2024 Aubri here! I dug up this blog post from my first year in business, and it made me smile. The struggles were real (and honestly, there are now different struggles), but Rebrand has grown beautifully and in unexpected ways since then. I thought I'd share for transparency's sake - in case there are any fellow beauty entrepreneurs out there!
It was a big year for me between developing and launching 3 skincare products, learning how to start and run a business, and earning my Masters degree (oh and casually getting married) during a pandemic. This is what starting a skincare business looked like in 2020 - with less than $3,000.
January
I sent out samples of the formulas to friends and family, with a survey for feedback! I also started designing my packaging. Basically, I requested samples (usually free) from glass suppliers, and then made designs (in Word), cut them out and taped them on. Super primitive but got the job done at no cost!
February
After getting feedback from friends and family, I finalized my three formulas and sent them for required testing! The most important test is one that shows the product is preserved properly. Check!
March
My Masters program went online in March, and one of my favorite classes was Growth Marketing. We learned a lot about digital marketing, including a simulation of social media marketing!
April
After some hesitations about launching during a pandemic, I decided to go for it. I realized there would never be a ‘good’ time to start something from scratch. Might as well do it ASAP! With that attitude, I purchased the packaging and ingredients I would need to make my first big batch. With my own very meager savings haha.
May
In May, I drove from Oakland to SoCal to celebrate my graduation with family. I also enlisted my hometown besties to model for a photoshoot!
June
I filed my business paperwork with the state and city! In light of George Floyd’s murder, I reflected on my mission and the need for a more intersectional approach to sustainability. I’m committed to that and am always open to suggestions on how to make my company more accessible and socially conscious.
July
I batched all of my 3 formulas, filled packaging, and labelled everything! After putting the finishing touches on the website, I launched to family and friends.
August
August 3rd was the day I launched my products to the world! The support from new friends was incredible.
September
I continued to send out orders and figure out the whole marketing thing. I’ll be honest - there was a definite lull in sales and I think this is to be expected the month after you launch! Don’t be discouraged, it just means your fans were quick to purchase off the bat :)
October
I really got into a stride with social media and hit 2K followers on Instagram! I also reached out to Plantish Future, a zero waste brand I found on Etsy, to provide the reusable cotton pads and mesh bag for the Refillable Trio (now discontinued). I launched the Trio as an easy gift set for the holidays!
November
Had my first ever sale - for newsletter subscribers only! It lasted all of November in hopes of reducing Black Friday impulse buying. Hint hint, make sure you're signed up for the newsletter (signup on home page).
December
I closed out the year with over 150 orders in 2020! I definitely dropped off the face of the earth at the end there to spend some much needed time outdoors and with family and friends.
So there you have it! If you’ve stuck with me this far (on this blog post or on my business journey) - thank you! Excited to share more upcoming plans with you.