Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jasmine Catchings, founder of J.Essentials, located in Las Vegas, NV, USA.

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

My business, J.Essentials, creates essential everyday products that you and your family can be proud of. I've always been passionate about supporting Black-Owned Businesses. During quarantine 2020, I was searching for Black-Owned liquid soap companies to support. I easily found Black-Owned bar soap companies, but it was a lot harder to find liquid soaps. The liquid soap companies I did find always seemed to be missing something or not quite was I was looking for, so I decided to create my own formula and start my business. My customers are passionate about quality ingredients, reliable service, and supporting small businesses.

Tell us about yourself

As a proud Alumna of Howard University, my value of community, truth, and service plays a role in all that I do and was the main driver of wanting to start my business. I saw the value in creating everyday products that my customers and their families could trust, believe in, and be proud to support. When I was first researching liquid soaps, I asked my family and friends if they knew of any Black-Owned liquid soap companies. I received a unanimous no, but they each replied that they would support one if they knew about it. Discovering this lack in the market was one of my biggest motivators. Knowing that I could fill that gap and do it with pure intentions for my community keeps me inspired each and every day.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment was being selected as one of Las Vegas Entrepreneurs Magazine's "Small Businesses to Look Out for in 2022" this past December. At the time, J.Essentials were only six months old. I'm continuously overwhelmed with the support my local community has shown me and was so humbled to be selected. It was an amazing reminder that all the hard work that goes into being a business owner is worth it and valued by the very community it was created for.

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

For me, the hardest thing about being a business owner is balancing my business with my other responsibilities. Along with J.Essentials, I also have a full-time job and recently graduated from UNLV with my Master's Degree. Staying disciplined with my time can be challenging. Running a business is a full-time role in itself, so it's critical that I have planners, reminders, and calendars for everything. It's also important that I take time for myself to do something fun to keep from burning out. It can be tough to find time for those moments, but they are so necessary.

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

First, do your research. Make sure you're knowledgeable about your industry before jumping into it. Just because it is something you like or are interested in doesn't mean you should jump into starting a business blindly. Second, make sure to crunch your numbers. Running a business can be expensive. Before starting, make sure you understand how much it is going to cost you to maintain and grow your business. Some companies take years before making a profit, and you want to be realistic with yourself about what to expect and how much your materials will cost you out of pocket. Lastly, just start it! Once you've done your research and know your numbers take the leap of faith and start. It can feel scary and uncertain at times, but the most rewarding moment comes once you are finally open for business. You got this. Always remember, if other small business owners can do it, so can you!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Thank you to all of my supporters over the last few months. You truly are the inspiration and motivation behind all that I do. I'm currently working on new products and new scents for the Spring and Summer season, so be sure to follow my social media and join the J.Club on my website for more updates.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://jessentialsshop.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JEssentialsShopping/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessentialsshop/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jessentialsshop

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.