We recently connected with Krystal Onuorji and have shared our conversation below.
Krystal , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Coming up with the idea is so exciting, but then comes the hard part – executing. Too often the media ignores the execution part and goes from idea to success, skipping over the nitty, gritty details of executing in the early days. We think that’s a disservice both to the entrepreneurs who built something amazing as well as the public who isn’t getting a realistic picture of what it takes to succeed. So, we’d really appreciate if you could open up about your execution story – how did you go from idea to execution?
The idea of launching my own online business came about when me and a friend were brainstorming on what type of business I should start. Originally, I came up with jewelry but I always knew I wanted to incorporate clothing and apparel eventually. I started first by researching different vendors and eventually figuring out what kind of items that I liked and felt were currently in style. Some of the main steps I took that allowed me to launch the business was: figuring out my top ten items that were my favorite. During the research phase, I also made up my mind on the business name, creation of the website, social media handles, and packaging. It was important to lock in my business on every handle so that everything was consistent. Because I am an overthinker I decided to stick with the basics and start small and very modest. I knew I wanted to be realistic and not go super grand because I wanted to be able to maintain all cots and expenses. I told myself as the business grew, I would be able to do more grand things over time. Once these steps were completed I felt more comfortable launching. It took me a few months before I decided to officially launch. The day that I actually did, was sporadic. I was literally at my friends place pacing back and forth and just decided to do it!
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’ve always been a fan of jewelry, fashion, and beauty since forever. My dad and grandmother were very influential to me fashion wise and also maintaining upkeep. I wanted to start off with jewelry first, just to gain some experience and learn as much as I could before later expanding in to clothing and apparel. Currently, we sell jewelry, clothing and apparel. Items like: earrings, necklaces, dresses, jumpsuits, tops and much more. I believe what sets EssxTheBrand apart from others is that we try to be open in providing trendy items to all types of women by providing a variety or versatile pieces you can wear on any type of occasion.
I’m most proud of continuing to see it through no matter what I may personally face. I want potential clients to know that EssxTheBrand provides you with a variety of quality jewelry and clothing for any occasion. We also provide fast shipping domestic and now internationally.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
A lesson that I had to unlearn was reprogramming my mind and my beliefs. I had to understand that putting myself out there more on social media was noting to be ashamed about. I grew up in a conservative and religious household. I was heavily involved in church and my grandmother mainly raised me. I couldn’t wear my hair down, wear make up, or wear anything that showed too much skin growing up.
It took me awhile to fully feel comfortable with putting myself out there. I felt guilty and I felt that people would view me in a negative or provocative light. I had to unlearn certain aspects of my conservative upbringing and open myself up to being fearless and doing what I was passionate about doing, no matter what anyone had to say. I had to trust myself and my vision.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
The most effective strategy for growing clientele, in my opinion, is to be consistent in posting good content on social media, and learning how to run ads and market. In my opinion, these two main things is what’s helping me effectively grow my business.
Contact Info:
- Website: essxthebrand.com
- Instagram: @essxthebrand
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/essxthebrand/