HerStory | Josephine: My Journey with ILO
SKINCARE + CANDLES
Josephine
Hello, I’m Josephine Dizon, creator and owner of ILO Mind and Body. My business was born from something simple but deeply personal: wanting the best for my children. As a new mom, I was constantly worried about the lotions and soaps being used on their delicate skin. I wanted products that were safe, natural, and free from the synthetic preservatives and chemicals I couldn’t even pronounce.
When I couldn’t find what I was looking for, I decided to make my own. I poured myself into research, studying ingredients, testing combinations, and learning what truly nourished skin without toxins. In the process, I discovered not just solutions for my family, but a passion I didn’t realize I had.
Back in 2008, I had also made the decision to be a full-time stay-at-home mom. As much as I loved that role, I wanted to contribute financially and keep a creative outlet for myself. That’s when the idea took shape: I would create skincare that was fun, safe, and affordable products I would trust on my kids, and eventually, share with others. That dream became ILO Mind and Body.
ILO holds many meanings. In Finnish, it means bliss. It’s also the name of the restaurant where I met my husband in New York so it carries a very personal connection to love and beginnings. Over time, I expanded it into an acronym: Illuminate Life Organically. For me, that phrase captures exactly what I want my business to bring: joy in the little things, made with intention and care.
I started small, making preservative-free body butters, scrubs, and soaps. I played with themes like honeybees, sweet treats, whimsical designs that made self-care fun while still being gentle on the skin. I gave them as gifts, and to my surprise, family and friends fell in love with them. They told me I needed to share my creations more widely. With their encouragement, I began selling at craft shows and, eventually, online through Etsy in 2019.
What started as a small side hustle has grown into something much bigger. Today, I create themed personal care gifts and party favors for all kinds of occasions: birthdays, baby showers, bridal parties, weddings, even corporate events. There is something incredibly special about knowing that my work travels to so many milestones in people’s lives. It’s an honor to think that something I made with my own hands brings joy to someone celebrating across the country or even the world.
One of my proudest moments came recently, when I was chosen to create giveaways for the grand opening of the Broadway musical Just In Time, starring Jonathan Groff. To have my products featured at such a major event, alongside such talent, felt surreal. It was proof that even from a kitchen experiment years ago, this business has blossomed into something with reach and meaning far beyond what I imagined.
“Always seize the opportunity.”
At the heart of everything, my greatest inspiration has always been my children. They are the reason I strive to be better; not just as a mom, but as a business owner, a partner, and a friend. Every choice I make, every leap of faith, I know they are watching. And I want them to see what it looks like to follow a dream with courage and persistence.
Like any journey, mine hasn’t been without doubts. There were moments when I wondered if I could balance motherhood, family life, and business. There were people who doubted whether this was worth pursuing. But I kept going, because I trusted the feeling in my gut that told me this work mattered.
If I could go back and tell my younger self anything, it would be this: Don’t be afraid to chase your dreams, and don’t listen to those who tell you not to. Your intuition is stronger than you think.
As for what’s next—I’ve been thinking about expanding my brand through YouTube. It’s still an idea in motion, but I’m excited about the possibility of sharing my creations, my process, and the story behind ILO with an even wider community.
And speaking of community, ILO Mind and Body has always had a home in Sis Circle. I’ve loved curating custom soaps, candles, body butters, and more for our retreats, summits, and panels. Seeing the way women light up when they receive these kits, knowing they’re taking home a little moment of care for themselves, is one of my greatest joys. Our community truly loves these products and I love being part of that circle of connection.
“People may not remember exactly what you said or did, but they will always remember how you made them feel.”
That is the heartbeat of ILO Mind and Body. Through every product, I hope to create not just skincare, but moments of joy, care, and connection—little reminders that bliss can be found in the everyday.
Closing Reflection
Josephine’s story is about creativity rooted in love—love for her children, for her craft, and for the people whose lives her products touch. From late nights of research to Broadway openings to the heart of Sis Circle, her journey proves that listening to your intuition and chasing your dreams can transform not only your own life, but also the lives of those around you. In the spirit of HerStory, she shows us how even small acts of care can illuminate the world.