One of the best ways to be inspired to make yourself and your business the best they can be is to learn from the success of others. That’s why we love to spotlight our members here at the blog. Today, you’ll meet Katherine Corkill, founder of Sterling Minerals in Nampa, Idaho. Meet Katherine, her lovely brand and some of her products.
Katherine has been a member of the Indie Business Network since September 2009. I asked her to share a bit about her life and her line of products. Here's a little of what she said:
Q1 TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS
Sterling Minerals began out of a need related to painful skin treatments I endured. Conventional makeup was great at concealing, but caused discomfort and prolonged my healing time. I began researching mineral makeup products and decided to make some for mature women dealing with sensitive skin issues. Through much trial and error, I created my first “Rose Petal” formulas which more than a certain finish on the skin … they actually address different skin types. Happily, women have had great success with them.
Out of relief and joy, the feedback I get from women daily helps me continue to strive to help them achieve a youthful complexion, while also reducing skin problems and discomfort.
Q2 WHAT ARE YOUR BEST SELLING PRODUCTS?
My 3 Rose Petal formula foundations are the mainstay and my best selling products. Our recently launched display packages provide the professionalism desired by estheticians and med spas. Our new advanced technology website allows us to hear back directly from our customers. They tell us what they have discovered about our products and why they return, even after trying another brand. This feedback helps us continue to offer great products and customer service to customers old and new.
Q3 WHAT SORTS OF THINGS DO YOU LIKE TO DO WHEN YOU'RE NOT WORKING?
I love spending time with my best friend, my husband of 35 years who has been my total support system — and he loves spending time with me.
He has joined me as Sterling Minerals' head of marketing and public relations, and it has been a perfect fit. We love hanging out at coffee shops, poking around the Pottery Barn, taking trips to Mexico, and spending time with my daughter, who is also our product photographer, whenever we can. Basically, my business has turned into a family event and we are all having a lot of fun. Our marketing and business research is never ending, even if it is over a glass of wine and a well prepared meal. I never get tired of my work…. my work is a blast.
Q4 WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT BEING A MEMBER OF THE INDIE BUSINESS NETWORK?
The other Indie Business Network members! So much input, great advice and shared stories. I am especially appreciative of Donna Maria for founding this network of entrepreneurs, and creating a resource where others can share, cry, laugh, vent, lend a hand and encourage and empower women to move forward with their dreams. I especially have come to appreciate the private members only Facebook group, where it is safe to go and ask others for help or to vent if we maybe having an off day.
I simply LOVE it all! Thanks again and thanks to all the other women who share the dream of owning their own successful business. We are all truly blessed to be in each others lives.
You can learn more about Indie Business Network membership and the benefits we offer (including affordable product liability insurance, coaching, and mentoring) at this link. Learn more about our entry level Indie Protégé program here.
LEARN MORE ABOUT STERLING MINERALS