Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Karen Graff, Founder of 5Star Soap Studio, located in Sturgis, SK, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business goal is to make luxurious bath, body & home products that will enrich your everyday life. Being conscious of environmentally friendly ingredients and packaging. Our products are for those who love luxury and quality without impacting their environment and budget.
Tell us about yourself
I started this journey as an artisan soap maker when I noticed another soaper on Instagram. It quickly became an obsession as I was creating lotions, soaps, body butter, and lip balms. I had so many products it soon became common knowledge in my community that I should sell them. I started with a room in my house where I made my products and sold them. I then was introduced to a handmade artisan store called With These Hands Yorkton and EKK Decor Rentals Co.
In Yorkton, where I am presently a vendor, I realized I had outgrown my space in my house, and in the winter of 2021, I opened my new soap studio across the street from our house. This is my happy place where I can create and offer shopping to my customers. My motivation is my love for creating new designs of soap bars and products that make people happy.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I am proud to offer people wholesome luxurious products that I have created myself. My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is knowing I’m giving a quality product while making my customers happy! Every time I receive a compliment on a product that has enriched my customers' lives, I feel grateful.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Being a business owner has its challenges every day. I think the hardest part is trying to juggle every facet of operating a business while thinking of my customers first. The challenges are worth the reward when I’m told they love my products.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
To start a business today, I would say do what you love first and foremost. Believe in your product. Be aware that running a business can be exhausting but very gratifying at the same time. Get out in public with trade shows and social media platforms. The more exposure you have for customers to find your website or where to purchase your products is a huge help in growing your business.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://fivestarsoapstudio.ca/
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3OCBlxE
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/5starsoapstudio/
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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