We had the good fortune of connecting with Marcella Doniza and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marcella, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
In 2015, I became increasingly aware of the harmful chemicals in store-bought skincare products and the animal testing associated with many of them. As someone who loves animals and has a deep appreciation for plants, I struggled to find natural, cruelty-free alternatives on the market. This led me to pursue a course in aromatherapy, where I quickly fell in love with the science behind essential oils and their ability to be blended for various intentions. I began by creating my own lip balms and salves, sharing them with friends and family. It wasn’t long before some of them encouraged me to turn my passion into a business.

In March 2017, I launched Kesem, which means ‘magic’ in Hebrew—a name that perfectly embodies the essence of aromatherapy. My mission was simple: to create and share handcrafted, natural, cruelty-free products that harness the power of essential oils to enhance mood, energy, and well-being. Whether it’s uplifting, calming, or grounding, I believe different scents have the ability to transform how we feel and connect with ourselves. All my ingredients are sustainably and ethically sourced to ensure the highest quality products.

Since then, my product line has grown to include lip balms, aromatherapy oils, body butters, lotion bars, bath and shower products, CBD pain salves, and even pet products. I also offer personalized consultations to create custom blends for concerns like arthritis, skin issues, and emotional wellness. In addition, I lead workshops where I teach others how to safely use essential oils and make their own products.

At the heart of my work is a commitment to sharing natural healing remedies with my community and empowering others with the knowledge of aromatherapy.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My educational and professional background is in fashion and graphic design. I graduated from The Fashion Institute of Technology and spent over 15 years working in the fashion industry, primarily specializing in ladies’ intimate apparel and loungewear, as well as home decor, pet goods, and kids’ loungewear. I had the opportunity to work for a range of companies, from start-ups to couture brands and large corporations. My experience involved developing and producing seasonal collections—from concept to production—including sourcing fabrics and trims, creating prints for fabrics and embroideries, and designing artwork for packaging.

When I transitioned from the fashion industry to pursue my passion for aromatherapy, I applied everything I had learned about product development and packaging to my new business. Each product I create is handcrafted and unique, expertly formulated with plant chemistry and intention. Some of my bath and shower products are even hand-painted with mineral powders, adding artistic touches alongside their aromatherapeutic benefits. Every package is thoughtfully designed, ensuring that each order is wrapped not just for personal enjoyment but also for gifting the magic to others.

The journey to turn my passion into a full-time business has certainly had its challenges. Fear and self-doubt have been obstacles at times, but I’ve been fortunate to have the support of amazing friends and fellow business owners who have taught me invaluable lessons and encouraged me to keep pushing forward. Every opportunity—whether it’s placing my products on retail shelves, vending at an event, or fulfilling wholesale and retail orders—has reinforced the need for natural products and fueled my determination to continue.

As a creative, my biggest struggle has been navigating the business and marketing aspects of entrepreneurship. To overcome this, I’ve taken marketing courses and learned different strategies for creating effective campaigns. I’ve also had conversations with other business owners, exchanging tips and advice. Along the way, I’ve encountered some difficult business relationships that didn’t work out financially, but these experiences have taught me valuable lessons on how to better navigate partnerships moving forward. I’m continuously learning, evolving, and adapting.

For me, the fashion industry was a creative outlet until I realized it no longer fulfilled my spirit. As I grew in the industry, I discovered a deeper calling—one that was rooted in helping others heal through natural remedies. My creative expression now aligns with my intuition, my knowledge of aromatherapy, and my desire to craft beautiful, healing products. I am constantly expanding my expertise in aromatherapy and exploring new product categories to share with my community.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Some of my favorite places to eat are Planta Queen and Love Life Cafe, both offering delicious vegan dishes. But when it comes to food, my real weakness is dessert! Zalie Cakes has the best vegan sweets, as well as unique, locally made products. Every time I visit, it’s always a great experience. I also love spending time outdoors, particularly at Oleta Park and Hollywood Beach, where I find nature brings me into a state of flow and fills me with inspiration. Monthly full moon drum circles on Miami Beach are a fun, unique experience I enjoy as well. Wynwood is another favorite spot—its vibrant street art and energy remind me of my roots in New York. There’s always something new to see and do there. My apothecary studio in Miramar, FL, is also a place of serenity for me—filled with handcrafted products that are constantly evolving. Lemala Sounds is a Jewish organization that continuously puts together great art and music events for the Jewish community. There is always something eventful to partake in. In addition, I express myself through dance. Factory Town and M2 hosts incredible parties with some of my favorite techno and house music DJs. The dance floor is a form of movement therapy for me, and the unity and vibe of the crowd are always magical.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My friends and family have been my biggest supporters throughout this journey, always encouraging me to push past my fears and share my passion. One friend, in particular, who has motivated and inspired me the most is Lindsay Mann. From the very beginning, she fell in love with my aromatherapy products and pushed me to share them with a wider audience. In a world where there’s so much misinformation about essential oils, Lindsay also emphasized the importance of educating others on safe and effective use. Her encouragement led me to start hosting workshops, where I could share my knowledge and passion for aromatherapy with others.

Tina Setia, the owner of Femmebot Clothing, was the first person to stock my products in her store. She taught me everything I needed to know about the retail world, from working with other businesses to managing wholesale and consignment orders. Watching her open her storefront in Ridgewood, NJ, was a true inspiration and set a goal in my mind for the apothecary boutique I hope to open one day.

Maya, the owner of Zalie Cakes Bakery in Hollywood, FL, has also been a significant part of my journey. When I first moved to South Florida three years ago, I was immediately drawn to her shop. She began stocking some of my products and encouraged me to host aromatherapy workshops and pop-up events in her space. Some pop-up events included, guided DIY aromatherapy products and DIY aromatherapy diffuser bracelets. These provided me with the perfect opportunity to share my knowledge and passion with the local community.

Lemala Sounds is a Jewish based production that brings music and art to the Jewish community. They have
continuously invited me to partake in their events, giving me the space to share my creations and passion with the local community and network with new people.

Most recently, Janet Heredia, a fellow aromatherapist in the South Florida area, has been a major source of inspiration and motivation. She invited me to share studio space, and together we’ve created an apothecary studio that offers natural alternatives to our community. Janet’s support and encouragement, along with the space we now share, have been instrumental in my business growth and have provided me with a nurturing environment where my creativity can truly thrive.

Website: www.kesembodylove.etsy.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kesembodylove/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kesembodylove/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.