Meet Shelby Cook | Corporate Wellness Expert & Clinical Therapist

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

Hi Shelby, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I started my own business because I needed flexibility in my work hours. I was a full-time graduate student at The Ohio State University and spent most of my time going to classes and completing internship hours for my degree. I needed additional income to make ends meet, and the only way I could feasibly do that was to start my own business. This planted the seed for entrepreneurship, and I have created two other companies since then. I have grown to absolutely love being a business owner, and I can’t imagine doing anything else. Bee Kind Boutique has become a hobby of mine and helps fill my need to create. I spend most of my time training new psychotherapists how to be therapists at Cook Counseling and Consulting Inc.

What should our readers know about your business?
Bee Kind Boutique LLC was founded on the principles of sustainability and eco-friendliness. What set us apart from others was our unique approach to gifit giving for mamas and babies and our unwavering commitment to environmental conservation.

Our proudest achievement was witnessing the positive response from customers who shared our passion for sustainable living. It was heartwarming to see individuals make conscious choices to reduce their ecological footprint by supporting our brand.

Getting to where we were business-wise was not easy. As a young graduate student with limited experience, I faced various challenges. Securing funding and navigating the legal and regulatory aspects of starting a business were initial hurdles. Additionally, marketing and establishing brand recognition required significant effort and resources.

To overcome these challenges, I remained determined and open to learning. I sought advice from mentors and industry experts, adjusted our business plan when necessary, and continuously refined our marketing strategies based on customer feedback. Adapting to market trends and staying innovative were crucial for our success.

The most significant lesson learned along the way was that a genuine commitment to a cause can resonate with customers and foster loyalty. People appreciate businesses that stand for more than just profit. Building a brand that authentically reflects your values and vision is a powerful tool for success.

In sharing our story, we want the world to know that it’s possible to turn a passion for sustainability into a thriving business. We hope to inspire others to embark on similar journeys, making a positive impact on the planet while offering innovative, eco-friendly products. Our message is that small businesses can play a significant role in environmental conservation, and consumer choices can drive positive change.

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.

If I were planning a week-long trip to Pickerington, Ohio, to show my best friend the best time ever, I would create an itinerary that combines local charm, good food, outdoor adventures, and entertainment. Here’s a sample itinerary:

Day 1: Welcome to Pickerington

Morning: Start the trip with breakfast at the locally loved Porter’s Coffee House.
Afternoon: Visit the Pickerington Ponds Metro Park for a leisurely nature walk and birdwatching. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the serene environment.
Evening: Have dinner at A&J Wingburger where their eclectic menu has something for everyone.

Day 2: Explore the Arts and Culture

Morning: Head to the Ohio Glass Museum in nearby Lancaster, which showcases beautiful glass art and has interactive exhibits.
Afternoon: Have lunch at a local favorite, Cherry Street Pub.
Evening: Return to Pickerington and explore the local arts scene at the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, which features a diverse collection of motorcycles and memorabilia.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures

Morning: Enjoy a day at the Fairfield County Fairgrounds, where you can explore the Pickerington Antique and Craft Show (if it aligns with your visit dates).
Afternoon: Experience the thrill of ziplining at Hocking Hills Canopy Tours, located a short drive away.
Evening: Have a picnic dinner at Hocking Hills State Park and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Day 4: Discover Local History

Morning: Visit the former home of William Tecumseh Sherman which is now a museum, as well as the Georgian Museum, both locate in Lancaster.
Afternoon: Have a bite to eat and a coffee at L-City Coffee+ in Lancaster.
Evening: Explore the Pickerington-Violet Township Historical Museum to learn more about the local history and heritage.

Day 5: Relax and Unwind

Morning: Take a day trip to nearby Buckeye Lake for some relaxation by the water. You can rent a boat or simply enjoy the beach.
Afternoon: Grab a lakeside lunch at one of the local lakeside restaurants like Papa Boo’s or The Beacon.
Evening: Return to Pickerington and spend the evening at Sycamore Creek Park, perfect for a leisurely stroll and a quiet dinner.

Day 6: Local Dining and Nightlife

Morning: Start your day with breakfast at Porter’s Coffee House.
Afternoon: Explore the local shops and boutiques in the area in downtown Pickerington.
Evening: Enjoy a class and activity at AR Workshop.

Day 7: Farewell Day

This itinerary combines a mix of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and local dining options to provide a well-rounded and enjoyable week in Pickerington, Ohio. Of course, depending on your and your friend’s interests, you can adjust the activities and places to visit accordingly.

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 shoutout goes to my partner, Jeremy Davis, for his unwavering support of all of my business ideas and ventures.

Website: beekindboutique.etsy.com

Instagram: @beekindboutique

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelby-cook/

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

Other: www.beekindbaby.com

Image Credits
Not applicable. All photos were taken and rendered myself.