Where it all began!
From Sleep-Deprived Mom to Main Street Mogul
The storefront at 301 Main Street in Ames, IA is home to two distinct yet seamlessly connected business concepts: Life Distilled and Homegrown IA. Both are the brainchildren of Jenny Pollard, an ISU alumna who transitioned from a job in corporate communications to being a prominent downtown entrepreneur.
The foundation for Pollard’s entrepreneurial journey began not in a boardroom, but out of parental necessity. As a sleep-deprived mother of three young boys, Pollard was desperately seeking a natural solution to her children’s sleep struggles. She discovered the therapeutic power of essential oils.
How It All Began
In 2017 Pollard launched Life Distilled as an online Etsy shop and traveling booth. In those days she ran her business out of her dining room. In November 2021, after working in marketing for 13 years at Iowa State University, Jenny opened Life Distilled on the corner of 301 Main Street. The modern-day apothecary features therapeutic-grade essential oils, custom rollers, sprays and salves. Over time this concept expanded to feature house plants, crystals, wellness teas and eco-friendly household goods.
In May 2024 Pollard opened Homegrown IA in a temporary space on Main Street to showcase trendy, high-quality, Iowa-made gifts and apparel. It was at this time, in this location, that LuLu London first made contact with Jenny.
LuLu London made it’s retail debut in Homegrown IA on August 13, 2024 with a display rack on the cash wrap. By the fall Jenny was carrying a spinner rack of our bandanas which has become the standard display for most of our retail accounts.
From Then to Now
In January 2025, Life Distilled and Homegrown IA moved to their current location, combining both stores under one roof. The LuLu Crew was happy to pitch in and help during the store moves.
In May of that year Jenny featured LuLu London as the “Pop-Up” vendor of the month! We displayed multiple racks of merchandise and hosted a VIPP (Very Important Pups & People) event for our best customers!
Today Homegrown IA carries a spinner rack of bandanas, a selection of Mutt Mitts, the Kitty Collection as well as School Spirit bandanas. Jenny now carries the widest assortment of LuLu London product of any retail account.
Deepest Appreciation!
As we look back on how far we have come, we owe a massive, heartfelt THANK YOU to Jenny Pollard and Homegrown IA. What began as a single, modest rack at her sales counter in a temporary space has blossomed into 8 thriving retail accounts across the state of Iowa. Growth is always exciting, but the absolute best part of this entire journey is that we did not just gain an incredible retail partner - we found a good friend!
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