We were lucky to catch up with Hakerra Singleton recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hakerra, appreciate you joining us today. Was there a moment in your career that meaningfully altered your trajectory? If so, we’d love to hear the backstory.

A defining moment in my career was when I realized that our consistency and presence on Social Media is equally as important as our skincare products. I was not aware that having great customer service and awesome products was enough to generate consumer loyalty. I know that sounds naïve but it’s true. I often ask our followers for their input on products or accessories that we are considering. While participating in a pop up shop a woman shared that she really likes our presentation and products but we are sometimes an afterthought because she doesn’t see us on her timeline frequently. That was pivotal because the bruise to our ego was a true defining moment. It was in that moment that I realized that having a presence on Social Media was the key to staying relevant in an evolving culture. That interaction changed the trajectory of how we engage with Social Media. We’ve learned that there is power in posting valuable content.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your background and context?

I am, Hakerra Singleton-Horton. The mother of Emaje Singleton of HabitsCo & Emaje Naturals. I represent Generation X and Iommunity am the COO of Emaje Naturals. Encompassing over 20 years of business experience I continue to volunteer in my community and remain a charitable giver. With academics at the top of my family, I am a member of a Collegiate Honor Society who earned a Bachelorette Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Management. My active goals are to continue to build generational wealth and to teach others through their desired skill set. I have unwavering ethics and integrity with a humble heart and fearless determination. A true rose in concrete.

Emaje Naturals is a brand that is derived from love. Emaje and I have very sensitive skin. We had tried many “hypoallergenic” products that never produced the lasting coverage promised or the nutrients that our skin required. Most products were either watered down or contained artificial ingredients that would further irritated my skin.

My mother and I had a conversation and she reminded me of my childhood struggles with skincare products. That was an “Aha moment” for me. I asked my mother how she was able to soothe my skin. Her answer was classic “go back to the basics!” This was an impactful moment for me. At that very moment, I created my first batch of Whipped Shea Butter.

We purposely use plant-based ingredients in their purest form like raw Shea Butter and Coconut Oil. Our skin and hair are reaping the benefits. The benefactors from our products will restore, repair, and rejuvenate yours as well. Individually, all of the ingredients provide nourishment. When combined they encompass the superfood needed for our body’s biggest organ. We are proud to create body cleansers, whipped body butters and scrubs, hair and body oils along with body accessories.

What we want potential clients and followers to know is that we are committed to diminishing synthetic chemicals that have the potential to harm humans, animals and plants. We believe in living wholistic lives and our preserving our surrounding ecosystems. For this very reason, Emaje Naturals was created.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start?

The initial capital used to fund Emaje Naturals was from my personal saving account. I am not a financial risk taker so I did not want to owe anyone. I would budget for things on our wish list and gradually purchase them. Our first big investment was our Kitchen Aid Mixer (and that was bought on a payment plan). I remember researching spatulas, cutting boards, eco friendly cleaning supplies, etc. We have had a very humble beginning.

Do you think you’d choose a different profession or specialty if you were starting now?

If I could go back, I would always choose the same profession. I believe in investing into yourself. The education, exposure and experience from building this company/brand has been instrumental for me. I have evolved personally and professionally. When people share their testimonies of how our products have enhanced their wellness journey it is heartwarming for me. To know that your creation or interaction has helped someone feel confident, soothe their discomfort or empowered them is a huge reason why we stay motivated.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.emajenaturals.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emajenaturals
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emaje.naturals
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/emajenaturals
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRn70yZiJ5E_dmx9BaW_ruQ

Image Credits
Emaje Naturals