Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Karl Jackson, Founder of Black Beard Brigade by Yulaw Naturals, located in Spring, TX, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We help clients ages 25-45 who want to improve their hair and skin care regimen by providing natural and vegan skin, hair, and beard care products that solve problems of dryness and flaking, along with education on why it works. We are Black Beard Brigade Grooming Co. by Yulaw Naturals based out of Houston, Tx. It is our mission to provide natural hair and skin care products that have not been tested on animals during any stage of development, from the packaging to the materials used, to the finished product. We want to make our clients feel good while providing a unique experience. Although we are in a mature industry, we believe that we are different because we started when very few brands had products for Black men. Also, our initiative to educate our clients, work with community programs, and create a consumer experience helps set us apart from the rest.
Tell us about yourself
Our start came from the struggle of finding products that worked along with great service. We believe you should be able to apply a product and get through the day without feeling dry and itchy. Have you ever purchased an expensive product only to be disappointed by its results and have it end up in the trash? Once, I found a great product and began sharing it with others. One day, it was time to buy more, but the whole shop was gone. They had a great product but provided poor service, and clients became fed up. After years of searching and trying out different brands, we realized that consistently getting quality products and great service was hard to come by. So, we started creating our products, then decided to share them with the world. Hearing stories and feedback from customers about how our products helped them or how they love the difference it made for whomever they gifted the products to is always moving.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
The biggest accomplishment, thus far, has been dropping off 10 Tanoshi Kids Computers to 'Freedom Readers' this year. I've worked with the program in different capacities since 2011, and they've never had computers. Now, they are able to expand their literacy program and incorporate new methods for teaching kids. The smiles on the staff and kids' faces, along with the dancing they did, were very moving.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
There are always challenges, and the key is to be willing to accept these unknowns. As hard as we try, we'll never have everything 100% checked before launching. After you launch, there are always more unknown variables. The key is prioritizing what needs to be done and creating a routine.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Learn to delegate. If you're constantly working on your business, then you'll struggle to work on your business.
- It's okay to fail. Nothing you do or integrate is a one-way door. If you try something, and it doesn't work, then fine. Take note, make your adjustments, and try something else.
- Things get hard, and it's important to remember self-care and mental health, so you don't burn out.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://blackbeardbrigade.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlackBeardBrigade/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbeardbrigade/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blkbeardbrigade
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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