Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jodi Breau, Founder of Dental Lace Inc, located in Cape Elizabeth, ME, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Dental Lace Inc is an award-winning, zero-waste, global oral care company. Our products are free from harmful plastics and PFAS. Our customers care about their health and that of the planet.
Tell us about yourself
I used my passion for oral hygiene, sustainability, and research to create a brand that eliminates waste in everyday oral care. It occurred to me that floss lacked an eco-friendly alternative and a well-designed zero-waste container for people to use. So, my husband and I decided to get to work. After many late nights of researching and collaborating with friends, family, and our local community, we developed a product that positively benefits people's smiles and the planet.
"For every person in the U.S. who flosses their teeth according to ADA recommendations, just the empty floss dispensers alone would fill a landfill the size of a football field six stories high." (1)
This shocking statistic drives us to continue spreading awareness about the large environmental impact one small habit like flossing can make. When you decide to take the step to eco-friendly flossing, you are making a mindful purchase that positively impacts people and our planet. Dental Lace Refillable Floss® is a 100% zero waste, refillable, and eco-friendly dental floss. You can choose from either 100% silk or plant-based vegan floss options, both of which are biodegradable. Each silk or vegan floss spool is beautifully wrapped and sealed in a minimalist glass container with a 100% stainless steel cap or certified compostable refill bags containing each refillable floss spool. Our green branded packaging that contains our products is made from 100% post-consumer paperboard. All glass floss containers are meant to be reused and refilled. Even our nature-inspired label designs are 100% compostable and made from sugar cane fiber.
What motivates me each day is the customer feedback. Their response to my idea has been phenomenal. I've learned that there's a huge zero-waste community that thinks like I do. It's this community that reminds me that I'm making a difference. When you decide to take the step to eco-friendly flossing, you are making a mindful purchase that positively impacts people and our planet.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Dental Lace Inc has educated consumers worldwide about the harm that conventional plastic dental floss causes to wildlife, the environment, and us. We've been recognized with awards and media features for our efforts to eliminate harmful plastic dental floss.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Remaining focused is the hardest thing for me as a business owner. Opportunities are pitched to me daily. I never know if this PR firm or Business Consultant will actually be the one to launch Dental Lace as a household name.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Research. Do market research, competitor research, and research suppliers.
- KPIs Have a daily read of how the company is performing by monitoring a list of Key Performance Indicators.
- Risk. Take informed risks. Know the ROAS and ROI before you engage.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.dentallace.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DentalLace/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dentallace/
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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