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Small Business Inspiration: Sticking To Your Principles and Running a Successful Small Business

Posted on October 24th, 2008, 11:10 am
Filed Under (Biz Start Up, Brochure) by Lisa Rodgers

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Today, I am weighing in on my small business and how it all began.  In April, 2000, I got started in natural spa products after leaving a micro-managed job to pursue something on my own but what that was, I didn’t have a clue. Natural bath and body products were an interest and I was curious as to how they were made. I started selling/making natural soaps for a company in Seattle that was in need for independent reps. Later, the owner was no longer interested in the business so I decided to create Cactus & Ivy. Now, here I am, 8 years later. I am still learning and taking it all in. Going into business for myself was the best move I ever made. Well, second to my marriage. I wouldn’t be in this business had it not been for the love and support of my husband.

The most enjoyable moments in my career have to be working for myself. I left a world full of management looking over my shoulder at every sales move I made. I did not go into business for myself to make a killing….just a living. I am still a consumer to others and I wanted to make sure I offered an exceptional product for a fair price. I absolutely, positively love getting up in the morning to see what the day will bring. Cactus & Ivy is a fun place to work and I have vowed from the beginning that no employee will ever feel the way I did when I was in the corporate world rat race.

The greatest challenges I face are competing with the companies that can afford to purchase nifty packaging at large volumes or has the added capital to run ads for an abundance of exposure. Consumers are starting to look to the “indie” part of the natural products industry. I look at how we all started out. The “indie” manufacturer has always been providing the hand made, natural product and is now being recognized. The larger companies are starting to realize that natural is the way to go so they’ve stepped up to the plate and are providing the added competition.

To remain competitive, I send out mailings that include a postage paid card that can be returned if a prospective wholesale client would like to receive free samples. For the retail end of the spectrum, I choose options that will allow Cactus & Ivy to get in front of the consumer for a reasonable cost.  Every business has to be conscious of the money they spend for brand awareness, however, small businesses are usually operating off a very limited budget and we need the most bang for our buck.  We are very talented in the ways of promoting our business and tooting our own horn.  You have to be when you are working with limited capital.

Cactus & Ivy has is presently participating in The Green Retailer and Pure Zing.  I am constantly seeking beauty sites that welcome product submissions to review. In addition to budget friendly advertising, Cactus & Ivy is also a member of several organizations that also promote our brand.  We are a member of PETA’s Caring Consumer, The Leaping Bunny Program and the Indie Beauty Network.

Cactus & Ivy has never tested its products on animals, nor will we ever.  In addition, we only purchase raw materials from companies that adhere to the same standard.  That was an easy decision from the inception of Cactus & Ivy and something we don’t take lightly and is non-negotiable.

After joining the Caring Consumer program, we decided to remove all animal byproducts from our ingredients. We have replaced beeswax with candelilla wax and we no longer use honey. Each opportunity brings change and Cactus & Ivy wants to change with it. In addition to Cactus & Ivy products being “cruelty free” we are now “vegan” too!! We are phasing out old packaging and gearing toward eco-friendly in all aspects that we can. Once we are depleted of our raw materials, we will be replacing them with Organic, where available.

Every decision I make is based on what Cactus & Ivy can sustain.  I’d love to have the eco-friendly packaging now, however, my bottom line cannot afford to go that route just yet.  I continue to scour the internet sourcing better pricing on raw materials and packaging.  I am constantly thinking of our customers, because without them, Cactus & Ivy wouldn’t exist.

So, now you know a little about me and my company, Cactus & Ivy.  For those interested in starting your own business, I say go for it!  If you are looking to start a bath and body products company, know the market you are wanting to target. Create products with a purpose and not just because it’s a fad. Bring your own flair to the products and continue to look for ways to make it better.  Make sure you become a member of social networks and use them to promote your business.  You’d be pleasantly surprised at the connections you make.  I have been on Twitter for several months and just joined LinkedIn.  Both arenas are proving to be very beneficial, not only for business contacts but I have made some really awesome friendships that I cherish!

As in any business, competition is healthy. It keeps you honest. I’ve been in sales most of my adult life and I have always looked at “no” is just a two letter word. There are plenty of “yeses” to go around. Be persistent and never give up!  Live your dream!

I want to end my post with a big thank you to Daniel with Logo Design Guru for allowing me to be a guest writer on Logo Talk.  For those of you that don’t know, Logo Design Guru designed my logo and I couldn’t be happier.  Having a good logo to represent your brand is a must!  You want people to automatically associate your logo with your products or services.  The Cactus & Ivy logo was one (1) of eight (8) logos that was awarded the prestigious American Graphic Design Award in the 2007 competition.  Wow….it doesn’t get any better than that!

Have a fabulous day!

Lisa M. Rodgers is the CEO of Cactus & Ivy a cruelty free and vegan manufacturer of natural spa, bath and body products.