Meet The Makers Mini Interview: UNITED & FREE

Poco local Kaleena Morrison is the sister half of the brother and sister duo who founded the gorgeous hair and skincare line, UNITED & FREE. We’re so happy she found some time to answer our Mini Interview questions! This clean, green line is super popular with our customers and our staff, and it’s no wonder why: not only is it locally made, cruelty-free, and free from harsh chemicals, it smells and feels amazing. And it really, really works! We're very excited to learn a little more about her and her awesome products, and we're even more excited to share this Mini Interview with you!

UNITED & FREE Mini Interview

Share your story with us in a 150 words or less.

UNITED & FREE is an award winning unisex, cruelty free hair and skincare line created in Vancouver by my brother, Brandon and myself. We originally started working together in our family business formulating organic ice cream products and desserts with our father in Nova Scotia. Today we’ve taken our love for natural products and turned it into UNITED & FREE Skincare.  By uniting unique botanicals and high end essential oils we’ve created products free from harsh chemicals, animal cruelty and environmental harm. 

Getting from an idea to a small business is a lot of work! When did it first sink in for you that ‘this is really happening’?

We launched UNITED & FREE at “The Know Show” at the Vancouver Convention center in 2016. We were so nervous to be among Herschel, Adidas, Native Shoes etc. but when we saw our booth in the front entrance of the Vancouver Convention Center we realized that we did it! The months of work we put into planning for the event had come together. We even onboarded our first retailers through the event.

Out of all your products, which is your personal favourite and why? 

I love the Balance facial cleanser. I used to suffer from a very bad case of cystic acne so developing a gentle face wash that works well for all skin types was very important to me. I use the face cleanser daily, keeping my skins pH balanced and well-kept.

What motivates you on a day-to-day basis? 

Our goal is to bring our products to people all over the world, so I feel that’s a big motivation. I also have a 6-year-old daughter who is really inspired by what I do. It’s important for me to show up everyday and set an example that following your dreams is not only important but necessary.

What’s your favourite thing about the town or city you live in? 

I’m new to Coquitlam, but I’ve recently become a fan of the Coquitlam Crunch. I love how close to nature I feel living here. It’s a change of pace from living in the city.

Describe your ideal Sunday morning, including your breakfast. 

I love sleeping in on Sundays but its rare with a 6-year-old. We may host a Sunday brunch or cook breakfast on our own as a family. Sunday staples in our house include vegan waffles with organic maple syrup and berry smoothies. After breakfast we usually seek out a local Farmer’s Market or do an outdoor activity.

What are your personal top three tips for feeling awesome?
 
Eating properly, mainly a plant-based diet.
Sticking to my non-negotiables.
Spending time with my family and friends and laughing as hard as I possibly can.

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