Meet LuluShells
FOUNDED BY
THE INTERVIEW
Written by Boston Women’s Market & Michelle Sudit and Luisa O’Donnell
Boston Women’s Market: Can you tell us a bit about what led you to begin your journey with your business? Was there an aha! Moment?
Michelle & Luisa: During the first year of COVID, I started growing succulents at home. At first, it was just a hobby — I became fascinated with propagation, and it quickly turned into an obsession. By spring, I had so many extras that I began selling them on Facebook Marketplace. By fall, I had hundreds of plants, so I joined Arlington Town Day. That experience was my “aha” moment — I realized this could be more than just a pastime, it could grow into a real business.
BWM: Do you have a favorite moment so far with your business?
Michelle & Luisa: Almost a year ago now, we accepted an invitation to participate in the first Holiday Sip and Shop market of a local business. It was our first time partnering in what became LuluShells. We had such a great time working together, laughing and chatting with customers of all ages, sharing with them our products and our stories. That evening was a huge success as the start of a wonderful journey together. We have never looked back.
BWM: How have you continued to manage the growth of your business while also finding time and ways to invest in yourself?
Michelle & Luisa: While it is difficult at times to juggle family and work, we have been mindful to respect our individual schedules as we are at very different stages of life. A young family with little kids has very different priorities than that of an empty nest family. The process of figuring out how to work together is ongoing and always needs to be an open conversation. Along the way, mahjong, pickleball, bridge and a good bottle of wine have smoothed the way.
BWM: How did you and your partner meet and realize you had this business opportunity in common?
Michelle & Luisa: A few years back, we became fast friends on the pickleball courts of Needham MA. It was not until later that we realized we shared a passion for sea shells, beaches and art. We immediately discussed our artistic process, finding a lot of common ground, and decided right away to join forces rather than to compete against each other. Competition was left for the pickleball court!! Game on!
BWM: A mentor can play an integral role in someone’s career progression and personal growth. Did you have a mentor that influenced where you are today?
Michelle & Luisa: Throughout our lives, we were both surrounded by creative, dynamic women who inspired us with their hard work and unique visions. Growing up in different parts of the world, we later came together and found a common passion for art and for personal expression, which we channeled into our LuluShells.
BWM: What aspects of your work do you enjoy the most?
Michelle & Luisa: Going to the beach, listening to the waves and seeing the natural beauty of the shells we find always rings us immense joy. From the moment we find the shells, clean them, prep them, and create our LuluShells with them, we thoroughly enjoy the artistic process. When we finally get the opportunity to chat with customers and clients, it brings the whole experience full circle for us.
