Today we’d like to introduce you to Dana Tate.
Hi Dana, 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 struggled with adult acne and tried every pill and over the counter product I could buy and couldn’t figure out why my skin just couldn’t get right. Until I started to research about the types of foods and products that can cause breakouts. Next, I searched for organic products with plant-based ingredients but noticed most popular brands didn’t have the products I was looking for. In 2016, I decided to change scenario. My brand started off as an idea. While in my studio apartment, I developed a plant-based vegan skincare line that would cater to men and women of all skin types that suffered from acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, and acne cratering. I sold products from my apartment to establish business capital to invest in bottling and labeling my products. I would deliver products to neighbors, friends, and colleagues. All while juggling a full-time job as a college counselor and financial aid counselor. As my business started to get a little bit of a buzz, I started my online store in 2018. To make it easy for me to market and sell my products. I now ship domestically and internationally.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
The road has been rough! I started my business from a studio apartment. My living room /bedroom was my fulfillment room. I was my own marketing department and delivery service. I don’t have any employees so everything fell on me. I started my business as a second source of income. I’m a college counselor and financial aid counselor. When I would clock out for the day. I would clock in to start working for my own brand. Packaging orders, responding to emails and returning calls. As my business grew, I had to figure out my living situation. My apartment was too small for a “warehouse.” A week before the state went on lockdown, I moved into a bigger space and have been able to work from home. COVID19 has been a challenge due to shipping delays across the globe and I can’t longer set up booths at conventions anymore. However, I try to offer incentives and discounts to my customers to thank them and get them to shop online. Self-care is so important and that’s what my brand represents. We have spa like formulas and products to bring the spa to customers. Sherell Skincare is a healthy alternative solution.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a financial aid counselor for a University here in LA. I’ve worked in education for over ten years. I’m team education!! My undergraduate degree is in Business Administration. I always knew that one day I would start my own business. I didn’t realize that it would be so many years after I graduated from college. Most people suggested for me to quit my career but I don’t see myself quitting my full-time job. It’s not because I’m afraid. It’s because I have two jobs. One is my calling and one is my passion. I enjoy doing both! Operating a business during a global pandemic has its fair share of ups and down but I love it! My grandparents didn’t complete high school and both were successful entrepreneurs. I even named my top-selling products after them! They paved the way. I’m a first-generation college grad and entrepreneurship is in my bloodline. My drive and determination is what sets me apart. I have some of the same “high end “ ingredients in my products as your major retail brands. However, my products are sold at a more affordable price. Same quality but affordable.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Establishing a vegan skincare brand was an idea and I concept that started in a studio apartment. I had no idea how I would finance my business or who I would sell my products to but I made it happen. My goal is to continue to serve the community to establish my brand and name. I’m not a big-time name brand company but I want men and women to give small businesses like me a try. I also want to encourage anyone who has an idea or a concept to act on it! Don’t let anyone tell you it can’t be done. If you have a dream go for it!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sherellskincare.com
- Instagram: SherellSkincare
Image Credits
Images HardWork Enterprise
