Small businesses are often referred to as the backbone of the US economy. During the past year, that cornerstone came under pressure like never before. As the pandemic posed unique challenges, retailers were forced to adjust and adapt in true entrepreneurial fashion. In celebration of Small Business Month, Klarna is spotlighting a selection of small businesses to share their stories of resilience and innovation.
Freshen up with Femme Detox: Shashicka Tyre-Hill is the CEO of Femme Detox, LLC. Known as “She-Source for Refreshing Your Vibe,” Femme Detox offers an all-natural and organic collection of feminine hygiene enhancers designed to stabilize your pH and balance your body.
Hi Shashicka! Tell us your story. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
It has always been my passion to find holistic ways for women to take care of their body. Being that I am highly allergic to feminine products that are on the market, I made myself the client with other women in mind. I needed an herbal solution to balance and maintain my womanhood. So I came up with the idea to create 100% all-natural ingredients that support a woman’s chemistry without all the harmful chemicals that can and will become harmful to your body.
What’s the biggest challenge facing your business as a result of the pandemic?
When the pandemic was in its early stages, Femme Detox was only a few months shy of launching. At first I thought it was going to be bad timing, but then I realized that people were at home and in front of devices that allowed them to research and learn the benefits of our products. Everyone was searching for holistic ways to stay healthy and survive. Our numbers began to sky-rocket and we had to find people that were willing to work in our warehouse for the overflow.
Name a digital tool you couldn’t do business without.
Of course, it is a great payment system. One that is easy to manage for my company and also user-friendly for my customers. Being that we are faced with so many challenges today due to the pandemic, Klarna has created systems for our clients to shop now and pay later. That is a huge benefit to our customers.
What have you recently read or listened to that has been an inspiration for your work?
God is my biggest inspiration for all my companies. I read my Bible daily, but researching new things motivates me to greatness. In everything you do, you must remember that learning and growing is a huge part of success. No matter what you are doing, you have to stay educated to be a driving force.
What do you view as the greatest benefit to being an entrepreneur?
The greatest benefit of being an entrepreneur is knowing that your products make a difference in someone’s life. There’s nothing like seeing what you created has given someone hope. I love seeing their smiling faces and reading their awesome reviews. Their joy encourages me to keep moving forward to find other things that will transform their lives.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs on building and running a successful business?
Giving up is not an option. There will be days that you may feel like giving up, but remember success never comes easy. You need to be equipped for the war and not the battle. Trials and tribulations will come your way but you have to always be passionate about what you do or else you will always be watching the clock to see if the time has passed.
Are you a small business owner? Apply for your chance to be a part of Klarna’s Small Business Impact Initiative here.