One of my major 2018 blog goals is to elevate local business and provide resources to entrepreneurs. I sat down with Rose of Simply Rose & Co. at her adorable Mt. Sterling boutique to discuss how she, a 22 year old college student, launched her own business, storefront and all! Rose offers much great advice about getting started, what makes her business model and products unique, and how hard work and patience can help you create a successful venture. One of the features of her shop I loved most was that Rose offers affordable prom dresses to girls in her area through size 22 and sometimes even beyond. She is one of, if not the only, store in her city that makes prom shopping affordable and accessible for all young women. Read more below about my interview with Rose to hear her thoughts on business ownership!
Describe yourself in 10 words or less.
First-generation woman in business who empowers others.
How did you get your idea or concept for your business?
I have always loved jewelry, I remember getting my first sterling silver ring from my father when I was a little girl. When I realized my passion for jewelry and business, I started selling sterling silver engagement ring my senior year of high school. When I got to college, I founded Simply Rose and Company out of my dorm room. I launched my candle line August 2017 and my soy candles with essential oils has been a hit!
If you could have dinner with one person – living or dead, who would it be and why?
If I had dinner with one person, it would be Princess Diana. She had such poise and grace and a heart for people. I strive to become a woman like her when comes to treating people and lending a helping hand.
Tell me about your best and worst days at work since starting your business.
Feeling overwhelmed is a challenge and learning to balance work and school can also feel impossible sometimes, but when a young girl comes into my store and finds her perfect prom dress with jewelry hand-selected from my collection, it suddenly becomes all worth it. When a mother smells my lavender scented soy candle and stops to relax for one moment of her day, that is what I enjoy most enjoy about my business.
If you had a magic wand, what are the 3 things you would change in the world?
1. Women realized how valued they are.
2. College would be not as expensive.
3. Netflix was free.
What do you like to do when you’re not at work?
I love going to unique coffee shops, doing yoga, traveling the states, and baking.
How do you advertise your business?
I advertise Simply Rose & Company on Facebook, Instagram, local newspapers and word of mouth.
Who is your greatest support when facing up hardships in business?
My greatest support when facing hardships in business are my business mentors. As a student in college, I have built a network of mentors who help me with various aspects of business in terms or growth, accounting, promotional and design.
What is unique about Simply Rose & Co.?
Simply Rose and Company is unique because we focus on empowering our customers and inspiring them with products that are quality and affordable. We strive to have our products accessible to everyone. We intentionally chose sterling silver jewelry because of the longevity it brings, and soy candles with essential oils to provide a healthier way to enjoy the aroma of a candle. Our candles do not stain walls, trigger asthma and do not release smoke; a clean burn is what we strive for in our Simple Rose Candles.
If you had one piece of advice to someone just starting out as an entrepreneur, what would it be?
When I started my company, I felt like I was the only one who truly believed in me. I kept striving for my dreams, pushing for what I knew I could do, and working those long, late hours getting my company started. Do not be afraid to be achieve a dream that no one else can see just yet. The secret to having a business is passion. Without passion, there is no drive or inspiration to keep you going when you feel like you’ve reached the end of the business ropes.
What do you do on a daily basis to grow as a small business owner?
One aspect I believe a great business owner has is building relationships and keeping them going. Everyday, I try to connect with people and reach a new network that will build me for the next step in my business. Maintaining those essential relationships is key to building an empire. I thought I could do it alone in the beginning, but it really takes many people to stand by you to encourage your dream.
Where can readers shop your boutique?
Readers can find Simply Rose and Company on Facebook & Instagram. You can also go to my website here.
