Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in clothing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Soliél Lindsey, Owner of Sol Rise Essentials, located in Richmond, VA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Sol Rise Essentials offers mental wellness and affirmation merchandise for the entire family! We create t-shirts, jewelry, hats, and more for resilient humans on the grow. Our customers are humans that are on the road to wellness/healing after trauma or adverse life experiences. They are bringing their children, friends, family, and community along so we can all see a better world! We call those people the SolTribe - our intent is to empower them to thrive on their best days and the ones in between!
Tell us about yourself
I am a Mompreneur based in Richmond, VA, who has always been passionate about helping others see themselves in their best light. When people's self-confidence shines through, others are attracted to that and want to live up to the same thing.
I started my business during a huge transition phase in my life. My son was two, and I was in the middle of a career and health change. I felt led to step into my calling of ushering people into their wellness journeys by way of a business. I wasn't quite sure what that would look like, but after some reflection on my life, I realized affirmation jewelry and apparel had gotten me through a lot of personal battles. Why not offer that same feeling to others? That, along with being able to be present for my son (as a single parent), is my motivation. Seeing myself and others as our best selves is my motivation. Together we can do so much, and when we are healthier versions of ourselves, we can do even more!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I have begun my journey of public speaking! This was a huge feat for me because I was completely fearful of what others would think of me and what I was sharing. I have been learning to feel confident in what I know and have experienced regardless of how others perceive me. If I was asked to be in the room - that alone would be enough. It's been scary but freeing at the same time! Adding another revenue stream for my business has been great as well.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The ups and downs of a new era we are all living in (the technology and information era). You have to continue learning and also adapt to the new research and information made available. On the flip side of that, you have to discern what is actually relevant to your business and what you need to ignore in order to focus. I have also had to learn to be decisive, which is something I struggled with personally in the past. In business, you must make a decision and be okay with the result, as it is all information we can learn from.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Identify your why and then find your "people." Zone in on the types of people you want to appeal to and learn them like the back of your hand. Serve them genuinely, and you'll have "customers" and supporters forever!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.solriseessentials.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/solriseessentials/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SolRiseEssentials/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sol-rise-essentials/
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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