Washington Post's Green E-zine lists EC CEO as an Expert in the field
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Brian Mahan
Eco-Chic Concierge
Until recently, there wasn't one person you could go to and ask about organic chefs, personal healers, celebrity eco-stylists, all-natural doulas, and psychics. Now, at least in Los Angeles, there is. The go-to guy among his friends and acquaintances for recommending innovative, quality services for them to try, Brian Mahan has spent years searching for such resources around the world. A few years ago it dawned on him that he could take this special expertise and turn it into a viable business as the Enlightened Concierge. Talk about eco-luxury: Brian can curate and execute a personal-needs calendar for you with little fanfare-and no fee.-Allison Reynolds
What is the most recent green habit you've incorporated into your life?
Reusing shopping bags. I try to buy only organic food and I love Trader Joe's; I bring my own bag when I grocery shop. When I hike with my dog, I use smaller bags, I don't need to use a four-quart bag to pick up dog poop. I can re-use sandwich bags, or cut big bags in half.
What's a good green gift you would give someone?
Giving a healthy service to someone, like a massage, a yoga class, a facial. Enlightened Concierge alone has 85 services that you can choose from. There's something for everyone. It certainly cuts down on post consumer waste. You don't need wrapping paper, or a box, or any of those trappings. They most likely won't re-gift it either.
Any eco-sins?
Using too many water bottles; I buy water off the shelf. I could stop that. Oh, and Krispy Kreme donuts, especially the chocolate glazed ones. But honestly, if everyone ate Krispy Kreme donuts and got a massage once a week, we would have world peace.
What was the inspiration for your company?
A friend moved to L.A. a few years ago and I supplied her with contacts for different services she needed, like a dog walker and a personal chef. I've always been the seeker type: I read all the time, have tried all the natural-healing remedies and am always spreading the word when I learn something or meet someone new I think is helpful. After many years, I had a lot of information on where to go for certain services, and I became the go-to guy for friends. I realized there was a business here.
How does the Enlightened Concierge incorporate greener habits into its offerings?
Everything we do is natural, eco-friendly and alternative. The focus of our organizational providers is green: We have a cleaning service that gets all the chemical products out of the home and sets up a green cleaning system. We have a green manicurist who uses all organic products. We also work with a green stylist: If you need s stylist, she incorporates all green designers into the mix. We try to bring green style to all our clients.
What does "green" mean to you?
It means being conscientious: paying attention to what I am doing and how I am using the environment. I know that being a little unconscious as one goes through the day might help with convenience, i.e., throwing recyclables in trash, accepting plastic bags at the check out, using paper towels and napkins instead of cloth ones, etc. Being conscientious helps change those small, selfish habits. We can donate money, we can take down our carbon footprint, but what are we doing with each small opportunity for eco-action that presents itself throughout the day?
What services do you wish you could recommend more of?
One of the things I love is our access to eco-retreats all over the world. Personally, I would like to have access to even more eco-retreats-they are popping up all over the planet. I get exposed to so many places: While I was in Peru, I helped set up a soup kitchen at Mama Kia's orphanage called Sopa del Esperanza and made it a part of my business model that when my clients allow me to make arrangements for them (at no additional cost) to receive a massage, see a psychic or have a private yoga class, children are being fed. So I think that is what I would utilize more of: discovering new places and helping set up more community outreach programs.
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 Working with Brian changed my life. I have never experienced a more logical or effective way to heal, and I mean to really heal once and for all. more...
J. Stevenson
"We have been a client of Brian's for the past five years. We have found Brian to be the best. Nothing compares to the service Brian provides."
M. Peloquin
Enlightened Concierge is simply the best! I have been working with Brian for many years now and I can truly say that nobody compares to him. His blending of many techniques combined with his fantastic personal energy always make for a great experience.
B. Johnson
Thank you once again for a truly amazing experience! To think that when we first met, I didn't know what 'blissed out' meant, and now I experience (and am continuing to experience) that state of existence that you call 'blissed out!' I also want to thank you for teaching me what it means to be centered and to be fully present. more...
P. Hannon
Enlightened Concierge is great! I think you are effective and efficient. I know Jamie and Steve are happy with all the people that you send!
B. Ahaghotu, Personal Assistant
You are AWESOME!
You've enlightened me already ... Thank you ... take good care of yourself ... you are gifted!
Peggy
Well......., this one year teaching sabbatical has been very interesting to say the least. I want to personally that you for contributing to it. Meeting Mama Kia and seeing what you are doing for this lovely and courageous woman has been one of the highlights of my year. more...
A. Rossell
I am amazed at what you have achieved ... I see the results of your journey and I am very proud of you. more...
J. Bell
Once again- thank you SO much for being SUCH a gentleman. We can't wait to spread the word to everyone that we know about your professionalism, personal regard and for the caring that you extend both physically and emotionally to your clients.
A. Freedman
You held the space for me to honestly reflect upon my life and held counsel from a place of grounded-ness and clarity. The blend of your energies created a palpable magic to support people in being themselves-and that I would love to experience again!!! more...
A. Zsido
On the whole, the night was a huge success. I could never have done this so beautifully without you and the team that you so carefully put together for us. Thank you Brian. I am grateful.
Funny how life works........from the depths of my heart, I thank you. You have given me so much more than you could ever know. Thank you. Tonight you generously healed a place in my soul that will forever be okay.....in some part because of you. more...
A. Roth
WOW BRIAN!!! I was so relaxed and was able to thoroughly enjoy our family holiday thanks to you...many, many thanks!!! more...
J. Kleinman
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