We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ashley Saunders a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Ashley thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your business sooner or later
Dark Raven Products was established in 2020 during the pandemic. At this time in my life I was looking for more ways to make money and also a way out of working for someone else. At this time every job I’ve worked I’ve never received a raise, at each job I was able to work independently while also preforming different tasks that wasn’t in my job description. I worked hard and did not receive the pay to reflect that, so I started to research on how to start a business doing something that I loved to do. I spent hours daily on research and eventually started to buy the materials I needed to started this business. I spent half of each paycheck to buy everything I needed. At times I do wish I started Dark Raven Products earlier but I also feel that it was the right time to start my business when I did. I’m forever thankful to everyone who has invested into Dark Raven Products and who has supported me as well.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers
Hey Hey, My name is Ashley and I’m the owner of Dark Raven Products. We make handcrafted products for everyone. All of our products are all natural no alcohol or preservatives added. We offer Hair Oils, Beard Oils, Beard Wash & Conditioner, Body Butters, Body Creams, Body Oils, Body Scrubs, Aroma Sprays, Bath Salts, Moisturizing Bar Soap for Body and Face, Whipped Soap, Whipped Soap Scrubs, Moisturizing Lip Kits (scrub, balm, lip mask, & tool). We also offer exclusively Intention Products (Prosperity, Love, & Healing) such as Sprays, Kits, & Oils.
We take pride in the ability to have every product customizable for people who are allergic to certain ingredients such as Aloe or Coconut. We also can make any product you like the smell of in a different product. ( you like the smell of this Aroma spray but want it in a body scrub we can do that) We love to talk with our customers and get feedback so we can continue to improve our products and presentation.
We are proud to be “Perfectly Imperfect”
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
Pop-Up Shops, I swear by doing. Any pop-up you can in a good location will always be good for your business . By doing events you get the chance to set up your business so people can come meet you in person and ask you questions or test/feel your product. You also get to network with other businesses owners and create relationships. This has helped my business so much. I have met so many people both customers and other business owners.
We’d love to hear about you met your business partner.
My best friend Ron has been my support since I started this business. He has pushed me to keep going and to try everything that has come to my mind. He is the reason Dark Raven Products has made it to where it is right now and constantly changing. We brainstorm ideas daily to make every product better. Having at least one person to support you and push you to be the best you can be and beyond that is more than I could ever ask for.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.Darkravenproducts.com
- Instagram: Dark.Raven.nails
Image Credits
Monique Saunders for all Photos