Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in skin care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Amie Burkholder, Founder of BronzedBerry, located in Fredericksburg, VA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We started a clear sunless tanning revolution. Our spray tanning and self-tanning products require zero rinsing, have zero smell, and women can get dressed and go within 5 minutes. We carefully select ingredients that are gentle, effective, and provide hydration. Perfect for ageless skin. Our e-commerce site has professional spray tan solutions products as well as at-home self-tanning products.
Tell us about yourself
My father died from melanoma. His journey led me to my own discovery of the dangers of traditional tanning. Still wanting to tan me and wanting freedom from the corporate world, I started my own sunless tanning business. I realized there were few companies in this space that operated with transparency regarding the manufacturing and training process. I'm pleased to say that I have certified and helped launch over 400 women's own mobile spray tanning businesses and am proud to provide them with our professional line of products. Most recently, I've come to realize just how many people are tanning at home with inferior products, and they're paying a lot for it! I've turned my focus to the consumer and want to show them that with our Clear and No Rinse sunless tanning line, they can achieve a healthy glow without the sticky, smelly, and time-consuming process they're accustomed to.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I've been in business 12 years, and it's still going without the need for investors! So many small women-owned businesses fail. I've been privileged to have an amazing product, loyal customers, and be part of a growing industry that is helping women live longer.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Wearing too many hats. It can be easy to take on all the tasks for your business because you're the only one who "can do things right." It's a fallacy that business owners tell themselves. Other people can help you grow your business and do things even better than you do them. Release tasks that others can do so you can focus on your core strengths.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Work every aspect of your business for at least a season. You must know the ins and outs of every part of your organization. This will help you not overburden employees and have unrealistic goals for their position.
- Make marketing and growth decisions based on data, not feelings! Pull analytical reports regularly to asses how your ideal clients are finding you and then double down on those efforts. Feelings lie; numbers don't.
- Don't hire a graphic designer to create your brand. If technology and the digital space are not your forte, hire a consultant first. They can help you craft your brand's values, messages, and ideal client. Then those can be presented to a graphic designer to help bring your strategy to life. Many businesses spend thousands starting with a graphic designer, then after about 12 months have to redo everything costing so much time and money. Having a strategy upfront can get you profitable more quickly.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://bronzedberry.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BronzedBerry/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bronzedberry_spraytanning/?hl=en
Twitter: https://twitter.com/amie_burk
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amie-burkholder-2544733/
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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