Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in skincare but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Alison Brown Dolmont, owner of Olga Natural Skincare, located in Dartmouth, NS, Canada.

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

OLGA is a natural skincare manufacturing company. From a background as a medical herbalist and formulator, I design and produce an environmentally conscious, boutique line of skincare products for people who value self-care and want to eliminate harmful chemicals from their everyday routine. This includes a mama/baby line for those who want natural products for their little ones that are both highly effective and most gentle and some essentials for postpartum healing since we moms need nourishing too. Lastly, I provide design and consultation services for other companies who are interested in expanding their operations to include their own branded product lines.

Tell us about yourself

I began creating personal care products while enrolled at the California School of Herbal Studies. I knew that plants had a remarkable ability to heal and protect the skin. I wanted to make this more accessible, not to mention my strong desire to move away from harmful ingredients found in standard beauty products. I'm motivated by plants and their relationship with us and by my desire to help people find value in self-care practices.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Staying true to myself, speaking from the heart, and not straying from my core values.

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

Wearing all the hats! As small business owners, we constantly have to learn new skills that are outside of our core expertise. It's important to recognize when you're juggling too much and when to hire help.

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

  1. Find your local business community. Most cities have entrepreneurial organizations that are excellent resources for networking and continued learning.
  2. Turn distracting notifications off and be mindful of how much time you spend down the rabbit hole of social media.
  3. Take care of yourself. It's easy to get wrapped up in what feels like endless work and neglect your needs. Give yourself permission for breaks and make time for things that light you up.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Down days will happen, be patient yet persistent, be clear with what you're setting out to do, and believe in it with all your heart.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://olgadesigns.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/olgadesigns/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olgadesigns/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisonbrowndolmontolgadesigns/

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.