Today we’d like to introduce you to Joelanda (Jo).
Hi Joelanda (Jo), thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Hi! I’m Jo, the owner of “Jo & Nora’s Soap Co” and I named the company after both myself and my 12 year old daughter. I wanted to create something that was wholesome and authentic like we are, like our products are.
My journey was inspired by my ability to freely and creatively express myself through my own interpretation of the art of healing; which is why I began making skincare products and candles. My intention was to create natural products that reminded me of my Big Mama, homemade with ingredients our elders introduced us to. Things like: aloe vera, honey, oatmeal, shea butter, coconut oil, turmeric, etc. My goal has always been to place the naturalness back into skincare, products that we use everyday, especially for melanin skin.
I struggled with acne and hyperpigmentation in my younger years and it seeped into my adult life. Seems like every product made things worse rather than better. I began making bar soaps in my home kitchen for myself and my family—in 2019, it grew into something I never imagined. We explored and expanded “Jo & Nora’s Soap Co” from creating bar soaps, to now becoming a one stop shop for all natural body care essentials. With products like body wash, bath tea, body butter, creams, serum, exfoliating scrubs, candles and so much more! I am truly grateful.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road, every journey will come with its own challenges. As an entrepreneur, there have been times where I didn’t receive any orders for weeks and even months. It was a shocker when I first started my small business because I became so accustomed to a biweekly salary. I had to make a decision to resign from the law firm I was previously employed in order to pursue Jo & Nora’s full time. I knew it required all of my energy for it to truly succeed. At one point it became difficult to pay bills and other expenses. I am here, thriving and continuing, because of god’s grace, my sweet daughter, and supportive family and friends who encourages and motivates me everyday.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Jo & Nora’s Soap Co.?
Jo & Nora’s sale an array of different products. We started out making natural vegan bar soaps then expanded into creating more sustainable body care products.
What sets us apart from others is our ability to create natural products that provide benefits that aid in maintaining healthy skin. Their healing properties improve skin conditions such as eczema, hyperpigmentation and acne while working as an emollient remedy for hydration and retaining moisture. Our unique bust/sculptured candles also set us apart from others based upon their subliminal representations of melanin people and messages that resonate.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I’m currently seeking/searching for resources that can be of use in growing and improving my business, and am open to any suggestions or recommendations.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://joandnorasoapcompany.wixsite.com/skincare
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joandnora?igsh=cm85YXQ0NXFoNzBz
