We recently connected with Jessica Washington and have shared our conversation below.
Jessica, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.
The journey of how I came up with the idea for my businesses, I Am Enough and More LLC and Louvetine Cosmetics, is one filled with inspiration, determination, and a desire to make a positive impact.
It all began with my small novelty company, I Am Enough and More LLC. I noticed a lack of empowering and uplifting products in the market, and I felt a strong personal connection to the concept of self-worth and self-acceptance. I wanted to create a brand that would not only offer beautiful products but also inspire individuals to embrace their uniqueness and believe in themselves.
The circumstances surrounding the birth of I Am Enough and More LLC were quite significant. I had experienced moments of self-doubt and insecurity in my own life, and I realized that many others faced similar struggles. I wanted to create a business that would serve as a beacon of positivity and remind people that they are enough, just as they are.
Emotions ran high during the early stages of my business. I felt a mix of excitement, nervousness, and determination. I poured my heart and soul into every product, ensuring that they reflected the message of self-love and empowerment that I wanted to convey. Seeing my customers’ positive responses and the impact it had on their lives fueled my motivation to continue and expand.
As I witnessed the success and growth of I Am Enough and More LLC, I began to think about new avenues for expansion. That’s when the idea for Louvetine Cosmetics was born. I noticed a gap in the market for cosmetics that not only emphasized outer beauty but also celebrated inner beauty and self-expression.
The logic behind my decision to start Louvetine Cosmetics was multifaceted. Firstly, I believed that by offering a unique approach to black-owned cosmetics, one that focused on self-love and authenticity, I could differentiate my brand from the competition. Secondly, I saw an opportunity to solve a problem by creating products that catered to individuals who valued both inner and outer beauty.
The excitement surrounding Louvetine Cosmetics stemmed from the prospect of providing individuals with a platform to express themselves authentically. I envisioned a brand that celebrated diversity, encouraged self-expression, and empowered individuals to embrace their uniqueness.
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.
Jessica Washington is a multi-talented individual who has made a mark in various fields. As a graduating senior at Texas Southern University, she has pursued her passion for business by majoring in Business Administration-Management. Jessica’s academic journey showcases her dedication and commitment to personal growth and professional development.
Hailing from Atlanta, GA, and now residing in Houston, Jessica’s journey is a testament to her resilience and determination. As a single mother of two sons, she embodies strength and serves as an inspiration to others who face similar challenges.
Jessica’s creativity and talent extend beyond academia. She is a published, award-winning author, captivating readers with her insightful and thought-provoking works. Her literary achievements highlight her ability to connect with others through powerful storytelling and bring important messages to life.
In addition to her success as an author, Jessica is a passionate entrepreneur. She is the proud owner of two businesses: Louvetine Cosmetics and I Am Enough and More. Through Louvetine Cosmetics, she offers high-quality beauty products that empower individuals to feel confident and embrace their unique beauty. With I Am Enough and More, Jessica spreads a message of self-acceptance and self-love, inspiring others to recognize their worth and embrace their true selves.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Jessica’s personal experiences have shaped her into the remarkable individual she is today. As a former foster care recipient, she understands the challenges faced by those navigating such circumstances. Her resilience and determination have propelled her forward, allowing her to create positive change in her life and serve as a role model for others.
Jessica is also an active member of the LGBTQ community, embracing her identity and advocating for inclusivity and acceptance. Her commitment to fostering a more compassionate and understanding society is commendable.
Through her journey as a student, author, entrepreneur, and advocate, Jessica Washington exemplifies strength, resilience, and the power of self-belief. Her story and accomplishments serve as an inspiration to others, reminding them that no obstacle is insurmountable and that embracing one’s true self is a path to personal fulfillment.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
Starting my candle brand was an exciting endeavor, but it quickly turned into a challenging journey that required a significant pivot. As my launch day approached, I found myself feeling lost and directionless. To make matters worse, the candle jars I had ordered had not arrived, and I had 80 preorders waiting to be fulfilled. With Christmas just around the corner, I knew I had to take swift action to ensure the candles reached my customers in time.
Determined not to disappoint my customers, I made the decision to order a different type of jar that was available for immediate delivery. It was a risk, as it meant deviating from my original vision, but it was a necessary step to salvage the situation. With the new jars on their way, I had to act fast.
The night before Christmas, I rolled up my sleeves and stayed up all night, tirelessly pouring wax, carefully adding scents, and meticulously placing wicks into each jar. The stress was palpable, but my determination to fulfill those preorders by Christmas morning kept me going.
As the sun began to rise, I had a collection of freshly made candles ready to be delivered. However, I realized that some of them wouldn’t make it in time if I relied solely on shipping services. So, I made the decision to personally deliver those candles to ensure they arrived before Christmas morning.
Despite the stress and uncertainty, witnessing the joy on my customers’ faces when they received their candles made it all worth it. The pivot I made in the face of adversity turned out to be a defining moment for my brand. It taught me the importance of adaptability and perseverance, and it solidified my commitment to providing exceptional customer service.
How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?
I funded my business primarily through my personal income from working, as well as a small investment from my savings. By diligently saving a portion of my earnings and carefully managing my expenses, I was able to accumulate the initial capital needed to launch my business. Additionally, I decided to allocate a portion of my time each day to work on my business, which allowed me to invest my skills and expertise without incurring additional costs. This combination of personal income and a modest investment enabled me to kickstart my entrepreneurial journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jessicadwashington.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.comigshid=mzrlodbinwflza==/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.m.washington.7?mibextid=b06tZ0
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicadwashington
- Twitter: @whenloveisnt
- Other: https://louvetinecosmetics.com/
Image Credits
Photos By Roy T Williams