Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tanya Rasley, Founder of Canard Labs, located in Coos Bay, OR, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I own and operate Canard Labs. I handcraft artisan soap, bath bombs, sugar scrubs, and all things that make you smell good. My customers are men and women who support local handmade businesses, care about natural ingredients, and look for everyday items that increase their personal happiness.
Tell us about yourself
After a couple of decades of putting work first and working insane hours, my husband and I had a son. After giving birth to him, my priorities shifted to finding something that I could do while being present to raise him. I taught myself how to make everything from cold process soap to organic skincare with the use of the internet, books, and YouTube. Ten years later, Canard Labs is still going strong. My motivation is my family. I still work crazy hours, but I’m able to work while at home with my boys. Pretty priceless.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Lots of individual things like owning 2 retail locations before the age of 40 or getting our products into Kroger. Honestly, though, it’s seeing how it all started, a small operation out of a 2 bedroom apartment with a closet full of soap. To where I am now. Several loyal and repeat customers and have Canard Labs products in over 400 shops worldwide.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Knowing that the buck stops with you. No one else will make the tough decisions for you or handle difficult situations for you. You’re the boss! It’s a bit overwhelming at times, but it comes with the territory.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Comparison is the thief of joy. Don’t get sucked into what your peers are doing. Find your own style and stay true to yourself.
- Set consistent work hours and stick to them. Sure, I could answer that email at 10 pm, but I’m not going to (anymore, it took me years to learn this). Not everyone works 16 hours a day, and neither should you.
- Take time off. Burnout is real. One thing will always be true; the work will be there tomorrow. It’s not going anywhere. Your mental health and personal happiness are more important.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://canardlabs.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canardlabs/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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