We talk to Sarah Kirkland, a kiwi business woman with a passion for herbs and natural remedies. She's managing director of the Herb Farm, a Manawatu based business that creates natural beauty products and remedies...

Name: Sarah Kirkland
Age: 26
Job: Managing Director – The Herb Farm

Where did the inspiration come from for your company? What’s the story behind it?
My mum, Lynn, wanted to find natural alternatives for her family and this led to her completing a herbal diploma in 1990. She had the vision for the Herb Farm and the business began in 1993. I grew up using herbs and natural remedies on myself, my horses and pets.  I started modelling at 19 years old and travelled and worked overseas as a model for 3 years. I returned to New Zealand and completed a Business Studies Degree and saw the growth potential in our natural products and the opportunity to help people make choices that would benefit their health and lives. This inspired me to buy into the business 18 months ago.

Why would I want to trade places with you? What are the best things about your life?
I feel very lucky to have been able to travel and see the world and then come back and have the opportunity to work in a business that I believe in and have a passion for. I also have a wonderful supportive family and partner, have a gorgeous puppy and home and spend each day doing something I enjoy!

Where do you see yourself in the future?
I see myself at the Herb Farm continuing to grow the business and educating people about the choices they have with what they put on their bodies and the benefits of natural products. And balancing this with kids and more travel one day!

What’s the best decision you’ve made in business?
The best decision I made was to re-brand our product range. It was time for a fresh modern look for the products and the herb farm and it has paid off!

And the worst?
I haven’t made any terrible business decisions but I believe that everything happens for a reason and any challenges that come up have valuable lessons in them and more often than not a silver lining!

Which nzgirl most inspires/inspired you?
My mum! I admire her hard work and strong ethics that led her to have the vision for the Herb Farm and then run the business almost single-handedly for 13 years. She is caring and creative and is always there to support and encourage me.

What are three important lessons you’ve learnt along the way?

Value your customers and your employees – these are the most important people to your business.

Any advice for nzgirls?
It is a wonderful thing to be able to work in a business that you have a passion for and believe in. If you have a passion or a dream go for it, believe in yourself and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. The most important things in life are happiness and health. Make choices that encourage both of these, and if you can do something in your life that helps other people and the planet even better!