ABOUT US

My journey began in 1990 when I graduated from Illinois State University with a bachelors degree in Social Work.  I moved to Phoenix, Az in 1996 to pursue my masters degree, but I got a little side tracked and proceeded to get married and started a family instead. I am the mother of 2 wonderful and happy children who are now teenagers, yikes!  And the mommy to a dog and several cats. During the years that my kids were young, along with being a stay at home mom, I pursued many other interests. I first became certified in a Lifestyles and Weight Management program, from there I acquired a Personal Trainer certification. Then over the next few years I completed an Interior Design program and  I received a certification in Feng Shui.  Lastly I attended and completed a 1st degree Reiki certification program.  All of these accomplishments have 1 thing in common, they are all about creating a healthy lifestyle either through health and fitness or by setting up a healthy and functional living space. In addition to these certifications I have read many books on Feng Shui, Vastu, fitness, Spirituality and aromatherapy. I am also an avid fitness fanatic and practiced kick boxing and Kundalini and Vinyasa yoga for 7+ years. I have run several  5k races and completed 2 half marathons.  I still try to get in a bike ride everyday and hit the weights twice a week. 

I did work as a personal trainer for several years and  as an interior designer using Feng Shui.  In 2009 I started my own online boutique for children and babies.  My daughter who was 10 at the time taught me to sew, so I started sewing and embroidering tote bags and clothing  for girls.  My boutique still exists today and is named Sassy Kat Boutique.  After reading about all the chemicals in our skincare products I wanted to do something to support a positive change.  So in May of 2013 I created an all natural skincare line using only natural and organic ingredients.  I wanted to make products from simple, natural  ingredients that were cruelty free and good for your skin. Thus Playa Blu was born.  I can honestly say I use all of my own products and have stopped buying many of the products I have used in the past.  I also have been buying only natural, vegan and cruelty free make up and cosmetics. 

This blog has come together as a culmination of all of my interests and hobbies. I plan on sharing the valuable knowledge that I have gained over the years from my different pursuits. So please follow me on this continued journey and we will see where it takes us.

Marnie Gaertner