Our member, Selena Cozart O’Shaughnessy of Salome's Simply Delightful Creations in Charlottesville, Virginia, was recently featured in the C-VILLE (for Charlottesville, Virginia) Weekly, a local newspaper in her area. Selena's show stopping smile is beautifully captured in this image, by photographer Sarah Cramer Shields.
Salome's Simply Delightful Creations is a woman-owned business specializing in handmade bath and body products. Selena's specialty is handmade “cold process” soaps made the old-fashioned way using fresh vegetable oils, essential oils, fragrance oils, and different kinds of natural and cosmetic grade colorants. She also features hair care products designed with natural and African American hair in mind. Selena took a moment to share a bit more about her business in this quick interview.
dM: What does it mean to be featured in your local paper?
Selena:
This is an amazing opportunity. I see it as a great way to share a little bit of my story. I hope that it inspires others.
dM: How do people in your local community, and your friends and family members, support your business?
Selena:
Some of my friends have become loyal customers. They have provided referrals and have hosted soap parties. This helps me to get the word out about my business.
My husband helps me set up at the market and gives my products as gifts to friends and family. He loves my creativity and helps out around the house when I am making soap and running my business. We make a great team!
dM: How has being a member of the Indie Business Network helped your business grow?
Selena:
I have been a member of the Indie Business Network since I started my business. Indie Business Network has exposed me to a variety of experts and encouraging colleagues across the nation, and around the world. I have learned about everything from using social media to promote my business to wholesaling.
At times when I am discouraged or overwhelmed by the realities of entrepreneurship, I can reach out and gain access to a resource, get a word of advice or encouragement, or offer help to someone else through the Indie Business Network. The atmosphere is always positive and professional.
Meet Selena
You can connect with Selena at her Facebook page.
Read the C-VILLE Weekly article here.
QUESTIONS
1. Have you ever been featured in your local paper? Did being featured help you and your business in any way?
2. How do your family members help you in your business?
3. Where do you turn when you need professional resources and encourage to help your business grow?
Please share your thoughts and ideas below. We love hearing from you!
