INTERVIEW WITH BLACK OWNED BUSINESS IVY WILD

Hi everyone

So I thought I would do my first series on my blog page, the theme will be Interviews with Black owned businesses.

for this week I will be interviewing IVY WILD

Hello IVY WILD can you give us a quick introduction into who you are and what you do?

IVY WILD is a hair products company which caters to wavy, curly and coily hair types.

What inspired you to start your business?

IVY WILD was created to bridge the diversity gap within the hair community. There needs to be a reform within the hair industry in the UK so that Afros are seen as professional, sexy and feminine. We fully focus on helping our customers to feel empowered, allowing them to fully express who they are through innovative products and educational events

How long has your business been running for?

Since June 2018

Sherine Business owner of IVY WILD

What are your business values/principles?

Customers, Education, Innovation, Excellence.

What is your best selling product/service and why?

Chebe growth Cream – customers LOVE it. It has a natural blend of creamy butters and enriching oils, infused with natural Chebe from Chad to help retain length in natural hair.

What has been the biggest highlight in your business so far?

I am enjoying the journey thus far; I cannot pinpoint one attribute. The entire experience of being an entrepreneur is an amazing, testing, experience. There are highs and lows. But even during the lows I am learning new skills that are pivotal in creating a sustainable business. All experiences are welcomed.

How have you dealt with setbacks?

Pivoting! It is so important to manoeuvre through a changing climate, we have to be ready to adapt our businesses to suit.

How has the pandemic affected your business?

We have been able to create a more meaningful relationship with our customer base.

How do you stay focused and motivated?

Honestly, I don’t. I have days when i am more productive than others. Some days I literally do nothing, I just rest because I find that I am more productive when I am able to focus on one thing at a time. Sometimes, I am that one thing. Self love is a critical pillar in building a self-made business.

How do you give back to your community?

We host educational hair classes based around hair health and positive hair images. We teach our customers the skills and knowledge of how to create a nurturing, loving relationship with their hair.