I'm thrilled to introduce you Glow Girls to Benardett K. Jno-Finn, Founder of Nica Naturals. She has definitely been a true inspiration to me with her business savvy mixed with passion for her natural creations. In just three years, she has created a name for herself and proved her business sustainable in today's market. I hope you all enjoy this interview and begin to ignite the fuel to your passion.
- When did you first get involved with hair and skin care products?
You could say that I’ve always been drawn to natural remedies. I grew up drinking what we call in the Caribbean, “bush tea”- basil, thyme, lemon grass, soursop and so forth. I also used a lot of homemade remedies such as conditioners and rinses for my hair, aloes for cuts and noni leaves for my sprained knee. So, my interest in creating my own product line came naturally.
- Tell us a little about yourself.
I am best described as a down to earth Caribbean/West Indian lady with an unwavering love for nature. I was born on the island of Dominica and grew up on the island of St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. I earned my degree in Biochemistry from Syracuse University. I am passionate about peoples health which is a form of wealth in itself and plan to pursue further studies in the fields of public health and international development. I cherish quiet moments as I am a workaholic and strive everyday to maintain a balanced scheduled.
- Tell us about Nica Naturals.
Nica Naturals was officially started in 2007, but I've been making products long before that. I’ve always had sensitive skin which got worse after relocating to upstate New York for college. My experience with eczema encouraged me to build on my knowledge of herbal remedies to create products that work for me. I spent a few years being my own guinea pig, researching natural ingredients and creating products that addressed my needs. These products worked very well for me and the difference was immediately noticeable. I shared these creations with family and friends who made recommendations on how I could improve the products. Overall, the responses were positive.
Each Nica Naturals product is made from scratch using premium natural butters, herbs, oils, essential oils and fragrance oil. The scents of the products are simply amazing and range from the calming Lavender Mist, a blend of lavender and sweet orange essential oils to the spicy clove type scent of Bay Bay to the bold almond honey scent of Caress Me.
- Currently, how many products do you have in your catalog?
At present we offer approximately 24 products on a consistent basis but there are over 70 products in the Nica Naturals catalog. The newest additions to the product line are our soaps and soy candles which compliment the other products we offer.
- Why natural products?
My passion for natural products has been inspired by my personal experiences which taught me that we put on our body is just as important as what we put in our body. In creating products, I spend a lot of time learning about oils, herbs butters and other natural ingredients that offer some benefit to the body.
- I've seen your great business grow over time from the events and marketing you do in the community, what advice do you give to women looking to start a business? What should they expect and what does it take?
Being an entrepreneur is very rewarding but requires a lot of hard work, dedication and passion. Before you decide to start a business, make sure you are passionate about what you want to do. If you are not passionate, you will give up the moment things get tough and you feel like you are alone. The best way to learn is by doing. Do what you can with what you have and don’t be afraid to seek help in areas where you are weak.
- What can we expect in the future from you and Nica Naturals?
There are quite a few things planned for Nica Naturals: to expand and revamp the product line, to solidify our current image and to give back to our community as the Company grows.
- What's your daily skin care routine?
My current routine includes products I make for my personal use: aloe and honey milk cleanser, orange blossom or rose water toner, and a facial serum. I also use a facial masque or herbal steam when needed.
- Do you wear makeup? If so what are some of your favorite products.
My makeup is usually pretty conservative. I prefer eye color, lip color and occasionally some blush over the conventional full coverage. Some of my favorite products are Momosa and Mudslide mineral eye shadows by B Beauty Bar (a New Orleans makeup company), my homemade lip balm, and MAC’s Instant Gold Lipglass.
Save 10% on any order with this coupon code: 1GTGG0 (offer expires 4/30/10)
Post a Comment