In the world of small businesses, there are gems hidden in plain sight, often driven by passionate entrepreneurs who have identified a unique need in their communities. Today, we have the privilege of shining a spotlight on one such business: Midwest Placenta Encapsulation, led by the dedicated Casey Merrell. Midwest Placenta Encapsulation offers a range of services aimed at supporting new mothers during their postpartum journey. We had the opportunity to speak with Casey, the heart and soul behind this business, to learn more about her journey and the services she provides.
The Birth of Midwest Placenta Encapsulation
Midwest Placenta Encapsulation specializes in two primary services: Placenta Encapsulation and Umbilical Cord Keepsakes. Casey shared her inspirational journey of how her business came to be.
“After experiencing (and loving) the benefits of encapsulating my own placenta almost 8 years ago, I was very vocal about placenta encapsulation. Friends and extended family members started asking for me to process their placentas into capsules, and word of mouth started spreading. Soon, I was being contacted by pregnant women whom I didn’t even know to do this process for them. Therefore, I saw there was a need for this service in our area. I was able to form my work-from-home mom business, get all my needed certifications, built a placenta kitchen and processing area in the lower level of our home… and the rest is history.”
Casey’s personal experience and the demand for her services in her community were the driving forces behind the creation of Midwest Placenta Encapsulation.
Setting Midwest Placenta Encapsulation Apart
Midwest Placenta Encapsulation stands out from similar businesses in several ways. Casey explained her unique approach: “Since I do this full time, I am able to offer a lot to mamas and try to make it a whole experience. Most clients opt to see photos of their placenta and their process (no additional fee), and I also record and post processing videos on my social media channels for clients to watch and share if they choose to. I believe I’m also the only one in this area who solely just encapsulates (most are doulas who do it on the side). Therefore, I can pour my heart and soul into encapsulations. I am not a doula who may get stuck at a long birth and not be able to pick up and process right away. I also have a dedicated ‘processing kitchen,’ and I pride myself on NOT using a personal kitchen alongside normal day-to-day life, including meal preparation, family members, pets, kids, etc.”
This level of dedication ensures that the encapsulation process is given the attention and care it deserves, providing peace of mind to expectant mothers.
Another key aspect that sets Midwest Placenta Encapsulation apart is the wide array of options they offer. Casey shared, “For capsules, you can choose raw or TCM. For umbilical cord keepsakes, you can choose natural, gold-dipped, painted, resin-coated. For tree of life prints, I can do natural or various watercolors. Other options I offer for placenta products are tinctures and salves. I also have a shipping program across the entire continental United States, so if you’re not local, I can still process and deliver right to your door.”
This range of choices allows mothers to tailor their experience and keepsakes to their unique preferences.
Training and Expertise
Casey’s extensive training and experience are cornerstones of her business. She has almost 8 years of experience and is a Certified Placenta Encapsulator through Brilliant Birth Academy™. This certification involves comprehensive education, book studies, and exams. She has also completed Biologix OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Training for Placenta Encapsulation Professionals and holds a food handler’s license.
To stay up-to-date with the latest research and trends, Casey participates in ongoing certification and education programs. She also uses social media, including TikTok, to connect with her audience and share valuable information.
Her commitment to ongoing education ensures that she remains up-to-date with the latest industry standards and practices.
Advice for Expectant Mothers
For expectant mothers considering placenta encapsulation, Casey offers valuable advice: “If you’re on the fence about placenta encapsulation, bring your placenta home… once the opportunity is gone, it’s gone. The placenta can be frozen for up to 6 months before encapsulation, and if you start experiencing any symptoms you want to alleviate with placenta encapsulation, you have it! And if you don’t end up encapsulating, you can have it turned into keepsake items or bury it under a special plant in honor of your baby or whatever. It’s yours… BRING IT HOME.”
Overcoming Challenges with Determination
Running a small business while raising four young children is no easy feat, but Casey’s determination and the support of her family have allowed her to overcome these challenges. Most of her work takes place during early mornings, late evenings, or naptime, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to helping mothers in their postpartum journeys.
Casey’s family plays an essential role in her business. Her husband assists with various aspects of the shipping process, and her older children often lend a hand with tasks like stamping envelopes and adding cute stickers to mailers. It’s truly a family affair.
Future Goals
As for the future, Casey has set an inspiring goal: “My current goal is to encapsulate for a client from each of the 50 states using my shipping program (which is slowly growing more and more thanks to TikTok). I have a map started where I mark off each state.”
Empowering Moms, One Placenta at a Time
Midwest Placenta Encapsulation is a shining example of a small business that empowers mothers through wellness and support. With personalized services, a dedication to education, and a commitment to her clients’ needs, Casey has created a business that positively impacts the lives of new mothers and their families. We applaud her passion and dedication to this essential work and look forward to seeing her continue to thrive and grow.
To learn more about Midwest Placenta Encapsulation and the services they offer, visit their website at https://midwestplacentaencapsulation.com/ and follow them on social media: Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.