Today we’d like to introduce you to Lindsay Droz Kristi Lord.
Lindsay Droz , we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
L’AVANT Collective began as a deeply personal solution to everyday life for both of us. With kids and pets constantly creating messes, we wanted cleaning products that were safe for our families, highly effective, and beautiful enough to live out on the counter. Our vision was to elevate everyday essentials by combining performance-driven, plant-based formulas with thoughtful design gorgeous scents that made you feel good during chores.
The early days of building the brand were intense and transformative. During our first year, we both stepped away from our full-time careers just as the world shut down. Together we navigated the realities of building a business amid COVID while balancing family life, homeschooling our kids, and the nonstop demands of being home all the time. Building L’AVANT often meant late nights, long days, and learning everything as we went, while pushing forward through uncertainty.
From concept to launch, the journey took far longer than we ever anticipated. What we initially mapped out as a much shorter timeline evolved into a multi-year process involving formulation, packaging, sourcing partners, manufacturing, logistics, and brand development. After three years of persistence, learning, and collaboration, L’AVANT Collective officially launched in December 2020—built on resilience and a commitment to creating products that truly support modern living.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not at all—it’s been a challenging and humbling journey. Nearly every step took more time and effort than we originally planned, and there were plenty of moments when progress felt slower than it should have been. We faced skepticism along the way, constant pressure to do more with limited time, and the need to stretch ourselves into roles and situations that felt unfamiliar and uncomfortable.
What made the difference was having each other. Building this company together meant we were never carrying the weight alone. On the hard days, we were able to lean on one another for perspective, encouragement, and motivation. That partnership—rooted in trust and mutual support—turned the obstacles into growth moments and made the entire journey worthwhile.
As you know, we’re big fans of L’AVANT Collective. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
L’AVANT Collective is a line of high-performing, plant-based cleaning products created for real life—busy homes, kids, pets, and everyday messes. We focus on making products that are safe for use in the home and the environment without compromising on effectiveness, all housed in thoughtfully designed packaging that feels at home on your countertop rather than hidden under the sink.
What we specialize in is bridging the gap between form and function. For a long time, consumers were asked to choose between clean ingredients with low efficacy, or effective formulas that came in uninspired packaging, toxic ingredients, and scents that overpowered. We set out to change that by creating plant-based cleaning essentials that perform at the highest level, smell incredible, and complement modern living spaces. The combination leaves one feeling calm, joy or at peace while caring for their space.
What truly sets us apart is performance. We put an enormous amount of time into formulation, and the results show in how our products are used and loved every day. Hearing from customers who are genuinely surprised by how well our laundry detergent works—or who tell us it’s the first clean-ingredient product they trust for tough stains—never gets old.
Brand-wise, we’re most proud of the trust we’ve built with our customers. They come to us because the products do what they promise, look beautiful in their homes, and make everyday routines feel a little more elevated. We’re especially proud when someone says, “This product brings me so much joy to use.” That’s a win we’ll always celebrate.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
If there’s one thing we’d love to leave readers with, it’s this: every meaningful change starts with a single step. Whether your dream feels big and bold or quiet and personal, taking that first step is what begins to turn it into something real. Clarity often comes through action, not before it.
We also can’t overstate the value of learning from others. Seeking out people who have already walked a similar path—and being open to their experiences, missteps, and advice—can shape your journey in powerful ways. Those conversations offer perspective you simply can’t get on your own, and most people are far more willing to share than you might expect.
Equally important is who you choose to surround yourself with. Building a circle of people who challenge you, support you, and genuinely want to see you grow makes all the difference. When we were preparing to start L’AVANT Collective together, we asked as many founders as possible about their journeys—what worked, what didn’t, and what they wished they had known. That collective wisdom helped us move forward with confidence and intention.
Dreams don’t become reality all at once—they’re built through curiosity, community, and the courage to begin.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lavantcollective.com/
- Instagram: @lavantcollective
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lavantcollective/
