About the Company

Popped.NYC specializes in handmade CBD products, with its flagship offering being a peppermint-scented body butter. The company serves a diverse customer base, with users ranging from people suffering from chronic pain to those with autoimmune diseases. Customers are primarily between the ages of 25-64, with a gender split of 66% female and 33% male or unidentified. Despite facing challenges, including issues with credit card processing and a shift to primarily online sales due to the pandemic, Popped.NYC continues to grow through its small but dedicated team and a strong focus on customer relationships.

Idea Behind Company

Lauren's inspiration for starting Popped.NYC came from her experiences in the retail world and her growing interest in CBD. Initially, she worked in publishing and eventually ventured into owning a retail space that sold handmade, natural products. The discovery of the benefits of CBD and the lack of topical products in the market led her to create a unique CBD body butter. By drawing from her knowledge of natural ingredients and design, Lauren created a product that resonated with consumers looking for a reliable, effective alternative to traditional pain relief methods.

Creating the Company

The creation of Popped.NYC began with Lauren's passion for cannabis and natural products, which she discovered while living in New York. After gaining some initial success selling vape products at a local fair, Lauren decided to pivot and focus on CBD-based products. The body butter formula was initially found online and refined by Lauren until it met her standards. To stand out in a crowded market, she chose eco-friendly packaging—hexagonal jars that complemented the product’s natural feel. All of this was self-funded from her previous sales, as she looked to keep costs low while learning more about the CBD space.

Launching the Business

Popped.NYC’s launch was a slow, gradual process. Lauren didn't rush the business's debut but instead took time to perfect the website, product images, and copywriting. With limited funds, the business started through in-person sales at events like the Hester Street Fair, where Lauren could engage directly with customers and receive immediate feedback. This approach not only helped Lauren validate her product but also created meaningful connections with early adopters. Even as she transitioned to online sales, personalized customer service remained a cornerstone of her brand’s strategy.

Earnings

Popped.NYC has had fluctuating earnings, with monthly revenues reaching as high as $20,000 but also dipping below $2,000 due to setbacks like losing a credit card processor and COVID-related retail closures. Despite these challenges, Lauren remains optimistic, focusing on long-term growth strategies like SEO, email marketing, and wholesale expansion. The business is currently navigating a period of rebuilding, with investments in content, marketing, and hiring new talent to support growth. The goal is to reach $10,000+ in monthly online sales and expand the brand’s footprint in the wellness space.