Meet Denise LaPalm | Founder, L’Beauxtique

We had the good fortune of connecting with Denise LaPalm and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Denise, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I was born in London to hardworking immigrant parents who instilled in me the values of stoicism and practicality. Growing up, I learned the importance of resilience and hard work from a young age. These values gave me the courage to chase the American Dream during the ’90s economic boom. I hit all the milestones—marriage, career success, raising a child—relying heavily on my British “stiff upper lip.”

As life progressed, stress naturally followed. I juggled more responsibilities and missed the early signs my body gave me. It wasn’t until a healing vacation, where I was sitting on a hotel balcony and feeling the trade winds, that I had a spark of inspiration that led me to aromatherapy. That moment of clarity was transformative. I realized that I needed to find a way to manage my stress better. I became certified at the NY Institute of Aromatherapy and started creating blends that supported stress and sleep, inspired by my journey of overcoming burnout.

Success often comes with managing significant challenges. My journey has shaped L’Beauxtique into what it is today—a brand dedicated to helping you find your calm. Through my own experiences, I’ve learned that while stress is inevitable, how we respond to it makes all the difference. This realization inspired me to create products that help address stress and promote well-being. L’Beauxtique is more than a brand; it’s a testament to my journey and a commitment to helping others find calm.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Thank you for this opportunity to share more about L’Beauxtique! I am incredibly grateful. We focus on creating functional scents that help people find calm and balance. What sets us apart is our proprietary blend, which harnesses clinical aromatherapy with intentional ingredients to combat stress and burnout—drawing inspiration from my own journey.

I’m most proud of how our products positively impact people’s lives. Hearing from customers who’ve found relief through our blends is incredibly rewarding and shows the power of holistic wellness. Knowing that something I’ve created helps others find calm and improve their quality of life is truly fulfilling.

The journey to get here has been one of growth and learning. Without a background in beauty or wellness, I had to learn and adapt as I went along. I initially considered private labeling but realized I needed something that reflected my journey and passion. Trusting my instincts and staying true to my vision ensured our blends were effective and luxurious.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is resilience. Taking general advice led to trial and error, wasted resources, and added stress. While guidance can be valuable, you know your business best. Trust your gut. It’s essential to seek advice from those who understand your industry, but ultimately, you need to make decisions that align with your vision and goals.

My main takeaway is that life happens for you, not to you. My experiences with stress and anxiety have shaped who I am and inspired me to create something meaningful. Each journey in life is different, and I’m excited about what the future holds! L’Beauxtique is here to help you find your calm and balance. Stress is part of life, but how we handle it makes all the difference.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If you’re visiting the Chicago area and want to show your best friend a good time, here are some ideas that capture the essence and a taste of the Windy City:
– Millennium Park: See Cloud Gate (The Bean) and Lurie Garden.
– The Art Institute of Chicago: World-class art experience.
– Visit Lincoln Park Zoo and the adjacent Lincoln Park Conservatory.
– The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, Museum of Science and Industry.
– Rent bikes and ride along the Lakefront Trail.
– Shop on the Magnificent Mile and Oak Street.
– Explore West Loop or stroll through Wicker Park.
– Catch a game at Wrigley Field or take a stadium tour.
– Sunset architecture boat tour along the Chicago River.
– El Che Steakhouse & Bar: Modern Argentine cuisine, sexy atmosphere! It is housed in the old Checker Taxi building and is one of my personal favorites.
– Girl & the Goat
– Au Cheval (great atmosphere and burgers)
– The Publican.
– RPM Italian.
– The Aviary (innovative cocktails).

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d love to give a shoutout! My journey wouldn’t have been possible without my parents and husband’s incredible support. My parents’ values laid the foundation for everything I’ve achieved. They have supported every ambitious dream and goal I’ve had—from living in the States with no real family or support network to working three jobs to afford my first apartment and climbing the corporate ladder.

My husband and son have also been my pillars of strength and inspiration. They support me through the almost daily highs and lows of being an entrepreneur while also working full-time. Their unwavering belief in me has been my greatest strength. I’m fortunate to have my family’s love and support to keep me going through the most challenging times.

Website: https://www.lbeauxtique.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lbeauxtique

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lbeauxtique