Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Eva Ozon. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Eva , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How do you think about cost-management? Growing a business is always exciting, but often businesses run into issues when costs grow faster than revenue – have you experienced such an episode? Any advice for other operators around how to keep costs in line?

Managing costs while growing a small business is like performing a balancing act in a circus. Have you ever had trucks drop off pallets of candle supplies to your house? LOL, I do all the time! When I started my venture, I opted to run it all myself from home to minimize initial risks and expenses. Unlike some entrepreneurs, I don’t have the privilege of financial support from family or a partner, so I’ve been juggling a full-time job alongside managing every aspect of my business – from making candles to fulfilling orders, attending pop ups, creating all the packaging designs, maintaining my website, and the list goes on. As demand for my products has grown, I find myself at a crucial juncture where scaling up production is necessary for sustained growth. However, this entails investing in more space outside of my home and additional help, which presents a significant financial risk. It’s a leap I’m willing to take to ensure the continued success of my business, but it’s also a decision that requires careful financial planning and consideration. But in the end, doing the hard work everywhere you can yourself pays off.

Eva , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My journey began in my birthplace of Poland and growing up in Chicago before settling in the sun-kissed skies of Los Angeles. Over the course of 18 years, I’ve immersed myself in the ever-evolving world of the fashion industry, refining my expertise in branding, concept development, and design. My diverse background has laid the foundation for my personal venture, Choice Blooms®, a brand that embodies a fusion of transparency, aesthetics, and sustainability. It is a plant-centric brand that caters to discerning individuals who appreciate both transparency and aesthetics. My mission is to elevate your sensory experiences, from the alluring scents of our candles to the luxurious softness of our clothing, all while ensuring they are crafted from the finest choice blooms.

Meticulously crafted, each candle is a fusion of top-tier non-toxic fragrance and essential oils, blended with a unique combination of hemp, coconut, and soy wax. Our choice of hemp seed oil brings a new dimension to candle-making, offering a slow, steady burn and an extended lifespan compared to conventional alternatives.

What truly sets Choice Blooms® apart, is our dedication to innovation and eco-conscious practices. Our hemp wicks, crafted from 100% organic hemp and beeswax, fogo the toxins and soot associated with traditional cotton wicks, providing a clean, sustainable flame that burns bright. Furthermore, our commitment to sustainability extends beyond the candle itself to our reusable glass vessels, designed to add a touch of groovy flair to any space while offering endless possibilities for repurposing.

From the allure of our candles to the sumptuous softness of our clothing line, each Choice Blooms® product is a testament to our unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and the art of mindful living. Explore our collection and discover the essence of Choice Blooms®—where luxury meets consciousness, and every choice blooms anew.

For a glimpse into our world and to explore our offerings, visit www.choiceblooms.com

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Pivoting in business is often a necessary maneuver, especially when faced with unforeseen challenges beyond one’s control. A few years back, I encountered such a situation with Choice Blooms.

Originally, I envisioned Choice Blooms as an organic hemp rolling paper company, aiming to add an element of enjoyment to the consumption experience without directly dealing with cannabis products. However, the complexities of the cannabis industry, particularly concerning financial transactions, proved to be a significant obstacle. Due to stringent regulations, my credit card processor and bank terminated our relationship, citing concerns over the legal status of our products in the eyes of regulatory bodies like the DEA.

Faced with this setback, I realized the importance of adaptability in entrepreneurship. Rather than succumbing to the challenges, I saw an opportunity to explore alternative avenues within the realm of sustainable products. This led me to broaden the scope of Choice Blooms, delving into fragrances for candles, fibers for clothing, and beyond.

Though initially daunting, this pivot ultimately opened doors to new opportunities and expanded our reach beyond what I had originally imagined. It’s a testament to the resilience and creativity required in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of business.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building an audience on social media is indeed a journey marked by continuous evolution and genuine connections. My approach has been to prioritize authenticity over virality, aiming for lasting relationships with those who engage with my brand. Consistency in messaging and updates plays a crucial role in maintaining this connection, serving as a digital diary of my business’s journey.

While I may not always have the capacity to post every day, I’ve found value in enlisting the help of individuals with social media expertise. Collaborating with such individuals has not only lightened the load but also brought fresh perspectives to my brand’s story. it’s not just about the number of followers or likes; it’s about cultivating meaningful connections and adding value to the lives of your audience.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.choiceblooms.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/choiceblooms/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eva-ozon-49a1177/

Image Credits
Image credits: Maggie Zulovic + David Do