Eco-preneurs 2015
Co-Owners, Hip Chick Farms
Serafina Palandech and Jennifer Johnson are the hip chicks behind Hip Chick Farms, a company that produces all-natural, free-range, organic chicken meals sold at Whole Foods, Safeway and grocery stores across the country. The idea came about as a result of Johnson′s other job, working for a family in San Francisco as a private chef. (She has also cooked at Chez Panisse, the famed California restaurant founded by Alice Waters.) “Jen′s passion for food was combined with our belief in creating sustainable food systems,“ says Palandech. “The field chose us—natural foods are our way of life.“ The couple, who will be in Food & Wine this month, credit many mentors for their success, including folks at Amy′s Kitchen, Cowgirl Creamery and Three Twins Ice Cream. (“Everyone has been so generous with their time,“ notes Palandech.) But Palandech and Johnson are generous, too, giving back some of the money from their sales to non-profits and participating in their community whenever possible. And while they admit being a lesbian-owned business has exposed them to some discrimination, they don′t let it get in their way: “No matter what happens, we believe in our vision and our family and know that we will succeed.“ Their advice to others? “Always say yes, but never take no for an answer!“
These out entrepreneurs embrace a greener business model.
Tag Ceder
Founder and CEO, Definitions Skincare
Purchasing beauty products can be overwhelming, especially if you′re looking for antiaging natural options. Definitions Skincare is making that process a whole lot easier by providing a wide range of natural and organic items—including facial cleansers and moisturizers, cellulite treatments, eyeliners and lipsticks–which contain no parabens, synthetic dyes, synthetic fragrances, PEGs, or propylene glycol. The company utilizes science, technology and a unique blend of ingredients to create products they believe will deliver the fastest, best, and longest lasting results for their customers. “I′ve been in the industry [as a massage therapist, esthetician, sales rep and spa director] for many years,“ says company CEO Tag Ceder, “and I formulated Definitions Skincare to roll out products like nothing else out there—products that wow in a single use and can still have you looking amazing over time—and because of what I found lacking in the skincare market.“ Created in spring 2012 and available at dermatology offices and top spas throughout the world, the business has received significant press attention from New Beauty, Allure, Life & Style, Organic Authority and PIX11. “Our brand philosophy is that you can always work toward achieving the complexion you desire,“ Ceder told Organic Authority. “With our clinical, yet natural face and body/cellulite products, defining your beauty is within reach.“
