One necklace has turned into a lifestyle brand with a social impact

Mahendi features beautiful, handcrafted items Photos: Breana Soliday Photography

Mahendi was born from Tera Herman’s life experiences and innate desire to do good. The massive story that is Mahendi weaves in and out of monumental events that have culminated into a social purpose for safeguarding lives and communities globally.

The one necklace that started it all was adapted from an ancient talisman of protection and embodies Mahendi’s four values. “Our guiding principles are represented by the four points of our symbol—clarity, wisdom, strength and grace,” Herman explained.

She believed that this symbol was meant to change lives. “We began with a desire to help maternal health clinics in Nepal, but it dissolved before we began. I had trademarked the symbol and kept it safe until I was ready,” she shared. “Fast forward five or six years, and my daughter encouraged me to relaunch.”

Herman says that Startup Alleghenies coach Jen Marsh has been instrumental in her success. “Jen is always looking for ways to support small businesses. She is always coming alongside us to offer resources and help,” she said.

“The mission of Mahendi is so beautiful,” Marsh said. “The unfolding of the social impact of the signature piece is an incredible journey rooted in bringing change for women across the globe.”

Mahendi’s signature necklace worn by Helen Hunt in the 2019 movie “I See You”.

Herman’s pieces have been selected for use in movies and by celebrities. “We have stylists and celebrities choosing our pieces,” she said. “Helen Hunt wore our necklace in the movie I See You.”

“The support in the Alleghenies is really remarkable,” Herman said. “Mari Pat Beene saw the value of Mahendi and created the opportunity for us to have a brick-and-mortar store. Our retail space may have had the biggest impact on our profitability, but the support of all the other female entrepreneurs in Bedford and Altoona has been immeasurable.”

The Omni Bedford Springs Resort and Spa has been an important partnership for Mahendi. “They have challenged us to dream bigger. They are using our essential oils in the spa and premium spa guest rooms,” Herman said. “So many small businesses have linked arms with us to support our business. Bedford is an incredible place to own a business.”

Since its inception, Mahendi has transformed into a socially responsible lifestyle brand expanding its purpose to safeguard our communities, shared resources and people around the globe. “We started with our signature piece of jewelry, but in listening to our customers, we began making products crafted from ingredients from around the world. We choose to work with transparent suppliers with similar values as ours,” Herman shared.

Many entrepreneurs start hoping their idea will succeed, and Herman is the same. “ I believe in the power of fulfilling our purpose, and everything we have needed has just happened,” she said. “We have had pivotal events every year that have led to our success, and I have faith that we are fulfilling our purpose with this company.”

“Mahendi was my protector. It gave me a bigger purpose to focus on,” she said.” It saved my mental health during the pandemic. And now it is my turn to be Mahendi’s protector and empower people worldwide.”

Herman shares this advice—“Believe in yourself and surround yourself with mentors and people who inspire you.”

Unfortunately, a few weeks after our interview with Tera Herman, her building was lost in a fire. In a follow up conversation she shared with us that community support has been stronger than she could have imagined.

“We are remaining positive and are excited about reopening this space once all of the repairs are complete and the dust settles,” she said. “We work with a resilient group of artisans that have already committed to making this space even better.”

“Please know that we are incredibly grateful to every person who has walked through our door, sampled one of our products, reached out with kind words, or shown love from afar. We will be back. We will get through this. Thank you, Bedford, for your never-ending support!” she added.

Startup Alleghenies helps startup and emerging small businesses succeed by providing free coaching to entrepreneurs in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties. To access personal, one-on-one support from a coach in your county, including guidance, resources, tools and networking opportunities, sign up at startupalleghenies.com.