We’re looking forward to introducing you to Marquita Gill. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Marquita, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
I think many people truly misunderstand the time it takes to make products. It’s just me here in the U.S.A., and my sister in Barbados, so to make organic and beneficial skin/body/hair care is no 5 minute routine!
Although we launched in August 2020 (happy 5 year anniversary to us!), Takara (my older sister) and I spent many “soap Sundays” trying to figure out what Empress Naturals should make/explore. Five years later, I’m still spending whatever extra time I have infusing oils, trying out new soaps (which take a month to cure!), and testing out scrubs. It may look easy, but trust- this is hard work- hard work filled with love!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Empress Naturals is a Black, West Indian & female-owned company, providing affordable access to natural skin care with key ingredients from Caribbean culture. We are focused on building community through ancestral stories and networking. There are four main pillars which drive Empress Naturals: 1. Access 2. Representation 3. Natural/Holistic Care 4. Community.
My name is Marquita Gill, and I am the Creative Lead at Empress Naturals. Empress Naturals was birthed from grief; our grandmother Elma passed away July 2019, and we wanted to find a meaningful way to honor her. While she didn’t teach us how to make soap, she did instill a firm knowledge of Caribbean herbs and spices which we use in all of our products.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
My parents have definitely taught me the most about work. I grew up watching them run a successful bar and restaurant. I also noticed their sacrifice in closing it down to be more present with me and my sisters. I have no idea how they managed to put us through school and taking us on yearly trips to America on one salary, but that goes to show their determination and sacrifice. While my father demonstrated the importance of punctuality and care in your work, my mother taught me that the work that’s needed at home. Her organizational/multitasking, time management and sacrifices created a home that, through our young eyes, never lacked a thing.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Running a business is HARD. I think about quitting all of the time, to be honest. I am a full-time teacher, and sometimes I don’t have the energy to create a post or TikTok after classes. However, the connection this work has created with my loyal customers reminds me of the joy my grandmother had when she helped others. I strive to be like her, so I have to keep going!
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
I think the public version of me is *part* of the real me. Everything I present to the public is true, but certain layers of my personality are only accessed by close friends and family.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope my students will remember how much I cared for them and helped them feel seen and loved. I hope everyone will speak about how hilarious I was and how important joy and enjoyment were to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://empressnaturals.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empressnaturalsllc?igsh=MXRrOXZmMG52eDZqYw==
Image Credits
Marquita Gill
