Healthies-West Lafayette marks monumental year, opening amid COVID-19 pandemic

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Melanie and Keene Red Elk opened their energy-boost beverage business in May 2020 just as the world adjusted to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Healthies-West Lafayette opened with COVID-19 protocols in place, including social distancing, mask-wearing by customers and staff, contactless payment options and curbside delivery. 

It was a gamble the couple took with their Herbalife protein and vitamin-fueled shakes, coffee, teas and energy bombs. 

“We weren’t sure what to expect," Melanie Red Elk said in a recently published news release. "We knew our friends and neighbors would stop in when we first opened.

"What we didn’t know for sure was if customers would keep coming back — but they did! We entered 2021 with record-breaking numbers and now average 100 customers each day.”

While the hospitality industry suffered during the pandemic, as capacity limitations strangled revenue, the Red Elks thrived. In fact, the couple announced in a news release sent to the Journal & Courier that they are negotiating a second location in West Lafayette.

The original location, at 447 Sagamore Parkway West, boasts familiar faces, as Melanie and Keene pride themselves in making everyone feel welcome.

“We see our customers as friends,"  Keene said. "We make an effort to know their names and learn their story. This might be our 'secret recipe' in addition to great products. We love what we do,”

Keene and Melanie also have benefited from their menu.

“Between my husband and I, we have seven auto-immune diseases," Melanie said in the news release. "Thanks to Herbalife, we don’t have to take any prescriptions. We are also down 35 (pounds) each. We hope sharing our story will help others.” 

In addition to the health-focused beverages, Healthies-West Lafayette also offers free wellness profiles, personal health and wellness coaches.