Friends and neighbors know Lauren Suarez de Brunell as a “walking infomercial.” For years, she enjoyed sharing with friends, family, and her yoga students about the everyday things and products that she used, and it was normal for her to be stopped and asked, “Where did you get that?’ or ‘What product do you use for X? People liked her genuine warmth and style, but Lauren was not your typical “Momfluencer.” She had a special gift: an instinctual knack for finding hidden gem products.
Lauren started to ruminate on the idea of opening her own business when the concept came to her: What if she combined her skills and passion as a curator of organic, clean, and natural health, beauty, and wellness products, as well as unique accessories? She imagined selling these items in a modern, French Quarter-styled brick-and-mortar apothecary store that told a unique brand story: her vision of seeing the beauty in everyday things, inspired by growing up in Louisiana, her Venezuelan heritage, travels, and cultural explorations.
In January 2024, Lauren searched for resources and assistance to build her dream business. She discovered the Illinois SBDC at COD where David Lezondra became her assigned advisor. David assisted Lauren in further developing her ideas and guided her to think more deeply about several critical elements of her business planning.
After a few months of collaborating, Lauren had a viable business plan with solid
financial projections. David then warm-transferred Lauren to a local bank with a track
record of helping women and minority-owned startups through an SBA lending program.
By June, Lauren successfully secured her SBA loan which made it possible to secure
a store location in Clarendon Hills and begin with the necessary construction. This
September, Lauren held the grand opening for her store, La Vie En Rose Apothecary.
Her amazing journey from walking infomercial to business owner was featured as local
news in the Chicago Tribune.
Congratulations Lauren!
The SBDC is such a fantastic resource. David was instrumental in helping me prepare my business plan and financial projections. I wouldn't have arrived where I am without David's help.
Lauren Suarez de BrunellLa Vie En Rose Apothecary
Contact Information
Business Development Center
535 Duane Street, Office 233
Glen Ellyn IL 60137
(630) 942-2600
Email: bdc@cod.edu
Regular Hours of Operation
Monday to Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Map and Directions