Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Sonya Hernandez, Owner of Recover Restore Gro LLC., located in Carmichael, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I provide a vegan hair growth product line for the consumer that is ingredient conscience. Many products today are loaded with toxic ingredients. I wanted to provide a cleaner alternative to promote hair growth and healthier hair while using nature's best ingredients. Healthy Hair should be a part of your lifestyle without having to compromise your standard of health.
Tell us about yourself
I have been a Licensed Cosmetologist for 22 years. In my industry, finding a true plant-based professional product line that can produce hair growth using vegan ingredients is non-existent. While working closely with hair loss clients in the breast cancer community, I have seen the need to provide a safer alternative besides the popular mainstream growth products on the market. Every day that my clients can achieve hair health with the benefits of plants without putting themselves or loved ones at risk motivates me to provide my brand on a wider scale as a solution and safer alternative that they can feel good about.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
In 2021 we expanded our brand on Amazon to expand across borders. In addition to this, we have also been featured on our local news station during a special segment addressing hair loss. The highlight, though, has been working with GS1 US and being invited as a Speaker on the Small business panel at the GS1 Connect 2022 Business Conference. Connecting with big retailers has opened up so many opportunities for my brand.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
There comes the point where your growth is inevitable, and it forces you to delegate and take the necessary risks in order to expand. This has been a challenge for me because I like to play it safe and have full control of my business. I have seen the wisdom in hiring others to do things that I can no longer maintain. This helps me level up to the next phase and allows my business to flourish and grow properly.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do your research on everything and take the time to fully understand the business laws in your area. This includes protecting your brand legally and properly trademarking with the USPTO.
- Balance. Know that everything will get done! Set working hours and don't allow your passion to turn into a burden that consumes your life but rather one that enriches it.
- As hard as you work, play harder and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Sit back and cherish every milestone; it's all a part of your business foundation.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
As a business owner, you will have setbacks and challenges; this is normal. Allow these moments to help you grow and get creative. Setbacks have crucial teaching points you can grow from, and it's an opportunity for you to open new doors that you may have otherwise overlooked. My brand is a product of a setback and had I not experienced it, I would not have been pushed to build my own brand.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.recoverrestoregro.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/recoverrestoregro
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/recover_restore_gro/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/recoverrestoregro/
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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