Today we’d like to introduce you to Alisha Michelle.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
It all started on Saturday mornings in 2015 when I began taking sewing lessons from my great aunt. I really asked her to teach me to sew so I could spend time with her, the sewing lessons were an added plus. She started by showing me the basics, “this is a sewing machine”, “this is how you thread a needle”, you know the basics. As I visited her more, I learned how to use a sewing machine, a serger, and how to read patterns. At first, I wanted to learn how to sew hair wraps because I hated combing my hair, so I always threw on a hair wrap. After mastering the wrap, my aunt said, “let’s make a bonnet” and I thought to myself “why?” But of course, I learned. I began practicing sewing and patternmaking at home. I made a ton of different bonnets, from several self-made patterns. After about three lessons, I invested in my own sewing machine and serger. Once I perfected my bonnets, I slowly incorporated pillowcases, scrunchies, and satin-lined shower caps, all with self-made patterns. It was all trial and error, but I got it. I had no idea what would begin as spending time sewing with my aunt on the weekends would turn into a business that allows me to have fun and use some creativity behind a sewing machine.
Has it been a smooth road?
I started NPTressTreats in October 2016 and it has certainly not been a smooth road from finding work/home life balance to mental health to time management to COVID. I am basically a one-woman team. I handle everything for my business including website design, running social media, sewing, packaging, networking, and I operate three additional businesses along with a 9 to 5. Sometimes managing all these things can get very hectic and overwhelming so I had to learn to manage my time wisely and effectively to dedicate enough time to each area. But each day is a learning experience. I have learned to step away when necessary and to listen to my body. My business is my baby, but I can’t run a business if I don’t take care of myself.
One challenge is trying to get orders out fast enough to keep up in this world where everyone is used to Amazon prime and next day shipping. But also provide the quality I promise. Another challenge had definitely been trying to run a business during COVID. It has not been easy and I learned that the simple things we need and value can be taken from us so quickly and have an major impact on life and business. During the beginning of COVID, packages that normally took two days for delivery were taking up to six weeks and that was a struggle on both ends, for myself getting materials and for items to arrive to customers.
Although it has not been a smooth road, if I had to start over, I would not change anything. The mistakes I have made have helped me to become the business owner and person I am today, and I am grateful for those experiences. Additionally, as a leader, it’s imperative to examine and learn from past stumbles so that you’re constantly improving and growing. As uncomfortable as reminding ourselves of our mistakes is it’s completely necessary for valuable learning lessons. It’s impossible to chart where you’re going without knowing where you’ve been. The entrepreneurial process is one of growth and challenges that I have accepted and value.
Although there is nothing I would do differently, a few things I’ve learned as I have grown as a business owner is to
1) Ask for help when it is needed
2) Know that social media likes/follows equals exposure, not sells
3) Don’t compare your growth/progress to anyone but your own
4) Be your biggest cheerleader
5) Be true to yourself and your passion
5) Flow don’t force
7) Have fun
So, as you know, we’re impressed with NPTressTreats – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
NPTressTreats is short for No Preservatives Tress Treats (say ten times fast). The name comes from the idea of No Preservatives meaning “real”, as in real women have to deal with the hustle and bustle of their daily grind and don’t have time to style their hair. They/we just want to sleep cute, wake up cute, and not have to spend hours on hairstyles. The NPTressTreats motto is “sleep cute, be cute, do you, for you”. The second part Tress Treats is exactly what it means “treats for your tresses”. The name is long, but I love it. When customers send me messages saying they didn’t have to refresh/style their hair and saved so much time or when they tell me they feel beautiful in their NPTressTreats, those comments are what defines NPTressTreats.
NPTressTreats is known for satin bonnets. NPTressTreats bonnet customers are “Bonnet Baddies”. I also make satin wraps/scarves, satin scrunchies, satin pillowcases, and satin-lined shower caps, which have recently become a hit. What sets NPTressTreats apart from other satin product lines is the customer service, unique prints, size availability, customization, and the unboxing experience. There are a lot of satin products on the market, but I offer more than 50 colors/prints. Additionally, NPTressTreats are handmade to order so I can make items as small or large to fit your needs, I can mix and match colors, I can create items with your business logo, etc. The options provided by NPTressTreats are endless.
Customer service is huge for me. I take pride in the relationships I build with my customers. I have been invited to customers’ homes, parties, dinner, etc. NPTressTreats is more than a business it’s a family. I send birthday cards to my customers, I’ve (anonymously) donated to their Gofundme, I send cards and check on them when I know they are down. Addditionally, a part of my customer service is the unboxing experience. I package each item with love and my customers feel the love when opening their package. NPTressTreats is not just a brand it’s an experience.
I am most proud of my ability to take a piece of fabric and turn it into something people feel beautiful wearing. In the past, bonnets have been looked at as something unattractive to wear to bed. I love when customers send me messages to tell me their NPTressTreats bonnet is the best bonnet they have ever owned, and they feel pretty wearing it. That is what makes them a “Bonnet Baddie”.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love the diversity of Los Angeles. I love how I can get food from anywhere in the world. I love how I can get supplies for my business. I can take a trip to the garment district and get fabric if I need it in a hurry and there are so many fabric vendors. The fabric notions and potions are endless. I love how there are people from every walk of life. I think people in Los Angeles are absolutely beautiful. My biggest dislike is how far apart everything is, the lack of public transportation, and traffic.
Contact Info:
- Website: nptresstreats.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @nptresstreats
- Facebook: @nptresstreats
- Twitter: twitter.com/nptresstreats
- Other: tiktok.com/nptresstreats
- YouTube: nptresstreats
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