Day 10

The Aroma Labs: Healing Turned Into a Business

fter losing her husband, Tanya Thompson began making lotions and scrubs with her daughters as a way to heal. What started in her basement quickly grew into The Aroma Labs — now a multi-city fragrance experience spanning Kalamazoo, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Chicago, and more.

When the chance came to open her first Detroit store, Tanya turned to Michigan Women Forward. An MWF microloan helped her bring that vision to life and continue creating inclusive spaces where anyone can craft a scent that reflects who they are.

“Fragrance is just the medium,” Tanya says. “What we’re really doing is offering connection.”