Pallavi Pande is a BIPOC mompreneur on a mission to transform the dining experience through sustainability. As the founder of DTOCS, she’s leading the charge by creating eco-friendly tableware with rescued palm leaves from India, giving these natural resources a second life. Pallavi is dedicated to balancing income with impact, using her brand to champion environmental responsibility for homes and events. When she’s not reshaping the world, one palm leaf plate at a time, you can find her enjoying a Zumba class, savoring fine wine, or networking with like-minded individuals. For Pallavi, it’s all about People, Planet, and Parties!
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How did you get to where you are today?
Earlier in my career, I worked in logistics for a private company, where I gained expertise in international shipping. A few years later, I realized I wanted to use that supply chain experience to create a business of my own that could make a real impact. Growing up in India, I often ate on banana leaves – a piece of my culture I deeply miss as a mom.
That nostalgia sparked a purpose within me. I was inspired to create a brand that not only honors my culture but also offers consumers a better alternative to cheap paper, toxic plastic, expensive bamboo, and boring traditional tableware. That’s how Dtocs was born – an e-commerce brand rooted in the idea of a cleansing journey with palm leaves.
Who has made an impact on you?
Throughout my journey with DTOCS, my daughters have had the most significant influence on me. Their curiosity and drive to make a difference have inspired me to create a business that not only reflects responsibility and sustainability, but secures a better future for them. They now help manage our brand’s social media and run their own Etsy shop, SisterJewelryUSA, where they sell bracelets to raise money of their own. Their initiative reminds me of the importance of responsible business practices.
I’m also inspired by the resilient women artisans in India, whose craftsmanship is essential to DTOCS. Their dedication strengthens our commitment to sustainability and community support.
What do you think has helped you the most with your success?
On my toughest days, what reignites my passion for DTOCS are the powerful stories from our customers and the tangible impact we see. We often receive messages from people who admire our mission to empower women in India and love our eco-friendly products. Hearing how DTOCS has made events like weddings both memorable and sustainable fills me with pride.
What resonates most are the transformative stories from our initiatives, like when we provided sewing machines to women at the Anmol Sahara NGO in India. One woman started her own tailoring business to support her family, and another opened a fashion school to teach others. These stories are a beacon of hope and motivation, reminding me of the profound ripple effect of our efforts. They compel us to push forward and amplify our impact, one eco-friendly plate and sewing machine at a time.
What has been the biggest challenge you have overcome in order to achieve your goals?
The biggest challenge we’ve faced at DTOCS has been navigating the complex sustainable products market while staying true to our mission. Breaking into a plastic-dominated industry and convincing consumers and retailers to choose palm leaf tableware over conventional options required significant effort. We focused on educating our customers about the environmental and social benefits of switching to biodegradable products. This meant not just marketing, but also engaging with communities, participating in sustainable initiatives, and continuously innovating our product line to meet consumer needs without compromising on quality or ethics. Overcoming these hurdles has strengthened our resolve and positioned DTOCS as a leader in eco-friendly tableware.
What are you most proud of?
At DTOCS, I’m most proud of our commitment to sustainability and the real impact we’ve made on both the environment and our communities. We’ve introduced eco-friendly tableware that competes with the quality and aesthetics of conventional products while strictly adhering to sustainable practices. Our products decompose within 90 days in backyard settings, providing a viable alternative to plastics and other non-biodegradable materials.
What are three pieces of advice you could give to our readers?
For those navigating the world of sustainable business or entrepreneurship, here are three key pieces of advice based on our experiences at DTOCS:
- Embrace Transparency: Today’s consumers care deeply about the origins and
impact of the products they buy. Being transparent about your processes,
sourcing, and business practices builds trust and credibility – essential for
long-term success. - Focus on Community: Never underestimate the power of community. Whether it’s through engaging in local initiatives, supporting global causes, or fostering a positive internal company culture, strong community connections can amplify your impact and help sustain your business through challenging times.
- Prioritize Adaptability: In the dynamic field of sustainability, conditions and consumer preferences change rapidly. Being adaptable in your strategy and product offerings is essential. Keep an eye on market trends, listen to customer feedback, and be ready to pivot or evolve to stay relevant and effective in a competitive landscape.
How do you try to make an impact?
Beyond our products, I’m incredibly proud of our social initiatives at DTOCS. We
support women artisans in India by providing them with sewing machines and skill development, empowering them to become economically independent. We also contribute to educational programs for underprivileged children, ensuring they have opportunities for a brighter future. These efforts reinforce both our business model and our core values of making a positive impact on the communities we serve. This dual focus on environmental sustainability and community support is what truly sets DTOCS apart and fills me with great pride.
How do you reward yourself when you’ve reached a goal or after a hard day of work?
At DTOCS, celebrating achievements and maintaining balance is crucial. I have a deep passion for travel and have visited 19 countries so far. When I reach a significant goal, I reward myself by booking a trip to a new destination. This practice not only fulfills my love for exploring different cultures and landscapes but also recharges my creativity and enthusiasm for my work. It’s a fulfilling way to combine personal growth with the joy of discovery, keeping me motivated and inspired in both my professional and personal life.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Beyond my professional achievements, I’m deeply committed to empowering women in my local community. I founded Portland Brown Mommies, a network of 2,000 local moms, focused on supporting women of Indian and Asian cultural backgrounds. This initiative provides a nurturing environment where women can connect, share experiences, and access opportunities for growth.
You can learn more about DTOCS online at dtocs.com and follow Pallavi on Instagram
Lucy Curtis-Cherry
Lucy Curtis-Cherry is a student at Middlebury College studying American Studies and Film & Media Culture. As President of her school’s chapter of The Women’s Network, intern at Sass Magazine, and Marketing Coordinator for Escape This Frederick, Lucy is passionate about creative storytelling and female empowerment through community.
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