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

Hi Arli, what principle do you value most?
I operate on the core value that I am my sister’s keeper.

After a personal tragedy, I experienced the profound impact that nature and scent had on improving my emotional and physical well-being. I also was fortunate to be surrounded by amazing women, who encouraged and uplifted me.

Recognizing that other women face similar life struggles, I decided to launch my company Clairelle, with a mission to help them connect and find sanctuary through the power of plant-based, natural fragrances.

If one woman is empowered to embrace her authentic self, to confidently navigate life on her terms, to truly recognize that she is not alone, and to prioritize her well-being through daily self-care, then this mission will be fulfilled.

What should our readers know about your business? How did you get to where you are today business-wise. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges?
Clairelle creates natural, vegan fragrances from plant extracts, delivering beautiful, long-lasting scents, with no harmful toxins. We are grounded in science, guided by nature, and dedicated to uplifting women, particularly those of color. We want each application of our natural perfume to serve as a reminder of their strength, potential, and the boundless opportunities that await them.

When formulating our perfumes, I made a conscious decision to not include alcohol, animal-derived products, and fillers, contrary to industry norms.

As a teen, I struggled with eczema and experienced first-hand, how toxic ingredients in the popular perfumes and lotions I used, contributed to my flare ups. This taught me to always be selective about what goes on my body and put quality first.

Every ingredient in Clairelle natural perfumes is selected for its ability to soothe, soften, and protect, so wearers enjoy not just all-day fragrance, but also healthier, nourished skin.

My family is from a small Caribbean country, so growing up, we were encouraged to be socially responsible and keep eco-sustainability top of mind. These values are now at the heart of how I live and how I do business.

All ingredients are ethically sourced and Clairelle products are never tested on animals. Additionally, carbon footprint reduction is a priority at every step in our supply chain. Lastly, all product packaging is designed to be minimal and fully recyclable through standard neighborhood recycling programs, drop-boxes at large chain retailers, and our own mail-back collection program.

After completing my college degree in Biology, I pivoted, earning a technology-focused MBA. I got a cosmetology license and opened a salon in the heart of New York City, just in time for the 2008 financial crisis. In 2011, we lost a friend and colleague to domestic violence. To say there were difficult times is an understatement.

My strong desire to make a positive impact on the world is what saw me through those challenging times and it’s also what influences Clairelle today, to stand as a unique, humanity-centric brand that blends science, nature, art, and empowerment.

My winding journey has taught me many valuable lessons along the way, a few of which I’ll share:

• Gratitude first, last, and always.

• Positivity is a choice, so choose it.

• Everyone can teach you something.

• Give freely and expect nothing in return.

• Lead with empathy, especially when dealing with yourself.

Clairelle is a proud donor of Eve’s Place Inc., a non-profit 501(c)3 organization headquartered in Arizona that provides innovative and empowerment-based programs to victims of domestic, sexual and teen dating abuse, through mobile advocacy.

The story of Clairelle is one of overcoming adversity and I believe it’s a story we can all relate to. At some point in life, we have all been overlooked, underestimated, underappreciated, rejected, and even worse.

My hope is that when someone wears a Clairelle natural fragrance, she is reminded to take a deep breath, to truly believe that she is capable of overcoming any challenge she faces, and to know that she has a community of sisters out there, cheering her on to walk proudly and step into her greatness.

That is what Clairelle has done for me.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Arizona offers so many wonderful places to visit!

At the top of my list is the Phoenix Desert Botanical Garden. Especially, when the wild flowers are in bloom and temperatures aren’t too steep, it serves as a perfect backdrop for the many art shows and musical performances hosted there.

The District at Tempe Marketplace is a wonderful spot for tasty cuisines and drinks, shopping, catching a movie, or even playing games and salsa dancing. Rolling Rack Boutique is one of my favorite places for really dazzling, handmade clothes!

Pure Juice N’ Joy Juice Bar in Tempe offers the most delicious fresh-squeezed juices. The flavor combinations are unique and their healthy drinks are just the perfect, natural power-up for a busy day.

Caribbean Palm Restaurant and Bar serves up delicious, traditional Caribbean dishes, so when I’m missing the flavors of home and not in the mood to cook, it’s my go to spot!

For an upscale evening out, there is no better spot than an outdoor table overlooking the valley at the Top of the Rock Restaurant at the Marriott Buttes Resort. The service is excellent and the food is always 5-stars!

I have a deep appreciation for the performing arts, so I recommend shows at Chandler Center for the Arts, Tempe Center for the Arts, and ASU Gammage. There is always amazing talent on display!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have been very fortunate to work with Retail, Arts, Innovation & Livability Community Development Corporation (RAIL CDC), based in Mesa. Their expert team of professional consultants has supported my business tremendously, which I am incredibly grateful for.

Website: https://clairelle.com

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

Image Credits
Blake, Arli. Photographed at Clairelle headquarters in Arizona.

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona 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.