Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lisa Harris, Owner of Mary Magaline Soap Company, LLC, located in Hiram, GA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Here at Mary Magaline Soap Company, we create soap using natural ingredients that are safe and harmless for your skin. Our soaps are created in small batches, handcrafted with care, using food-grade ingredients, items easily found in most kitchen pantries. We use plant-based and phthalate-free fragrances that do not have harmful chemicals, safe for your skin's consumption.
Tell us about yourself
I have been a business owner most of my adult life since leaving the military. I've been a Mary Kay Cosmetics Consultant, owned a home-based daycare center, and even tried my hand at Event Planning/Organizing. This journey of owning a soap and skincare company came about when my husband went overseas to work, and our last child left the nest and went off to college. I needed something to fill the void. I took a soap-making class and fell in love.
What motivates me to do what I do? Knowing I offer a product that supports a movement towards living a more natural lifestyle is both motivating and exciting. Consumers are making wiser and safer choices for themselves and their families, and we are glad to help move that agenda forward.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment must be remaining stable through the global pandemic (COVID) and now sustaining as we face the current economic downturn. We make adjustments that benefit the client and the business, learning as we go.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
For me, it is sometimes hard to be a company of one. As a sole proprietor, every task is my responsibility. If I don't do it, it doesn't get done. What helps me overcome this obstacle is scheduling tasks. For instance, Monday and Thursday are postal days, and Wednesday is when I print, label, and shrink wrap products.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
My first piece of advice for those looking to start a business is to go ahead and START. Stop overthinking, or you will never get started. You learn as you go. You do not have to have it all figured out to start. Second, surround yourself with people who have the same mindset as yours. They will keep you motivated and moving in the right direction. Lastly, hard times will come, but if you love what you do and know your "why," you will be just fine.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Experience is just as important as education. Jump right in with both feet and never look back.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.magalinesoaps.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MagalineSoaps/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/magalinesoaps/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/magalinesoaps
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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