Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Veronica Pesantes, Co-Founder of The Onikas, located in Miami Beach, FL, USA.

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

The Onikas is a lifestyle brand that lives at the intersection of design, sustainability, and wellness. Our mission is to preserve and promote and produce artisan-made textiles. Dedicated to slow fashion, our products are made with great care and respect in India and Ecuador. We are just like our customers, women who range in age from 35-65. We all believe in self-care, protecting the environment, comfort, and good design.

Tell us about yourself

I am a natural-born connector, an Ecuadorian who grew up in the U.S. I’ve lived between Ecuador, Spain, Texas, NYC, and Miami Beach. I am a synthesizer and a jill-of-all trades: a thought leader, visionary, artist, yoga teacher, producer, curator, designer, activist, and writer. More importantly, I am a solo mom to two incredible young women: my greatest achievement thus far.

With over thirty years of experience working in art, sustainable fashion, and wellness, I inspire others to care about the clothes they wear and how their consumer choices impact the earth. As a Latina founder, I hold diversity and equality as pillars of my brand. As a certified yoga teacher, well-being and self-care are central to my life.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Having survived the pandemic, so many incredible brands closed. The ability to re-focus, downsize, and reinvent has been the key.

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

Lack of "security" and a guaranteed paycheck.

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

Have a plan. I wish I has devoted more time to strategy at the start. Know your strengths and weaknesses, get help for the things you need, and celebrate your wins because there will be a ton of fails!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Everyone should support local; Amazon has made us lazy, hurting the creative people in your community. Seek out small brands and make a difference.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://theonikas.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theonikaspath/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theonikas/

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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