How Marty Marie Started

 After transitioning from interior design to massage therapy, my company Marty Marie was created by fate.  The year was 2008 and I was living in Pasadena, California. My heat therapy bags (then Wellness Bags) were originally created for massage therapy clients. I started selling them to friends, family, and local boutiques. 

Shortly after I made a connection with Whole Foods. I remember the day so clearly.  It was a warm December day, I stopped by Whole Foods in Pasadena to buy chestnuts for a holiday aroma.  While browsing through Whole Body, I realized my eco "Wellness Bags" would be a good fit. Hand-made with upcycled designer fabrics and each one-of-a-kind. This was the beginning of the local movement.  This was excellent timing. I spoke to the buyer, we set up a meeting, and she introduced my product to the regional buyer. A month later my Wellness Bags were sitting on the shelves. A year later my products were sold in over 30 Whole Foods stores in Southern California, Arizona, and Nevada. My company grew with Whole Foods, we added new products, and expanded into more locations.  I've also joined forces with The Ritz-Carlton, Fred Segal, Yogaworks, Exhale Spa, Planet Blue, Lassen's Natural Foods, The Detox Market, and eco boutiques across the nation.  

In 2015 the name changed to Marty Marie, in honor of my late grandfather Martin Bourassa.  Papa was our favorite guy, a remarkable human being. 

Fast forward to 2017... time to reflect. So, why do I do this? It's hard work and a constant hustle. What I've learned is I love the challenges.  I love marketing. I LOVE creating. And mostly I enjoy the alliances with my buyers, suppliers, and fellow vendors. Grateful for their continued support.   As my company evolves, it will maintain the original values that were set.  Unique eco products hand-made in small batches, with the finest ingredients, and superb customer service.  New products will be released this fall!