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Things I Can't Live Without: Michelle Ebbin

Michelle Ebbin went from masseuse to manufacturer. And she's more relaxed now.

By Amy Keyishian | 
 

Occupation: Founder and owner of Basic Knead, maker of instructional massage products—books, videos, and clothing—for novices. Ebbin sells them through spas and department stores, and at BasicKnead.com.

Annual revenue and employees: $1.5 million; 6.

Age and home: 38; Montecito, Calif.

Magic touch: In 1994, Ebbin was working in Los Angeles as a dancer in hip-hop videos. After taking a massage class for fun, she decided to get certified and start her own one-woman massage business.

Stocking stuffer: If a client had a hangover, Ebbin would rub certain areas of his foot. She showed customers how to practice reflexology at home, but often it didn't take because they couldn't find the pressure points. "My clients would call later to ask, 'Where was that spot again?' she says. So Ebbin created socks with the reflexology pressure points printed on the soles and gave 50 pairs to clients as Christmas gifts. The socks were such a hit that she decided to sell them. Two months later the Los Angeles Times ran a story about the socks, and orders started pouring in.

Helping hands: Ebbin convinced students at UCLA's Anderson School of Management to help her create a business plan in exchange for school credit. And a chance meeting at a trade show led her to friend and mentor Jacquelyn Overcash, owner of Get Fresh skin care products. Overcash introduced Ebbin to sales reps and distributors.

Shiatsu shirt: In 2000, Ebbin quit the masseuse gig to focus on her products. She added a line of massage T-shirts—with pressure points printed on them—in sizes for adults, babies, and dogs.

Things I Can't Live Without

The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook, $35:
"My husband and I entertain on a weekly basis, but I've got a 2-year-old son, so I need to make stuff that's natural and delicious in a hurry. This makes me look like a superstar.

Agape Spoon bathtub, $11,300:
"This two-person bathtub is so sleek and smooth. Not only is it wonderfully roomy, it also looks beautiful and feels decadent.

Living Earth Crafts massage table, $500:
"Not only is this light and easy to transport, it's also covered in ultra-soft fabric. Even before the massage, you've already sunk into a world of comfort.

...and What I Covet

2006 BMW 760Li, $117,400:
"I just rode in one, and I am dizzy with desire for it. The seating is plush, the sound system is perfect. It's like a spa. Shut the door and your worries go away. That's very useful on the freeway.