2024 Renegade Craft Tour! →

Renegade Craft Fair

May 10, 2016

Fortitude Provisions

Maker Spotlight

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Ray Delgadillo created Fortitude Provisions from a simple idea to foster the connection between man and nature.”  Based on traditional botanical recipes, this Austin-based apothecary provides products full of nourishment and free of chemicals.

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Where did your business name come from? Is there an interesting history behind it?

When I was in college, I made a woodworking kit titled “Fortitudewhich was inspired by George Nakashima’s teachings of respecting the life of a tree. After I started exploring natural perfumery, the same concept – of respect and transformation – came up again, so “Fortitude” seemed like the obvious choice.

Have you always been passionate about design?

I’ve always been a visual person and knew I wanted to do something creative as a career … however I never anticipated using scents as a creative output.

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When/Why did you start working in this particular craft/field?

I come from a family that uses natural remedies for everything – from honey for burns, to lemongrass tea for stomach aches – so I have always seen nature as a source of healing and fascination. After college while I was looking for a job (think lots of free time), I bought a book on natural perfumery and started buying all sorts of essential oils and botanicals. The process was fascinating to me, and I haven’t stopped ever since!

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What do you think sets your designs  apart from others?

Rather than making traditional perfumes – where it is hard to pull apart individual components – I like to focus on single aromas and enhance them using complementary notes. I really enjoy knowing getting to know each note, and I think my work reflects that.

My skin care products were really designed for myself. I have super sensitive skin, so I try to keep the ingredient list as minimal as possible and use gentle formulations.

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Have you had any major failures? If so, what were some important insights gained?

Well, they say it takes 10,000 hours of practice to become a master, and I have found perfumery to be no exception. When I first started, every product was unsuccessful, but I suppose I’m rather resilient to failure (thanks design school!). The more I learn, read, and experiment, the better my work has gotten – it’s all about pushing through the vulnerability and building on progress.  

Have you sacrificed anything to create your business? If so, what was it, and do you have any regrets?

I have a full-time job as a designer, so I rarely have free time now days. Every second outside of work is spent either making products, or catching up with life. It’s a sacrifice, but I think it’s worth it because I know I’m working towards something bigger.

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What has been your proudest/favorite moment since creating your business?

A couple of days ago, a friend went to see a house for lease and the tenants had one of my botanical sprays sitting around. It may sound silly, but it’s little stories like that which make it all worth it. I enjoy having these little connections with people.

How does the city you live in influence your work?

Austin is a city full of artists and entrepreneurs, so seeing success around me was definitely encouraging when I first started. Being around so many makers is also great for collaborations! Our newest candle is a team effort with Austin ceramic studio Exposition Goods and we loved getting to creative a fully-custom porcelain tumbler.

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What are some tips or suggestions you’d like to offer to fellow makers?

Don’t get discouraged! It can be tough to put yourself out there – especially if you’ve worked hard and are proud of your work – but once you push through the vulnerability, it’s very exciting.

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All things Fortitude Provisions:

Website

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