People make the switch to naturals at different times in their lives. For model/actress/event planner Kandy Johnson (affectionately known at Schmidt’s HQ as Kandy Jo), that switch actually came quite naturally at a really young age. “I’m obsessed with reading labels, reading the news, and staying healthy,” she says.
For someone who’s constantly in front of the camera, natural beauty is something that is of the utmost importance to Kandy. “All of my beauty and health products are natural,” she says. “I’m always teaching my friends the benefits of using more natural products, which has been working because most of my friends are on the same wave.”
Inherently a nature-lover, Kandy shared with us how she lives her natural lifestyle, from daily plant nursing to veganism.
Name: Kandy Johnson
Hometown: Born in Seoul, South Korea; raised in Eugene, Oregon; living in Portland, Oregon
Zodiac: Aries
Instagram: @misskandyjo (Opens in a new window)
Quick: What’s a typical day in the life?
A typical day for me would be having breakfast tea first thing with my roommates, then water my plants, read the news, put on music, and go to work. When I’m not working I am either cooking, eating, meal prepping, reading (currently Sapiens by Yuval Harari), trying to discover new music, or catering to my plants.
That’s a lot of plant care-taking. When did your relationship with plants begin?
I’ve always loved plants and I’m guessing it came from when I was a kid. My family would go camping or hiking and my dad would tell us about the plants. My mom is an exceptional cook and likes talking about the nutritional and medicinal benefits of different herbs. Whenever I’m having a bad day I go to the plant store and usually come home with a new one. It just calms me down and takes my mind off of whatever is stressing me out.
So, what’s your favorite plant?
My favorite is my cucumber plant for pickling. I grew it from a tiny seed many months ago and it’s already produced a bunch of beautiful, delicious, oddly-shaped cucumbers. I also grow herbs like mint and parsley, and tomatoes too. Vegetables require more work and attention than the average house plant. I have to water them first thing in the morning and before I go to sleep. It’s like having a pet.
After you water your plants at night, how do you wind down?
When I get home from work I take a bath and enjoy a glass of red wine (I’m a nighttime bath type of gal), it’s the best way to wind down for sure.
Kandy with her plants.
Photos courtesy of Kandy Johnson
Why do you choose natural products?
It makes me happy to be part of the natural movement, and to support local brands that are good to – and for – the people. The word “natural” to me means being closer to earth and being comfortable in your skin. By using natural products and eating less processed foods, I reduce my carbon footprint and put less chemicals into my body; nature naturally nurtures.
What’s your healthiest habit?
My healthiest habit tends to change frequently, but I’d say the longest running habit I’ve had is not eating meat or most animal byproducts. I’ve been, on average, 80 percent vegan for the last two years, though I have eaten meat recently and I love butter. I definitely prefer being vegan but traveling can make it difficult.
What scents do you love?
I enjoy earthy scents, anything that reminds me of being outdoors, with a touch of floral. My favorite Schmidt’s scent is Earth + Wood, with Jasmine Tea being a runner-up.
Fave person you follow on Insta?
My favorite IG accounts are @SarahBahbah (Opens in a new window) and @_SaraKhalid (Opens in a new window) because these are my homegirls and they’re both absolutely crushing it.
What music are you listening to right now?
I’ve been listening to Sade for the first time (I know, I’m late), but I’m obsessed and sad that I wasn’t listening to her a long time ago. I also listen to Feist’s entire album “Pleasure” a lot, Soft Hair (duo LA Priest and Connor Mockasin), Anderson Paak, and Frank Ocean. But really my music library is off the charts. I work in music event planning and was a radio DJ for three years so it’s a part of who I am.
How would your friends describe you?
My friends describe me as outgoing and aggressive, which has its pros and cons. I’m very stern in my ways. I like to be right and be in charge of things. But I’m also very welcoming. I’ll take anyone in and cook a meal for you.
Cool! What’s for dinner?
I’d say rice and kimchi because I’ve never grown tired of it. You can eat it as a simple dish or dress it up. Other than that, I’d say spaghetti. I have random episodes where I’ll make spaghetti for literally every meal for an entire week because that’s all I’m craving.
Self-Care Sunday: What are three things you do to treat yourself?
- Buy a new plant.
- Buy a new book.
- Take a hot bath long enough to almost finish a movie.
I also like to treat myself to Thai food and vegan ice cream. 😊
Follow Kandy Jo on Instagram (Opens in a new window) to keep up with her travels and natural adventures.
