IN CONVERSATION WITH DANA SANDERS SOUTHER - TERRA

WHY AND WHEN DID YOU START TERRA?

I opened Terra in 2003, so this is our 20th anniversary! Jackson Hole at that time was so tiny and quiet. The area was just beginning to bloom, and locals needed to up their wardrobe game. We were solely clothing collections at the time. It was a purely selfish move…

WHAT HAVE YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGES BEEN?

The biggest challenges here in the beginning were making people feel comfortable with trying new things! Our little town has grown so much recently, but back in the day, we really had to spoon feed our clients and teach them. Luckily, we’ve built an enormous trust over the years, and now our clients eagerly come to us to learn and try and bring all of their friends.

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF WITH TERRA?

I am so proud of our longstanding relationships with our clients. Being a member of a small town means it’s that much more important to lead by example, teach, listen, AND learn ourselves.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE IRENE FORTE SKINCARE?

First and foremost, Irene Forte skincare is EFFECTIVE! It’s also an extraordinarily aesthetic journey from start to finish. One should look forward to the ritual of beauty - the textures, the scents, the smooth applications. This line transports us to a day at the spa. Plus, you emerge looking plump and dewy.

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE SKINCARE TIPS?

  1. Layer moisture.

  2. Select product lines that you look forward to using based upon scents and textures. If it’s stinky, it’s not a pleasurable moment, and your money is wasted if it stays in the jar.

  3. Each line has a star product. Find it and build out from there!

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER ASPIRING FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS?

Be prepared to put in the work, and make sure you find joy in what you do. If you enjoy going to work, I believe you will certainly find success! I always was and continue to be in my shop 5 days a week so I can connect with our clients, understand their needs, and the changes that lead to positive growth.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF?

Relax. Actually, that’s good advice for my old self, too.