Karma Wellness Kitchen
Introducing Vinita Parekh from Farmington Hills, Michigan. She is the owner of Karma Wellness Kitchen Here are three unique qualities about Vinita:
“My eagerness to venture beyond my comfort zone and embrace novel experiences.”
“Listening to customer experiences at my local farmers' market.”
“My passion for exploring the world through travel and savoring diverse cuisines.”
Learn more about Vinita and Karma Wellness Kitchen below:
Tell us about your personal wellness journey. What led you to where you are now?
“I embarked on my wellness journey during my school days in Pune, India, where I enthusiastically participated in Surya Namaskar and Yoga competitions. I also found joy in playing field hockey, maintaining an active lifestyle throughout my youth. Guided by revered gurus in India, I honed my skills in pranayama, yoga and meditation, equipping myself with valuable tools to navigate life's challenges.
Upon my relocation to the United States, I was fortunate to cross paths with dedicated yoga instructors who shared my passion for this ancient discipline. As time passed, my wellness journey evolved to place greater emphasis on mental well-being, starting with conscientious and nutritious eating habits. This new focus seamlessly complemented my ongoing commitment to an active and balanced lifestyle.”
How did you come up with the idea for your business?
“When my son moved to college in California. He wanted to eat plant-based meals that were clean and healthy. So, I started shipping them in brown bags that he could make in his tiny dorm room. These comforting meals reminded him of his home away from home and this is the genesis of Karma Wellness Kitchen.”
How did you start your business?
“Consumers have limited access to the ingredients to cook a healthy and easy wholesome plant-based meal. Or they don’t know where to start. Or how to use them. This leads to unnecessary food wastage. Recognizing this issue, I was inspired to launch our business, offering convenient meal kits and snacks as a solution. Our mission is to provide plant-based eating options using real ingredients that are nutritious, flavorful, and convenient for our customers.”
Knowing what you know now, is there anything you would have done differently when you were first starting out?
“Initially, I would have developed a product that customers could easily relate to or were already familiar with to make that initial connection.”
What is the best business advice you've ever been given?
“The most valuable advice is centered around effective financial management and a deep understanding of your customer base.”
How do you persevere in challenging times?
“I find it beneficial to be retrospective and analyze what went wrong, often revisiting my kitchen whiteboard to explore alternative approaches. Seeking guidance from my mentors is another valuable step, and my faith and spiritual practice serve as guiding lights during these times.”
What impact do you want your business to have?
“At Karma, we want to establish a future where sustainable, nutritious food is easily accessible and contributes positively to our well-being and protecting our planet.”
What knowledge would you share with someone who wants to become an entrepreneur of a wellness business?
“I want to emphasize that this endeavor is a 24/7 commitment. In addition to passion, it requires adaptability to meet customer needs, effective financial management, and the development of a solid business plan.”
What do you do for personal and professional development?
“I am fortunate to have business mentors who provide valuable guidance. I also actively participate in events and trade shows, and I keep myself informed by reading trade magazines, LinkedIn and blogs.”
What mantra or quote do you live by?
“Simply practice kindness, for what you give comes back around.”
What is your favorite wellness activity or hobby?
“My most cherished pastime involves baking and experimenting with new recipes in my kitchen.”
