Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in skin care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Keisha Young, Founder of Clay and Olive Skincare, located in Union, NJ, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Clay and Olive Skincare is a premier and inclusive skincare line offering products made using natural ingredients. We are 100% vegan, gluten and cruelty-free. Our skin-savvy consumers are women between the ages of 25-50 seeking toxin-free/natural skincare solutions that don’t compromise luxury.

Tell us about yourself

My passion for skincare was sparked at an early age as I grew up watching my mother nurture her own skin with a daily ritual that restored vibrancy. My mother, the youngest of seven, grew up on a large farm in rural Alabama. Growing up, she’d watch my grandmother handcraft soaps made from simple ingredients harvested on their farm. Taking key ingredients from simple skincare recipes passed down to me from generations of women in my family, I was able to forge forward to create an exciting vegan and cruelty-free line that unites skin wellness with self-care.

I am driven every day by a deep passion for the beauty industry and the satisfaction of creating something I believe in and seeing it succeed. I am also motivated by the desire to leave a lasting legacy for my family that will have a positive impact for generations to come.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Creating a community of women who support my brand has been a major highlight for me as a business owner and early-stage founder. Success doesn’t happen overnight. Advocacy is what will continue to set my brand apart from the rest. I have cultivated a community of women who are vested in the products, aligned with the brand’s core values, and are loyal and loud – sharing Clay and Olive Skincare’s vision.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

One of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is the constant pressure to make critical decisions that can have a significant impact on the success of my business. I must make tough choices every day, from deciding on pricing strategies and marketing campaigns and making huge financial investments. Each decision can have a ripple effect on my company’s bottom line, and that responsibility can sometimes be daunting. As a business owner, I am ultimately accountable for the success and failure of the business. This requires a lot of courage, confidence, and resilience to navigate the challenges and uncertainties.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Here are my top three tips for anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today:

  1. First, start with a solid plan. Before launching your business, take the time to create a well-thought-out business plan that outlines your goals, target market, marketing strategy, financial projections, and other important details.
  2. The next tip would be to prioritize customer satisfaction. Your consumer base is the lifeblood of your business, so it’s essential that their needs are put first. Focus on providing excellent customer service and delivering high-quality products, and listening to their feedback. Making your customers happy will help you build loyalty and create a positive reputation for your business.
  3. Finally, be adaptable and open to change. Trends in the beauty industry are constant; therefore, I need to be able to adapt and stay ahead of the curve. I always say being open to new ideas, staying up-to-date with industry trends and technology, and having the willingness to pivot the strategy will always position any business for long-term success. By staying adaptable, you’ll be able to navigate any challenges or changes that come your way.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://clayandoliveskincare.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clayandoliveskincare
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clayandoliveskincare/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/clayandolive
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keisha-young/

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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