Our Story

This is our story.

Alex has been a fighter from the start. Diagnosed with autism at a young age, he spent years nonverbal and faced difficult challenges, yet persevered through therapies, diets, and medications to sharpen his awareness and communication. He earned his high school diploma, completed two years at Rowan University in Glassboro, New Jersey, and obtained his driver’s license. Though employment proved difficult, his sensitivity inspired him to create body care products free from harsh, chemical-filled ingredients.

In 2020, after moving to Southwest Florida, new opportunities opened for Alex. He joined the Venice Special Olympics weightlifting team and, by 2023, began exploring entrepreneurship. He earned OSHA and supply chain certifications, and what began with homemade candles grew into Mr. Naturalistic—a brand dedicated to affordable, clean body care. Partnering with a Fort Myers business, Alex now produces artisan soaps, body butters, lotions, sprays, scrubs, and scent diffusers in custom, chemical-free scents crafted locally.

Alex founded Mr. Naturalistic in response to the challenges of finding and keeping employment. His vision is to grow the business into a source of meaningful work for individuals with special needs. Today, his products appear at Tampa Bay and Englewood markets with plans to expand into Wellen Park, Venice, Sarasota and beyond.

For Alex, life with special needs reveals a silver lining—where challenges arise, unique talents often shine. His journey embodies the power of transforming obstacles into opportunities, discovering passion, nurturing ability, and creating something that uplifts both himself and those around him.

From: Neighbors of the West Villages | July 2025 Feature Story
By: Christina Judd
Alex Ciaravino: Mr. Naturalistic & Company