We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Chelsea Jenkins. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Chelsea below.
Chelsea, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s talk about keeping costs under control when growing. How have you managed to keep costs from getting out of control?
When I started my business I had no clue of the importance of creating a budget, analyzing expenses or what a Profit Loss Statement was. I was not conscious of the cost of goods vs. profit margins. I operated for over a year without increasing my prices due to the market value for the economy. During Covid-19, I sold goods as low as $5 but was valued at $10. This did not include operational cost or labor and cause out of pocket expenses from my personal accounts. As I grew as a business owner, I learned how to budget correctly, increase prices on high demand items while also providing diverse payment methods. As the cost of living increases, products and good are as well. This does not mean the average consumer’s monthly income is increasing. With that assumption, I initiated installment payment options to provide flexibility with cost increases. I encourage every business owner of any industry to create great financial habits. This will help you determine how you can keep your cost down.
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.
Im Chelsea Jenkins, Owner of Bodied by Breon. I started out in the fragrance industry in 2019 without any knowledge. I accidentally created a profitable business during Covid-19 that is still thriving daily. I now have my own fragrance line that’s very distinctive amongst other competitors . I strive to provide great customer service for each customer because without them my business wouldn’t be excelling. I personally respond to all inquiries, issues and compliments with a timely manner to maintain customer retention . One consistent obstacle I face is getting my customers in the habit of ordering online. Before I had a website, I was processing order requests by email, text messages or social media. As I grew, it was difficult to maintain so the website was implemented. I’m proud of every milestone accomplished thus far. Currently, we are expanding our product line and introducing new packaging for our customers. I’m so excited to see the response from our supporters as we have worked diligently to solved some of their concerns regarding this expansion.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
Recently I relocated my business to Atlanta Georgia from South Carolina . This was an amazing business decision however, this pivot caused a few setbacks. I had to update all of my business filings, find a new location to operate, and leave behind my biggest supporters. It has taken approximately 3-6 months to rebrand and adjust to the transition. I’m so optimistic of the new business endeavors Georgia has to offer.
How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?
I can communicate directly to my customers though a chat to email feature on my website. This chat creates a notification for each user login as well as sends an email notification to the provided email address. This feature has increased response times and maintains customer satisfaction. I also have a private mailing list that sends alerts and secret sales to my loyal clients before the general public has access. We also offer a loyalty rewards program that is redeemed for discounts and free products. My customers identify as #BodiedBesties which is a culture that was created to bond our loyalty to the brand.
Contact Info:
- Website: Bodiedbybreon.com
- Instagram: BodiedbyBreon
- Facebook: BodiedbyBreon