Meet Our Family
We live on ten acres in rural Minnesota, where we grow, harvest, learn, bake, cook, and fully embrace our wellness-focused, active lifestyle. We’re gardeners, nature lovers, adventure seekers, and everyday explorers—tending fruit orchards, bees, goats, chickens, gardens, our farm cat, and a peaceful pond that brings us together. Whether we’re hiking through nearby woods, paddling quiet waters, birdwatching, foraging for wild plants, or discovering new trails, our family adventures are always hands-on and filled with curiosity. Our products are made to keep up with these moments, supporting life in motion while connecting you to the natural world around you.
From a young age, our kids have learned the benefits of herbs—not just for daily support or during illness, but as part of a deeper connection to the earth. They’ve learned to recognize wild plants, forage safely, and understand how each herb grows and works in harmony with its environment. Now they reach for herbs on their own, acting as our biggest fans and most honest testers—constantly inspiring us with fresh ideas, feedback, and what’s “in.”
Thank you for being part of this journey with us—whether in your own backyard, on a trail, or in a quiet moment at home. We’re so grateful to share it with you.
Meet the Founder: Melissa Kruse
I’m an herbalist, wellness enthusiast, yoga lover, lifelong learner, adventure seeker, and nature devotee. For nearly 20 years, I’ve been growing herbs, studying their healing gifts, and creating wellness products that help people feel confident and comfortable in their own skin. Connecting with customers at shows and markets—and hearing how our products bring comfort, relief, and joy—inspires me to keep creating, learning, and sharing.
My products are a form of art. Each formula is crafted with intention, pairing specific herbs with different skin types to restore balance and promote healthy, radiant skin. Inspiration comes from the vibrant colors, scents, and properties found in my garden, and I’m only satisfied once each product feels and smells just right.
Whether I’m foraging in the woods, hiking mountain trails, or flowing through yoga, I’m always looking for ways to bring the natural world into everyday care. YULA is made to nourish your skin, support your wellness journey, and accompany you on the life you love. I’m grateful to share my creativity and passion through every product I make.
Meet the Co-Founder: John Kruse
I’m a creator at heart, drawn to art, music, nature, and the joy of building things that work. I craft our soap, design our labels, build the equipment we use, and even built the very space where it all comes together. Soap wasn’t always my passion, but through experimentation, creativity, and a love for making things work, I’ve come to enjoy it—and to make it consistently high-quality and efficient.
Beyond soap, I’m a lover of adventure. We spend our lives exploring the outdoors, embracing challenges, and designing a life we truly love.