Freelance Singer/Musician; Owner, Sacred Ayla Tea Co.; Community Organizer, Radius CoWork

Jess Royer (she/her) is a small business owner, community organizer, and musician from Erie, PA. Over time, she has nurtured her passion for intuitive healing. Beginning her formal training by studying with herbalist Leah Wolfe, MPH, Royer has built a successful independent business specializing in herbal tea blends.

Her company, Sacred Ayla was created, in her words, by “a desire to make others feel seen, heard, and appreciated.” Crafting blends ranging from anxiety soothers to immunity boosters, Royer began with a stable of dedicated local clients, and has turned it into a nationwide base that continues to thrive.

She arrived at the company name when – during her tenure at the Erie Food Co-op – a customer noted that she reminded them of the main character in Jean M. Auel’s The Clan of the Cave Bear, who foraged for herbs for her village. Royer took that process to heart, one that has always felt distinctly sacred to her, and with the character’s name, Sacred Ayla was born.

Expertly assembling natural ingredients, Sacred Ayla’s blends foster wellness and strengthen the connection between mind, body, and soul.

That relationship is also deeply at work with her music. She’s been voted Erie’s Best Vocalist (as well as being a 40 Under 40 honoree), and has performed all over the region, be it solo, full-band, or with her longtime musical collaborator and best friend, Nick Warren. With a lush, velvety alto voice, her original songs combine classic jazz sounds, modern indie rock, and timeless, heartfelt honesty.

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