We were lucky to catch up with Gloria Lewis recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Gloria, thanks for joining us today. Any thoughts about whether to ask friends and family to support your business. What’s okay in your view?

As entrepreneurs, we often embark on our business journeys with high hopes and expectations, anticipating the unwavering support of our closest circles—our family and friends. After all, who else would champion our dreams more fervently than those who know us best right? However, my experiences and reality of garnering support from family and friends in the for my business was a complex and sometimes challenging road to navigate.

In the initial stages of my entrepreneurial journey, I found myself grappling with unexpected obstacles when seeking support from family and friends. Instead of the enthusiastic encouragement I had expected, I encountered skepticism and even resistance from some family members. Questions about my product pricing, overall effectiveness, requests for discounts, or even outright dismissal of my business endeavors and accomplishments became a common theme. I had experiences where family members said to me “Why did they choose you for that?” or questioning the quality of my products.

I had to come to terms with the realization that the enthusiastic support I thought would be there, might not always come from the expected sources, my family and friends. In the world of retail and e-commerce, I discovered that my most consistent and steadfast supporters/customers often emerged from unexpected people—strangers who resonate with my products and vision. Unfortunately, contrary to my initial assumptions, not everyone in my inner circle championed my entrepreneurial endeavors.

Faced with this reality, I quickly learned an invaluable lesson: the importance of self-reliance and unwavering belief in my business. Rather than seeking external validation, I became my own devoted advocate, recognizing that the success of my business, ultimately rested on my shoulders alone. Embracing this mindset empowered me to weather the storms of doubt and negativity, providing encouragement and perseverance for me to forge ahead despite the challenges. I became focused in my mindset that I only had myself to depend on for my business to grow and succeed.

Indeed, the journey of entrepreneurship is often characterized by solitary triumphs and milestones, celebrated in the quiet moments of reflection. While it’s natural to desire recognition and validation from those closest to us, I came to realize that their perspectives do not define the worth or potential of my business. Each accomplishment, no matter how small, served as a testament to my dedication and perseverance, propelling me closer to my goals. Anytime I achieved a milestone or accomplishment, my first thought was to share the news with my family and friends. But this was also met with hesitation because I did not feel supported in my business, so I felt as though my achievements would not be celebrated.

However, amidst the lack of support, there were beacons of unwavering support—loyal family members and friends who stood by me through thick and thin. Their support and belief in my products and unwavering encouragement became the cornerstone of my resilience. Their patronage, whether through regular orders or word-of-mouth referrals, underscored the profound impact of genuine support in fostering the growth of my business. As my business thrives, I cherish my circle of supportive family and friends. They advocate for my products among their networks. Their loyalty and recommendations elevate awareness of my brand and validate the quality of my products.

These encounters taught me a valuable lesson early on: while familial approval is cherished, true business success hinges on self-reliance and unwavering belief in my products. Responding to inquiries about discounts, I likened my business to any other store—my products require time, effort, and investment. Just as one wouldn’t ask a retailer for free merchandise, the same principle applies to my creations.

Despite encountering naysayers, my business remains my #1 passion, marked by each milestone and success. However, celebrating achievements with certain individuals yielded mixed reactions. I recall one instance where a loved one admitted, “I don’t want to hear you talk about your business.” This remark, though disheartening, fueled my determination to prove the skeptics wrong.

In hindsight, I’ve come to appreciate that while the journey of entrepreneurship may be solitary at times, it is also enriched by the bonds forged with those who champion our cause. Whether from unexpected sources or cherished allies, every gesture of support serves to reaffirm the significance of my endeavors and embolden us to reach greater heights.

To aspiring entrepreneurs facing similar dynamics, remember that familial support comes in various forms. Embrace those who champion your vision and persevere in proving your skeptics wrong. As my journey unfolds, I remain grateful for both the challenges and the unwavering support that shape my entrepreneurial path.

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.

I began creating skincare products for myself out of necessity for natural skin care products for sensitive skin. After researching the benefits of certain ingredients, I began formulating skincare products to soothe and heal all types of skin. It all began with a personal quest, a quest for the perfect skincare solution for sensitive skin that craved only the gentle touch of nature.
I am a passionate advocate for self-care, found myself navigating the maze of skincare aisles, searching for products that wouldn’t compromise the delicate balance of my skin. Frustrated with the lack of options, I decided to take matters into my own hands.

The journey wasn’t just about creating products; it was a labor of love dedicated to everyone who craved skincare treats as delightful and pure as the products in Kitt’s Kandy Shop™. My kitchen, once a hub for sweet creations, transformed into a skincare haven where lotions, serums, and balms became the new language of indulgence. I drew inspiration from ingredients that could be found in any kitchen, infusing each product with a touch of familiarity that were clean and organic.

Late nights were spent researching and creating the perfect skincare product for myself, and my journey took me from the ancient remedies of herbal remedies to the cutting-edge benefits of modern skincare science. Armed with knowledge and skin loving ingredients, I began to create formulations that weren’t just about pampering the skin; they were a healing balm for the soul.

The delicate balance of nature’s gifts became the cornerstone of Kitt’s Kandy Shop™ skincare creations. Each ingredient, meticulously chosen, played a role in the symphony of soothing and rejuvenation. My formulations became a testament to the belief that skincare should be a source of comfort, not a source of concern.

As I experimented with blends of botanical oils, extracts, and time-tested remedies, my creations transcended mere skincare—they became rituals of self-love. My journey was not only about creating products but about unveiling the profound connection between nature and skin, a connection that resonated with anyone seeking the embrace of pure, natural goodness.

