Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Neia Hutchinson, founder of Self Blossom, located in Oakland, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
The Self Blossom Box is a monthly subscription designed to teach women simple strategies that grow their potential in a season instead of investing years in trial and error. Each box features everyday products that are clean, ethical, and sustainable from premium Black-owned brands. All of our brand partners promote collective well-being. We help women FEEL GOOD NOW and prepare for life's next challenge!
Tell us about yourself
It's not uncommon to encounter at least one phase in our lives where we feel stuck and overall uninspired. I started this company because of my own personal experience.
After multiple setbacks and reinventions, I've discovered and refined the solutions I'd been seeking. Most people want to start working on their dreams, passions, or purpose but don't have a clue where to start. My monthly subscription provides the framework and removes the guesswork. Every day, this business fulfills my desire to help women begin their Hero's Journey. Right now, I touch (with my loving hands) every box that ships, and I'm really proud of that.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is going from ideation to product to fulfilling an annual subscription and having repeat customers. Having my most profitable day while vacationing in Hawaii ranks high too.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is the responsibility and pressure of making decisions that can have a significant impact on the success or failure of the business. As the owner, I make tough choices about finances, operations, marketing, and other aspects of the business. These decisions can have far-reaching consequences. Also, the workload can be overwhelming. Learning to be intentional in maintaining a healthy work-life balance has kept me sane.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Develop a solid business plan. It serves as a roadmap for your business, outlining your goals, strategies, financial projections, and other details. Do your research, and know your customer and their pain points. Use this information to create a comprehensive plan that guides you and keeps you focused on your goals.
- Teamwork makes the dream work. Build a strong team who shares your vision and is committed to helping your business succeed. Hire people with the necessary skills, experience, and work ethic. To retain the best talent, prioritize your employee needs.
- Embrace innovation and adaptability. In today's fast-paced business environment, it's important to adapt and have an open mind to new ideas. Keep up with emerging trends and be willing to pivot your business strategy to stay competitive and meet the evolving needs of your customers.
- Decide to move forward in creating your business, DESPITE YOUR CURRENT STRUGGLES.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://self-blossom-box.cratejoy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/selfblossombox
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/selfblossombox/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/selfblossombox
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neia-banks-6ba65437/
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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