment, good sleep, staying hydrated, and authentic joy. Healthy skin is so connected to how we care for ourselves as a whole.
7. From where do you source the plants used in your products?
I source plants from a few trusted suppliers who focus on ethical harvesting and high quality, like Oshala and various small farms and distilleries for specific botanicals. I prioritize quality, freshness, and transparency above all else.
8. You are an inspiration and mentor to other prospective entrepreneurs. What is one piece of advice you have been given or would give others looking to start their own business?
For anyone starting out, my biggest piece of advice is: do not try to be everything to everyone. Pick a niche you genuinely love and serve that specific person deeply. It can feel like “the market is saturated,” but true connection, consistency, and quality in a focused area will always stand out. And don’t be afraid to charge what you’re worth!
9. The great thing about our vendors is that as much as we love their products, they usually are also tea lovers! Some of our staff Earth Essentials favorites are the Calming Blue Tansy Body Scrub and the Sore Muscle Massage Oil. We know you're a tea drinker, what’s in your cup?
Today it was red raspberry leaf, nettle, and peppermint tea :)
We want to thank Erica for trusting us with her products and for taking the time to answer our questions. We find that our tea lovers tend to appreciate quality products that look beautiful, make them feel beautiful, and are made with extreme care. Erica's products fit right in at Leaf & Petal and have quickly become some of our bestsellers.
Support Erica and other artists and vendors by shopping small and local in our shop. If you are interested in Erica's other products follow her @earthessentialsbyerica on Instagram, check out her website www.earthessentialsbyerica.com and visit her at a local festival near you (including Riverfest in June!) www.earthessentialsbyerica.com/events.