Akilla Morris shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Akilla, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
Sweetooth Boutique is more than just a company with products that smell good. Each item is carefully crafted to benefit you on the inside just as much as on the outside. Pure essential oils are used with natural butters and herbs to provide a healing experience for your mind, body, and spirit. The benefits of each item are included on the label as well as on our website.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Akilla Morris, and I am the owner of Sweetoooth Boutique LLC. I specialize in natural and vegan skincare and aromatherapy products. I offer a variety of scents from floral to woodsy, and each product carries its own unique healing benefit, whether for your skin or your mind. I use essential oils, which are nature’s medicine, so that my products not only smell amazing, but carry their own benefits! They are perfect for anybody, and the gift sets that I’m working on for the holidays will allow you to truly treat yourself!
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
I love this question because my answer is the relationship with myself! After experiencing so much throughout life and creating this brand, I’ve been able to learn so much about myself. I’ve had to go through so many stages personally and professionally to learn about what I truly wanted and was willing to tolerate. To be able to see the bigger picture and reach a realization that we actually only get this one chance at life. Why not try and do something memorable or unique? Most people follow a certain path because others say it is the only path in this life. As Jay Z says, “I drove by the fork in the road and went straight”. I chose to bet on myself and my creativity instead of succumbing to the wants of society. As a result, people can enjoy something that I created.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I think as entrepreneurs, we go through a lot emotionally, mentally, and even physically. Because of the sacrifice that you make once you decide to go through it, that can definitely take a toll on your psyche. In a small business, you can have a period of time with little to no sales and vice versa. Those times can make you feel like a failure and get imposter syndrome. Like, who do I think I am? What gives me the right to start a business when there are so many big corporations out there already doing what I’m doing?? It takes strength and perseverance to snap yourself out of that and continue the mission. There are always times when you want to give up and just work a regular 9-5, but then you have to remember to keep going.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
In my opinion, the biggest lie in the skin care industry is that the higher the price tag, the better quality of the product. Many companies use their brand name to sell products or have celebrities endorse them. By doing this, many people are influenced to make a purchase. Sweetooth Boutique may be a small business, but its products can go head-to-head with ANY big-name product on the current market. That is how much I know and believe in what I’ve created.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What will you regret not doing?
Currently, my regret is not starting my company sooner. I was so focused on a different type of life and worked hard for others for so long. The dedication and time that was put into someone else’s dream is something that I can never get back. What I can do now is utilize my time here, take more chances, and not be afraid of failure. Many people have had to fail multiple times to reach that win. My journey started when I allowed myself the openness to receive the message from the universe that there was more I had to offer to the world!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sweetoothboutique.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetoothboutique
- Other: TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@sweetoothboutique
