Today we’d like to introduce you to Konica Cherry.
Hi Konica, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
I started what I thought would just be a “side hustle” for me right before the pandemic. Koniwani Naturals Skincare was created in my 1-bedroom apartment that later turned into my own little warehouse after getting rid of all of my furniture for production. I started making small soap cubes and lip scrubs that I sold out of zip lock bags for $5. I remember my first batch of soap. I made 25 soaps and sold out. I sold out when I made my second bath of soap, and this time, I doubled it. After my third batch of soap sold out, I knew I had a business foundation. I wasn’t knowledgeable in running a business, but the amount of support I had put me under pressure to learn, and I had to do it quickly. I created my own website and designed my own business cards. My entire business, even up until now, has been “learn as you go.” I secured my first store my first year in business. A lot of people think that becoming a larger scale business is not. I walked in the store and offered samples for free, and what I thought would be me just bringing awareness to my brand and my business ended up becoming my first disturbing store. Since starting my business in just 4 years, I have 10+ locations where you can go directly in the store and purchase my products.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Running is a business is very challenging but rewarding in the end. I believe my biggest challenge along my journey has been keeping up with the demand. My products are high demand, and I fulfill all the roles in my business that a larger-scale business would have multiple individuals doing. When you have a business that is growing as fast as mine, it’s hard to be prepared when you have to do all the work yourself.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am currently a Personal Trainer. I enjoy all things health and body. I think that not a lot of people realize how much your health impacts your daily life. If it is anything health-related, I’m known for being a resource! Especially when it comes to holistic health. I believe all things we need to live and heal is found in nature. I’m proud to be able to live a life where my health comes first but also use my passion and build multiple business foundations where I am able to promote healthier lifestyles.
How do you think about luck?
I don’t believe in luck. I am doing exactly what God has called me to do, and because of my obedience, I am able to break down walls and jump over barriers that interfere with my success and what God has set out for me to do during my time on this earth. Jeremiah 33:6 “Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security”. God asked me to heal my family, heal my friends, and heal those in my community, and that’s what I’m doing.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: instagram.com/koniwaninaturals
