Raleigh Business Spotlight, Tandem

Apr 20, 2020 | Around Town

This week’s Raleigh business spotlight is one we are thrilled to highlight, Tandem. Tandem has created a plant-based line of deodorant for young boys and girls. Most importantly, the deodorants are aluminum-free, cruelty-free, and smells amazing. Wanting to try it out? Check out their website to see for yourself. We love supporting local, especially this family striving to bring natural and safe products into local Raleigh homes.

Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in town?

EJ is originally from Virginia and Russell is from Georgia. In 2019, we moved from Dayton, Ohio to Cary after separating from the Air Force and completing our academic goals. 

Children and Ages?

We have two kids. Our daughter Jaleyah is 12 and our son Jairyn is 9 years old.

One thing people would be surprised to know about you…

I think most people will be surprised that I can recite jingles from commercials from the 90’s. 

Anyone special you’d like to thank for helping you through parenthood?

The Air Force created a few challenges relative to parenthood, where we spent our entire careers 8 to 12 hours away from family. On most occasions, we had to depend on each other. However, we would really like to thank Russell’s mom for the sacrifices she made when he deployed. It was tough times and she moved in to help me take care of our kids until he returned. It was truly a blessing. 

Favorite things to do with your kids?

Our kids tend to have a heightened sense of enjoyment with hands-on activities. Therefore, we love science crafts and cooking together because their smiles are priceless. 

Can you tell us more about Tandem and how you got started?

Yes! After learning about the public health risk associated with personal care products, we launched Tandem, a natural deodorant for kids.  We wanted to make a difference. As parents of two, manufacturing safe and natural personal care products for kids was our way of doing this.  We hope to expand and sell a variation of personal care products for kids. 

What does this community mean to you/How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?

The Triangle provided our family an unrivaled opportunity to build a sustainable life around a community with so many exciting attributes. Although we admire the diversity and quality of life, it was the people and sense of togetherness that led us here. We also value the incredible support of local businesses and numerous opportunities in social fulfillment and recreation.