An Inspired Chat with Wendy Kushel of Bluffton

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Wendy Kushel. Check out our conversation below.

Wendy, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about your customers?
Customers know what they want-they know what they like and they love to tell you what that is. I love to hear their ideas and I can tell you that slot of my products and even some of their names come from customer’s suggestions. I am open to all ideas coming at me -and nothing is is a stupid idea- I’m open to hearing it all.. you never know what will be the winning ticket

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Wendy Kushel, founder of Wendala’s® LowCountry Sugar Scrub. What started as a simple coconut oil and sugar mix in my kitchen has grown into a fast-scaling skincare brand with products now landing in major retailers like Walmart. Our scrubs are playful, effective, and rooted in the idea that “Your Skin Will Feel Delicious.”

What makes Wendala’s unique is the blend of function and fun—every scrub is designed not only to leave skin silky smooth, but also to spark a smile with cheeky names, bold packaging, and scents inspired by the beachy Lowcountry lifestyle. My background as a stand-up comedian and wine sales pro shapes everything we do—mixing grit, humor, and sensory detail into every jar.

Right now, we’re expanding nationally, preparing for Target and Whole Foods, and scaling with manufacturers to meet demand. At its heart, Wendala’s is more than skincare—it’s about confidence, joy, and proving that with a little grit (and a lot of sugar), you can build something beautiful.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
I’ve been most influenced by successful entrepreneurs like Jamie Kern Lima, Sara Blakely, and Barbara Corcoran—their stories remind me that grit, work ethic, and persistence are everything. Daymond John’s book The Power of Broke has also been a guide for me; it taught me that not having money can actually be a strength. When resources are tight, you’re forced to get creative, think differently, and find unique ways to push ahead instead of waiting for tomorrow.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be: “Lose your inhibitions. Be bold in your actions and don’t be afraid to stand out.” That fearless mindset has fueled my journey as an entrepreneur—helping me take risks, embrace challenges, and build Wendala’s Sugar Scrub into a brand that’s as bold and unapologetic as its founder.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m committed to proving that my sugar scrubs are truly the best on the planet. I even started writing that on the labels—and realized it’s the truth. I refuse to compromise my formula just to fit a cosmetic manufacturer’s mold. Instead, I’ll find the right partner who’s willing to be creative and figure it out with me, because I’m in this for the long haul.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I’m absolutely doing what I was born to do. I’m a boss, a leader, a founder, a salesperson, a marketer, and a creative designer—all of those roles add up to what I truly am: an entrepreneur.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://wendalas.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewendala/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lowcountrysugarscrub
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lowcountrysugarscrub/
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@therealwendala?si=z1uZFLO9KfnCenZw