(1)    LAEDA: Entrepreneurship is a very challenging path to take with many different possible directions. What made you decide to become an entrepreneur?

I feel I've always had the spirit of an entrepreneur. I’ve chosen many sales based jobs; but, it wasn't until I was working for a mortgage company in a role designed to "be your own boss" that it finally clicked for me that I wanted to build my very own business. After some soul searching, I began researching the process of making natural skin care products such as natural soap bars and instantly fell in love. From that moment, I knew I wanted to start my own business. 

(2)    LAEDA: Why did you choose your industry?

I would say my natural passion for the human body, more specifically the skin, is the main reason I chose my industry. Growing up I've always loved science and as I grew, I became even more interested in the body and how it works and how to keep it well maintained. Once I began experiencing adult acne, I became even more interested in finding skin care solutions that would help not only me, but also those with issues similar to mine. 

(3)    LAEDA: Tell me about your experience while attending EDTP. What have the major takeaways been from the program? Have you had any “Ah-ha!” moments? How did the program help you?

My experience while attending the EDTP was informative and insightful to say the least. I've learned so much through the course of my training and was introduced to many beneficial resources such as an accountant, lawyer, tax preparer and so many more individuals that I would not have had the opportunity of meeting outside of EDTP. My major takeaway from the program was learning the necessary pieces to build a strong foundation for my business. For me, coming from a background where everything that I was learning at the time was very new, the program really did a great job of framing how your business structure should be from start to finish. EDTP helped me in shifting my paradigm from employee to business owner. The program gave me the tools I needed to begin structuring my business, from organizing my business plan to planning for my future, regarding where I want my business to be and what steps I need to take to get there. 

(4)    LAEDA: Tell me about your journey on the road to business start-up. What have been some of the challenges, successes, failures, etc.?

 My journey to business start-up has been somewhat of a rollercoaster ride. My biggest challenges right now are funding, brand awareness, social media presence, and consistency in sales. I am collaborating with a small marketing firm to help boost all of the above. I have been having better success in engaging with my current audience and constantly driving foot traffic to my website. At this point, I am focusing on how to convert the foot traffic that I have been receiving to actual sales, which is a current failure that I am working to turn around. 

(5)    LAEDA: Could you tell me a little about where your business is today?

Today Prolific Beauty is steadily growing and working on increasing brand awareness. I am gearing up for any possible holiday vending opportunities to increase both sales and brand awareness. I am also preparing to release a new product, Foaming Hand Soap, as well as open my book of business to offer facial services. within the next 3 weeks. Prolific Beauty is slowly but surely growing and working on implementing more avenues for customer engagement such as monthly newsletters and an increased social media presence. I am also preparing Prolific Beauty for a relaunch in Summer 2021.  

(6)    LAEDA: Do you have any advice for future (or existing) entrepreneurs?

The advice that I have for future and existing entrepreneurs is the same advice that I would give to myself… Never give up. Know that there is an answer to your current question or challenge that you are working to overcome. Always remain a student and learn from the next entrepreneur who may be where you want to be. Always remain open to constructive feedback, never be afraid to ask for help, and always remember why you started!    

Congratulations to Unique Lewis for completing EDTP and recommitting to her journey on the path of entrepreneurship. Prolific Beauty cater to those who may have been overlooked by mainstream skincare companies. Those who are melanated, have skin sensitivities, and actually give a damn about the ingredients used in the products that we put on our bodies on a daily basis. Prolific Beauty is made for everyone and all skin types. The all natural, plant based products will help to make your skin healthy, nourished, and softer than ever before! To get in touch with Unique, you can email her at prolificbeautyllc@gmail.com and/ or give her a call at 1-866-263-1023. Also, consider visiting the website https://www.prolificbeautyllc.com/.

The Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (EDTP) is a free, nine-week business skills training course offered in Camden, NJ in the Spring and Fall each year. Qualified entrepreneurs receive 72+ hours of training from industry professionals, business planning, and one year of technical assistance. Apply online at www.LAEDA.com.