At the core of Kitt’s Kandy Shops™ philosophy lay the belief that investing in your skin is an act of self-love, a ritual that deserved the purest of ingredients. My dedication to organic and all-natural elements became the soul of the Kandy Shop™, a tribute to the delicate canvas that is our skin. Kitt’s Kandy Shop™ emerged as Treats for Your Body. Inspired by a desire to honor and nourish our skin, I embarked on a journey to create a line of skincare treats that cleanse, exfoliate, and heal—a collection that mirrored the essence of all-natural indulgence.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

As an aspiring entrepreneur in the skincare industry, I quickly realized that the true key to growing my clientele lay in providing skincare solutions that delivered tangible results. Here’s how I turned this realization into a thriving business through a simple yet powerful strategy: Samples.

Crafting Effective Products:

When I embarked on my journey of creating skincare products, my mission was clear: to develop formulations that didn’t just look good on shelves but also delivered on their promises. I spent countless hours researching and testing ingredients, ensuring that each product I crafted was backed by science and designed to address specific skincare concerns. From acne-fighting serums to hydrating moisturizers, every formulation was a labor of love aimed at achieving one goal—customer satisfaction.

The Sampling Strategy:

Equipped with my carefully crafted products, I set out to build awareness to my brand in the market. However, in an industry saturated with options, catching the attention of potential customers was no easy feat. That’s when I decided to let my products speak for themselves. I began offering samples to anyone willing to give them a try—potential customers, brand ambassadors, and even loyal patrons. Little did I know, this simple act would become the cornerstone of my growth strategy.

Spreading the Word, One Sample at a Time:

As customers started using my products, the results spoke louder than any marketing campaign ever could. Satisfied with the visible improvements in their skin, they became my biggest advocates. From sharing their experiences on social media to recommending my products to friends and family, they played a pivotal role in spreading the word about my brand. Before long, the demand for my products grew, and with it, my clientele grew exponentially.

The Ripple Effect of Customer Satisfaction:

What started as a humble sampling strategy soon snowballed into a self-sustaining cycle of growth. As more customers experienced the transformative power of my products, the word-of-mouth referrals kept pouring in. This organic influx of new customers not only boosted sales but also solidified my brand’s reputation as a trusted skincare solution provider. In an industry where trust is currency, this was the ultimate validation of my efforts.

Looking Ahead:

As I reflect on the journey that brought me to where I am today, one thing is abundantly clear—the power of effective skincare cannot be overstated. By prioritizing product efficacy and leveraging the simple yet potent strategy of sampling, I was able to carve a niche for my brand in a competitive market. As I continue to innovate and evolve, I remain committed to the core principle that fueled my success from the very beginning—delivering skincare solutions that truly work.
In conclusion, in a world where trends come and go, the quest for flawless skin remains timeless. By staying true to the fundamental principle of providing effective skincare products, I not only grew my clientele but also forged lasting connections with customers who trust me to help them look and feel their best. And for that, I am forever grateful.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Building a strong reputation within any market, especially the skincare industry, is a result of several key factors. Here are some aspects that contributed to Kitt’s Kandy Shop™ build our reputation within our market. In an industry often shrouded in mystery and allure, one skincare brand dares to break the mold by embracing transparency as its guiding principle. At Kitt’s Kandy Shop™, we believe that honesty is the best policy, especially when it comes to what you put on your skin. From our organic and all-natural formulations to our unwavering commitment to openness, transparency isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation upon which we’ve built our reputation.

Our commitment to transparency plays a crucial role in brand loyalty and Kitt’s Kandy Shop™ vision. By openly sharing our ingredients, processes, and results, we’ve built trust with our customers. This transparency demonstrates integrity and a genuine concern for our customers’ well-being, which are highly valued qualities in skincare.

Product quality and efficacy are the cornerstones of Kitt’s Kandy Shop values. The effectiveness of anyone’s skincare products is paramount. Customers are more likely to trust and recommend a brand that consistently delivers visible results. Our focus on creating organic and all-natural formulations that work has earned us positive reviews and loyal customers.

Satisfied customers are our best advocates. When customers experience positive results with our products, they become enthusiastic ambassadors who share their experiences with friends and family. Word-of-mouth recommendations significantly boosted Kitt’s Kandy Shop™ reputation and attracted new customers.
We focus on consistency and reliability. Consistency in product quality, customer service, and brand messaging is essential. By consistently delivering on our promises and maintaining high standards, we’ve earned a reputation for reliability and trustworthiness.

Engagement and community building are effective ways to engage our customers and build brand awareness. Actively engaging with our customers and building a community around the Kitt’s Kandy Shop™ brand fosters a sense of belonging and loyalty. Responding to customer inquiries, listening to feedback, and creating a supportive environment strengthens our reputation and differentiates us from competitors.

In today’s market, consumers increasingly value ethical and sustainable business practices. Our commitment to using organic and all-natural ingredients aligns with these values, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and enhancing Kitt’s Kandy Shop™ brand’s reputation.

Providing accurate information is crucial educating our customers in not only our ingredients, but how to use our skincare products. Empowering customers with knowledge about skincare and ingredients demonstrates our commitment to their well-being beyond selling products. Educational content, whether through social media, blogs, or newsletters, positions our brand as an authority and builds credibility.

Reflecting on these aspects can further clarify what specifically contributed to building our reputation within our market. Leveraging these strengths and continuing to prioritize transparency and customer satisfaction will likely pave the way for sustained growth and success for Kitt’s Kandy Shop™.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kittskandyshop.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kittskandyshop/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloria-lewis-4163a7244/