Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mandeep Shahi, Owner and managing partner of ZENMED.COM, located in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We offer naturally-based, specialized skin care for troubled skin conditions. No celebrities, no endorsements, just serious lab formulated skincare meant to get results.
Tell us about yourself
I think I felt the need to be of service. I don't think I could have gone into any field that I didn't feel that in some way was helping people get or feel better. As I had finally overcome a seriously emotionally crippling skin condition, I wanted to share what I had learned along the way. It's as simple as that. It does motivate me every day to continue doing it.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I think when we sold our one-millionth bottle of cleanser, I finally felt like our message resonated with our customers. I didn't bend or sway; I stuck with my convictions of being sustainable as possible and minimizing packaging and waste. I'm very passionate about my environmental footprint.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Oh, that's easy; having kids has been hands-down the most difficult thing I have encountered while trying to run a business. My kids are 7 and 2 with completely different needs at the moment. It's honestly just draining some days.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Surround yourself with the right people and ideally find a mentor whose skills you really admire.
- You have to plan, plan, plan. I remember spending almost every spare moment of my day (and sometimes nights) conceptualizing the brand, formulas, and pitches.
- Explore crowdfunding and venture capital. Undercapitalization is the bane of small businesses, especially when talking about consumer goods. Don't sell the family farm just yet.
Where can people find you and your business?
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.