Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Eula (Reesey) Berry, Founder of Essential Excellence Co., located in Pooler, GA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is Essential Excellence Co. We are a hand-poured candle company based out of Savannah, GA. It was founded on the idea of making others feel good about themselves, making them feel seen and appreciated, and as a reminder to take a break and take care of themselves.
Now, I gear my focus towards people who are like me, business owners, parents, and anyone who constantly goes hard for others and sometimes forgets to take a moment for themselves.
Tell us about yourself
I first got started in 2019 around Mother's Day. I was putting together Mother's Day boxes for about ten special mothers in my life just to let them know they were seen and appreciated. I wanted to add a special handmade touch, and I had some candles nearby and thought that could be it. Well, I ordered what I needed and added the finished products to the boxes, and they loved them, so I dove deeper and researched the proper way to do it, and now here we are.
I'm motivated each day to keep going for a couple of reasons. My customers' reactions when they purchase or receive any of my products warm my heart. When they read the encouraging quotes or notice something that resonates with something specific in their personal lives, it makes a world of difference, and I love giving others that feeling.
My daughter also plays a big role in my motivation to keep going. She's watching, and I want her to know that she, too, can create the life she wants if she pleases. I want her to know that she doesn't have to wait on anyone to give her permission to live how she wants. I need her to know that it's okay to put herself first. I also do this for myself. As I encourage and inspire others, I do the same for myself. It's a constant reminder to me and others that I can do what I please and to remember that outside of being a mom, an entrepreneur, and working a full-time job, it's okay to be present and to love on myself.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner had to be simply starting the business and still going strong three years later. Starting this business pushed me to work harder and step out of my comfort zone. I've been recognized and acknowledged for my business but simply starting and continuing is the biggest and best accomplishment yet.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things for me that comes with being a business owner is literally doing the things that I wouldn't normally do, stepping out of my comfort zone. There have been plenty of times when I had to do something that I wouldn't normally do but pushing through that barrier helped me get to another level in business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Start - don't wait until the perfect time or until you feel ready or have everything together because that time will never come.
- Know why you're doing this. When you have a reason to keep going, you will. You won't always feel like it or motivated to do it, but your reason 'why' will keep you disciplined enough to keep pushing through.
- Network with others. Collaborations and networking with others can be powerful when it comes to running a business.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Essential Excellence Co's name is an ode to my name - Eula. I used to hate it, but after learning more about my great-grandmother and namesake, I grew to love it. When you see the brand, it resembles everything she was - bold, sophisticated, elegant, but powerful. All of my scents are named with an E-word that ties in with a quote of encouragement to round out the feeling that each scent gives off. Whatever you do in life or in business, make sure you're doing it with intention. It makes a world of difference.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://essentialexcellenceco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/essentialexcellenceco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/essentialexcellenceco/
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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