Today we’d like to introduce you to Melanie Foster.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Melanie. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Growing up, my dad had his own business and always preached to me and my siblings about how he values being his own boss. When he would have these long speeches, I would tune out because I never really thought I would be a good business owner because of the stresses that come along with it and with my quiet personality I didn’t think I had what it took to be one. But it was always instilled within me and I had the tools I just had to believe in myself to make it happen.
I started becoming obsessed with watching YouTube videos back in 2010 when I went natural so I could learn how to do my own hair. I made my first product for my hair with Shea butter and Coconut oil. This natural simple formula kept my hair moisturized but I never thought further into it. For me, I was only trying to create products that would work with my hair. When I went to college, I started creating a variety of self-care items for myself like DIY face masks, deep conditioners, hair oils and etc. But it was always just for myself I never really put any thought into making products to sell.
I received my Bachelors of Science Degree in Biomedical Engineering last year from the University of Texas at San Antonio. So, combining my background of strong math and science skills along with my creative niche to always try different DIY’s, I created my business, Brelove Naturals, making all natural skin care products. It started off by me just making little things around the house for me and my mom to use and then I made Christmas gifts for my family members — from there Brelove just flourished. It was a hobby that I loved doing that turned into a business for me. With the certain stresses that arise in my Engineering job, my business brings me joy and a sense of calmness, especially when I get such great feedback from my supporters. I appreciate all of those who have and will support me, together we will reach our dreams.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Smooth Road? Of course not! With anything in life there will be some hurdles you have to get over to get to where you want to be. My business is new for me and it’s something I’ve never done before so learning about everything has been a struggle for me. I had to learn how to design and print my own labels for my products, which is still a task because some things do not print out perfectly and I end up throwing them away. I had to learn how to operate Shopify for my eCommerce website and design my own website, which was new for me. But with the help of YouTube videos I was able to figure it all out. Of course, I have improvements in my head that I want to implement, but I also struggle with time management with my engineering job as it can get stressful at times.
At times it can become overwhelming with formulating the products, making them, creating the labels, packaging up the orders and everything, but I have a great support system that steps in when I need help and it makes it easier when you love what you do.
Brelove Naturals – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I launched my business in February of this year and I sell handmade, all naturals whipped body butters, bath salts, bath & body oils and beard oil. I plan to expand and make more products, but I am staying small for now and adding more as I grow. I have gotten good feedback on all of my products but the top product would have to be my whipped body butters. Customers are in love with the Rose Blend, Relaxing Lavender Blend, and Orange Peel Blend. I am also very proud of the creation of these blends as well. I know I have long ways to go before reaching my ultimate goals, but I have gotten really good responses from communities in Texas and out of Texas within the three months that I have been fully operating Brelove.
Our products are handmade with love to nourish, moisturize, medicate, and soften the skin. Our products will provide a spa like experience from the comfort of your own home.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is reaching my own personal goals. At the beginning of anything, I write out my goals to complete for the month. Therefore, when I accomplish a goal and when I’m able to check it off my list, I consider this success. I truly feel and know that I am moving in the right direction and constantly growing and evolving.
Pricing:
- Whipped Body Butter $12
- Bath Salts $8-$10
- Bath & Body Oils $8
- Beard Oil $12
Contact Info:
- Website: www.brelovenaturals.com
- Phone: 832-818-4665
- Email: info@brelovenaturals.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brelovenaturals/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brelove-Naturals-102088984687143/
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