Supporting Your Active Lifestyle - IVUSION
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Chris Mustafavi, president and CEO of IVUSION Beverage Company, LLC., located in Irvine, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
IVUSION is a functional beverage based on the innovative concept of IV Fluids, formulated by top nutritionists and physicians, one of whom worked on Gatorade in its early stages. Currently available in 2 flavors: Mixed Berries and Citrus Orange. It contains a perfect balance of flavor with BCAAs, organic turmeric, organic ginger, prickly pear, electrolytes, essential vitamins, 5-HTP, and more. It provides a clean boost of energy, supports the immune system, and alleviates hangover symptoms.
IVUSION is Kosher, Gluten-Free, and Non-GMO, without any preservatives, artificial flavors, or artificial sweeteners! Our consumers consist of athletes, health-conscious individuals, college students, partygoers, and fitness fanatics.
Tell us about yourself
Growing up, I have always had a strong desire to create, help others, and engage in meaningful tasks that I am passionate about. At a young age, I would sell things to my friends, from used clothes to buying and re-selling items for a profit. After high school, I decided to join the field of medicine. Working in this setting, I noticed tremendous growth in IV therapy but also witnessed the inconveniences it brought to patients. For example, the high cost of IV therapy, time inefficiency, risk of infection, and more. I wanted to change this and make it accessible for everyone. Using my knowledge of medicine along with a strong background in health sciences, I decided to create homemade samples and share them with physicians and other co-workers. Everyone fell in love with this idea, and the journey of IVUSION began for me. The influence of other great entrepreneurs and my persistence and passion for success have allowed me to endure all life's challenges and never accept defeat.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest personal accomplishment has been launching IVUSION. It was amazing to watch the development of a product from an idea to an actual beverage. Formulation stages were inspiring, and I was motivated to bring the concept of an IV-hydration-based drink to life. I had to undergo continuous market research and careful product concept planning. I always kept evolving to best satisfy consumer needs and expectations prior to launching IVUSION. There were many sleepless nights and times of self-doubt, but I persisted and made my dream come true.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Being an entrepreneur is challenging but rewarding. Every day is a new opportunity for growth; however, not every day is successful. As the CEO, I am responsible for all company decisions such as product development, finding capital, managing time, marketing strategies, growing my team, and more. There are days when this burden is overwhelming. However, I have learned to be my own source of inspiration and drive in times of self-doubt. During these times, I sometimes lack a support system. Running a start-up is challenging on its own due to the responsibility of all major company decisions but also just finding motivation and push to keep going. Therefore, at times I have to serve as my own source of motivation and inspiration to succeed despite obstacles on my way.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do your research - I started with little capital, but I knew if I did my research, I could surely find the resources, the capital, and the knowledge needed to succeed. With patience and persistence, I have established an outstanding product and brand that's being sold in several states today.
- Time Management - Running your own business is time-consuming and can be overwhelming. It is important to manage your time and allocate resources so that important tasks get completed. Prioritizing daily goals is also a key to a well-running business.
- Stay Positive - Life and business are full of obstacles and surprises. It is important to remain flexible and adaptable in order to best adjust to changes in the industry. Positivity is a must during times of self-doubt.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I believe that my story can serve as a strong motivation and guidance for all entrepreneurs who are afraid to start their journey or struggling in it. When I decided to start IVUSION, I did not know what I was getting myself into, but I knew this was what I wanted, and I was willing to do whatever it took.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://ivusionbevco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IVUSIONBeverageCompany/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ivusionbevco/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ivusionbevco
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ivusionbevco/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.