Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care products but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with André Barsalou, co-founder of Les Soins Wise Inc., located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Wise offers premium natural personal care products for men, offered in a RRR packaging system to reduce our environmental impact (90% reduced plastic, reusable glass jars/bottles, recyclable refills). A concept born and developed in our co-founder's barbershop in Montreal, we cater to a new generation of informed and discerning consumers who want more from the products they buy. Top-notch products, clean ingredients, eco-friendly packaging, and a socially engaged community are the foundations of what Wise is all about.
Tell us about yourself
I've been slightly obsessed with personal growth practices for years, from yoga to meditation, fitness, nutrition, mental health, etc. I'm actually a part-time yoga and meditation guide as well as a caterer, so sharing these passions with others is a cornerstone of what makes me, me. With the support of my business partners, I've been able to infuse Wise with this mission of inspiring others to seek wisdom in all its forms, from the best grooming and personal care rituals to how to mature as a modern man. Sure we sell shampoo, but we see our products as a part of a whole, a step-by-step journey of growth and balance, from overcoming challenges to basking in the sweet surrender of the simple joys of life.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Any time a customer communicates how Wise has touched them, from simply improving their hair care routine to inspiring them to make certain life changes, I feel like I've done my job.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Managing expectations and planning without losing the fire. It's easy to get excited about a project or new product and forget or ignore wise (hehe) warnings of the careful friends that surround you, which can lead to disaster. Heeding the advice of those who care for you without letting it dampen your drive and ambition is a tough balance to strike.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Start small, test, fail, adjust, scale.
- Don't lie to yourself.
- Have fun.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://wisemenscare.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WiseMensCare
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wisemenscare/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/wisemenscare
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wisemenscare/
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.