Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tabitha Wilson, Founder of Whiskey River Soap Company and Recreation Gifts, located in Newark, OH, USA.

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

I am the founder, owner, and creative force of Whiskey River Soap. We create humorous and sometimes ridiculous products, including handmade soaps and hand-poured candles that are distributed to thousands of gift shops and boutiques across North America. I also have my own gift shop called Recreation Gifts, which is located in my building. We sell our own products along with many other humorous products from other manufacturers I love. My building actually used to be a Rec Center that had a skating rink on the first floor in the 40s, a bowling alley and bingo hall on the second floor, and a basketball court on the third. So the gift shop is a nod to the building's history, with repurposed high school gymnasium floors, vintage gym equipment, a leather punching bag, and a bike suspended from the ceiling.

Tell us about yourself

I was a graphic designer for 20 years, with experience in magazines, advertising, film, digital media, and newspapers. I've also owned a candy store and a snarky greeting card company. Years ago, I created several funny products for another company, Genuine Fred. "Borrow My Pen" and "The Daily Mood Flipchart." When I looked at their other products, I knew I could do something with my sense of humor other than greeting cards. So I came up with an idea for a line of funny soaps. I bought soap supplies and taught myself how to make them. And I guess it was just what the humor gift shop market needed. Once my soaps hit a few stores, I went viral, and I've been playing catch-up ever since. That was almost 8 years ago. Now I have a 3-story building and a staff of about 35 who make soap, pour candles, package, label, and ship. I also have an assistant designer, some awesome customer service reps, and accountants.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

The successful creative freedom that pays the bills. It was my goal not to have to answer to anyone. I was simply tired of designing other people's "dumb" ideas and wanted to work on my own "dumb" ideas. So I do.

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

Pleasing everyone. Employees, outside sales reps, stores, and consumers. It's a juggling act.

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

  1. Do something you're passionate about... and naturally good at. I would have said "screw it" long ago if making people laugh wasn't the core of my soul.
  2. Invest in your business. Live lean until you really don't have to, and still invest.
  3. Adapt and change. Don't become stubborn in any process or product.
  4. Break rules.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Please visit our websites on the links below.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website:
https://whiskeyriversoap.com/
https://recreationgifts.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/whiskeyriversoap/
https://www.instagram.com/recreationgiftco/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tabitha-wilson-403aa5105/

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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