Indie Business Network members are amazing. While I have met dozens of them in person, I'm connected to many hundreds virtually. They all stand out for different reasons, and this week's featured member is no exception. I'm excited to introduce you to Kelli Parisian, founder of Parisian's Pure Indulgence in Woodland Hills, California, outside Los Angeles.
Kelli stands out for many reasons, but perhaps the most significant (aside from her products, which we'll get to) is that she looks fabulous and clearly invests in the practice of self-care. In this interview, not only will you learn about Kelli's business, but you'll also learn about her perspective on self-care for woman entrepreneurs. Let's go!
Q1 TELL US ABOUT PARISIAN'S PURE INDULGENCE
Parisian's Pure Indulgence, specializes in Timeless Beauty (otherwise known as anti-aging) treatments for men and women. We have proudly been in business eight years. Our products can be found in upscale salons, spas, gift boutiques and at our web store. I work mainly from my home-based office. Four afternoons a week, I work in a lovely salon as a skin care consultant and manicurist. I've been in the beauty industry for 35 years now!
Our best selling products are our Timeless Beauty products. We have a complete line of treatments for both body and face, but our treatments for anti-aging are our best sellers. I believe the reason is, many of us (myself included), have sensitive skin and yet we want extraordinary results in a pure product.
HOW IMPORTANT IS IT FOR WOMAN ENTREPRENEURS TO INTENTIONALLY AND PROACTIVELY CARE FOR THEMSELVES?
An often overlooked aspect of being a successful business owner is the importance of self-care. I know many Indies are mothers of young children — trying to run a household, keep husband happy, AND run a business. Wow … that's a lot! I'm 58 years old now, and my children are grown and on their own. But, early on, I learned the importance of carving out some “Me” time. During my first few years in business, it was a challenge, but I made sure to keep up my appearance. Whether it was making sure I got my hair cut and colored (remembering a new style every once in a while is a pick me up), or purchasing a flattering new outfit … ladies, this IS important.
Then there is exercise. I don't particularly like exercise (unless it's dancing), but I do it three times a week. I walk with my girlfriend and take a “Body Pump Class” at the gym. I make self-care a priority!! There really is something to that endorphin thing! You just feel better, period.
While your outside appearance is important, it's your inner beauty that will keep you glowing when the outside starts to fade. You'll find me reading books on personal growth (The Four Agreements is a good one!), and most importantly, relying on my faith to get me through, and keep me joyful in all circumstances. My spiritual life keeps me from getting too focused on the external.
How you show up as a person will be remembered far longer than how you show up as a business woman.
Q3 WHAT BUSINESS SUCCESS TIP CAN YOU SHARE THAT YOU WISH SOMEONE HAD TOLD YOU BEFORE YOU STARTED PARISIAN'S PURE INDULGENCE?
Don't be everything to everyone.
In the beginning, every time someone asked for a “blah blah blah” product, I would make sure we carried it! Do not do this.
In all honesty, I think I may have too many products in my line, and it's something I'm evaluating now. If I had it to do over, I would start with a few products and introduce new products very slowly.
How you show up as a person will be remembered far longer than how you show up as a business woman.
”
Kelli Parisian, Parisian's Pure Indulgence
Q4 WHAT SORTS OF THINGS DO YOU LIKE TO DO WHEN YOU'RE NOT WORKING?
I consider myself a “Foodie,” so if I'm not working, I'm whipping up a new recipe, creating many of my own, or I'm in my organic garden, taking care of my “babies.” I grow many of the fruits and vegetables I like to eat. Because I enjoy food so much, I balance it out with my other passion…ballroom dance! Tango, salsa, cha-cha, Rumba, Swing….love them all!
Q5 WHAT IS THE MOST VALUABLE PIECE OF BUSINESS ADVICE YOU CAN GIVE SOMEONE WHO IS STARTING OUT TODAY?
The most valuable piece of advice I can give is actually two-fold. First, find a mentor and/or talk to as many people as possible who are also entrepreneurs. Pick their brains and don't be afraid to ask questions, even if you think they may sound foolish. Second, remember there is a big difference between cash flow and profit. You can be raking in a lot of sales and not have any profit to show for it. Not a good idea. Learn the difference between making money and making a profit and then price your products accordingly.
Q6 WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO KEEP YOUR BUSINESS GOING WHEN THE MOST CHALLENGING TIMES COME YOUR WAY?
I remember why I started my business in the first place. I wanted clean and pure products to use on my clients in my salon business. I wanted products that would set me apart from the competition. I also wanted a business that would help people with sensitive skin, and provide another stream of income for me. In today's economy, it's very important to have multiple streams of revenue!
Also, a few years ago I created a vision board of what I want to create in my life in the next 5 years. Of the 20 things on the board, I've made a reality of 16 of them. When I get discouraged I look at what I've accomplished, verses, what I have not.
Q7 WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT BEING A MEMBER OF THE INDIE BUSINESS NETWORK?
I enjoy the learning most. Donna Maria's Indie Business Network offers so much to its members. Everything from classes on keeping up with industry trends, to legal concerns Indies need to keep current on. I've been a member for many years, but during a lean year, I let my membership lapse, and WOW, did I miss being part of the community!
I got behind on social media trends and I missed the camaraderie. As small business owners, we know the challenges, as well as the joys. It's nice to have a place to gather and share our learning — and sometimes, our frustrations. Lately, I'm enjoying the exclusive member Facebook page and the support we give and receive there.
LEARN MORE ABOUT PARISIAN'S PURE INDULGENCE
