We were lucky to catch up with Sofie Whitfield recently and have shared our conversation below.
Sofie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?
It all started with an estate sale in 2021. My husband brought home an LED light therapy mask as a surprise gift, though at first, I had no idea what it was – a Halloween prop? Some strange gadget? But a quick Google search revealed it was an advanced LED mask, and I learned about the incredible benefits of LED therapy for skin.
Dealing with acne and combination skin myself, I was eager to try it. Soon, I saw dramatic changes: my acne diminished, scars faded, and even my fine lines softened. I was hooked! But as I continued using it, the mask’s limitations became clear – it was bulky, needed to stay plugged in, and sometimes glitched. With a new baby and limited time, it just wasn’t practical anymore.
Then, inspiration struck. I’d recently sold my business, and my husband suggested: why not create my own LED company? After extensive research, clinical trials, and finding the right ethical manufacturer, we developed a product that’s FDA-cleared, lightweight, hands-free, and cordless. Perfect for a mom of of two with two companies to run!
In January 2024, I launched the company, and we’ve already helped over 1,000 women experience the glow – earning 5-star reviews across the board!
Sofie, 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 into the product and online marketing world was inspired by my desire for a balanced life that prioritizes family, travel, and meaningful work. I started two companies: SWSB Solutions, a marketing consultancy for small businesses, and Val Fleury Skincare, specializing in LED light therapy.
Val Fleury Skincare was born from my own skincare challenges, leading to our FDA-cleared, hands-free LED mask. SWSB Solutions offers tailored marketing strategies that help small businesses grow through social media, influencer partnerships, and lead generation.
To be honest, much of my success is thanks to my husband, Tim. I’ve never met anyone who believes in me as wholeheartedly as he does. He’s the type of partner who would genuinely support even my wildest ideas—if I proposed a bedazzled clothing line for gerbils, he’d honestly believe I could make it profitable! It’s true what they say: an ambitious woman either has a supportive partner or none at all. I feel so blessed to have Tim as my sounding board, unpaid team member, and biggest fan. Being a business owner can be incredibly challenging, and having someone who always encourages me to believe in myself has been invaluable. I’m so grateful for Tim and everything he brings to our lives and my journey.
What sets my brands apart is our commitment to real results and genuine connection. I use my skincare products daily, staying closely connected to our clients’ experiences, and my team provides personal, hands-on support. I’m proud to have built two businesses that allow me to be fully present for my family while earning the loyalty of 5-star clients.
For potential clients and followers, my brands are designed with authenticity and practicality. Whether you’re looking to elevate your skincare routine or need expert marketing support, I’m here to provide high-quality, seamless solutions.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
Our products truly work, and with high customer satisfaction, most of our orders come from word-of-mouth referrals and influencer partnerships. When a product delivers results, it speaks for itself!
I personally use our products daily. I wear my mask each evening to unwind with my family, and I use our wand in the morning to boost serum absorption. Being a daily user helps me understand our customers’ experiences firsthand.
We also prioritize personalized support. Our customer service team is always ready to help with tutorials or usage tips, connecting users with a real person—a rarity these days!
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
Absolutely! After nearly 12 years as a brick-and-mortar fitness business owner, one day, I realized it was time for something new. My kids come first, and I love traveling for extended periods. But my former business, Synergy180 in Ocean Beach, demanded a lot of my time. With a new baby, whom I was determined to keep out of daycare until age two, things quickly became overwhelming—especially during a two-month trip abroad.
I realized I couldn’t do it all, at least not like that. I needed to transition to a business model that was flexible, location-independent, and didn’t rely on a physical presence or staff.
So, I entered the product and online marketing world, launching two companies: SWSB Solutions, providing marketing support for small businesses, and Val Fleury Skincare, an LED light therapy company.
It’s been almost a year since we launched, and I’ve been able to be the mother and wife I aspire to be. I’ve taken nearly four months of traveling the world, all while seamlessly running my businesses!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://valfleuryskin.com/ & https://swsbsolutions.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valfleuryskincare & https://www.instagram.com/swsbsolutions & https://www.instagram.com/sofie_whitfield/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sofiewhitfield/
Image Credits
Image credits : Camila Badaro IO Project