Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in skincare but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Laura Lee Botsacos, founder of Apollo and Artemis Beauty by Equality®, located in Mamaroneck, NY, USA.

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

We believe that beauty dwells within the soul and shines on the surface. We are committed to the tenet that everyone is beautiful. We want to help you feel that way with our cutting-edge formulations delivering Real Results.

Apollo & Artemis Beauty by Equality® is a pioneer in clean beauty and luxury skincare. With impeccable standards of efficiency and curated with high-quality ingredients, our products are meticulously formulated for women and men.

We have spent years engineering skincare products that are perfect for all skin types, utilizing green chemistry and biotechnology. Our products are a perfect balance of science and nature, resulting in healthy, glowing, radiant skin. All of our products are vegan, clean beauty, and Leaping Bunny Approved. We are female-owned and operated and proudly made in the USA.

Tell us about yourself

I have had a vast and crazy background. I started off as a professional actress, then became a car dealer and eventually merged my creative side and my business acumen and forged a path in the beauty industry. I have worked in the plastic surgery field, medspas, and even sold medical, dental implants. I am motivated by helping others feel good about how they look, how they feel about themselves, and helping them harness their power. When you help effect change in another's appearance that maybe plagues them for years, and you witness the joy that that individual experiences-it's priceless.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I think my biggest accomplishment has been surrounding myself with an incredible team. From my chemist to our social media team- I am truly blessed.

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

Admitting that you may have made a 'mistake". Maybe you tried a campaign that no one was really in favor of, but as the owner, you wanted to try it or something similar. Those moments are humbling, to say the least, and require you to pivot and re-strategize.

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

  1. Clearly define your "why." This is super important because there will be days when you are simply overwhelmed; remembering "why" you started your business will help you get back on track.
  2. If you are a product-based business, have your cost of goods down to the penny. And clearly define your financials.
  3. Don't compare yourself to others. Some brands flourish on social media; many do not. Some brands are highly successful with direct to consumer and others more wholesale. Find your niche and stick to it.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

In today's world, competition can be fierce regardless of your industry. Stay the course. Have a clear vision and let the Journey take you.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://apolloandartemisbeauty.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraleebotsacos/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraleebotsacos/

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.