In just a few short years, Karen Tappin Saunderson has gone from Wall Street research analyst to the creator of the highly successful beauty line “Karen’s Body Beautiful.” Her products are natural, sweet smelling and luxurious. Karen says the journey to get here wasn’t easy, but it was certainly worthwhile.
“Teaching and working in finance were all part of the path I needed to take to fulfill my dream,” says Saunderson. “I realized that I wanted to be an entrepreneur when I was 15, interning at one of the top corporate law firms in Manhattan. After shadowing one of the partners, I realized that if I was going to work that hard I was going to work for myself. The most rewarding part of owning KBB? Karen says, being in control of her income, time and workplace – other words, her destiny.
NewNaturalista: How long did it take you to find the right combination of natural ingredients?
Karen: It took me a few months to perfect the recipes that I use to create my products and it only makes sense to use natural ingredients. Just as you eat your fruits and veggies to maintain good health, the same concept is true of taking care of your external beauty. Your hair and skin benefit tremendously from the inherent nutrients nature has to offer.
NewNaturalista: Have you incorporated the natural lifestyle in other parts of your life? 
Karen: Researching and studying the ingredients used to make skin care products has made me scrutinize anything that has a label on it. I probably spend as much time reading labels in the supermarket as I do shopping for the food. I never just throw anything in my shopping cart.
NewNaturalista: I learned about your store and product line through the web. Describe how effective new media has been in getting exposure for your line? (ex. YouTube reviews, Tweets, Blogs)
Karen: Social media, blogs and message boards have been invaluable to the success of Karen’s Body Beautiful, as it makes word of mouth exponentially effective. Allowing users to broadcast their experience with my products is the most impressive way of convincing others to take the plunge. I have a few customers who are avid YouTubers that have shopped in my store, and while they’re here other customers recognize them.
Karen is offering newnaturalista readers 10% off purchases of $25 or more. Click on karensbodybeautiful.com and use the code below before checking out!
Coupon Code: Naturalista
Expiration Date: March 10th, 2010
KBB Storefront in Brooklyn, NY
6 comments
Amina says:
Feb 10, 2010
YAY!!
I am a huge fan of KBB and Karen inspires us all to work hard, be perseverant and follow our dreams
msalkapone says:
Feb 10, 2010
I am loving my KBB hair & body products. I have 4a/4b thick natural hair. I try other natural lines BUT always come back to hers. LOVE it, Who says dreams cant come true?? Keep up the great work Karen you have some great products..NOW, its time for me to plan a trip to her store..
In any given week my hubby hears: I want to order some of Karen’s Body Beautiful products. They are not only for me BUT for my kids as well. They love smelling them. Mommy can I smell it.. Love it- Keep up the great work..
Tonya says:
Feb 10, 2010
I agree with both of you ladies! I tried the aromatherapy Luscious Locks Hair Mask today and during my business meeting later in the day I kept glancing at my hair in the mirror and smiling! (:)
It was an honor featuring Karen – and I look forward to visiting the store too!
Tonya, NewNaturalista
Sabbio says:
Feb 11, 2010
Really interesting interview! Such a great story and involvment
Karen Tappin Saunderson says:
Feb 11, 2010
Thanks Tonya you have a fabulous site. Hope you’re enjoying your products!
Zana says:
Feb 16, 2010
I love how you add elegance and style to all things natural…plus your wonderful homemade remedies like the Eczema Ointment are a godsend! Thank you Karen!