I recently had the opportunity to speak with Jayne Polan, founder of Buttercream Cosmetics and the brains behind the amazing Shampowder (yes, I can say that since I personally us). I loved hearing her personally story of how she came up with the idea for Shampowder and some of the mistakes she made in her journey.
Here’s an excerpt from our interview:
Tell us a little about your journey in starting Buttercream Cosmetics, how did it come to be?
My journey began when I read (years ago) to use baby powder in your hair to absorb oil between washings. I did that, but was not satisfied with the result. I looked like I was going grey prematurely. I first formulated Shampowder in my kitchen, pitched it to a cosmetic manufacturer and had it professionally formulated and the rest is history.
Is there anyone that you modeled your business after or did you have a mentor to guide you through the process?
Unfortunately I did not have anyone to mentor me – I knew no one in the cosmetic industry and I HAD to ask those amateur questions to my manufacture and show my naiveté. I have not really modeled my business after her but have great admiration for Spanx creator, Sara Blakely. I aspire to have a fraction of her success.
What are some of the challenges of being a solopreneur?
Fortunately I have the help of my partner/husband (who has a job of his own) and has a great business head. Though I have had his help – it is still a huge challenge to start a business. There are way too many challenges to explain here. Everyday I face a challenge ranging from marketing to filling orders and distribution. ONE of the challenges I face often is making believers of skeptics. Our product really works but you have to be willing to try it.
What was your scariest or most real moment?
Scariest moment was presenting on QVC – TWICE! I was forced to leave my comfort zone. We had only launched months before our QVC debut and I was still very new at explaining its benefits. Little ‘ol Shampowder shared the ‘Beauty Beat’ hour with huge brands like Bare Escentuals, Philosophy and Mally Beauty. I was “acting” professional while having panic attacks inside.
What would you have done differently?
QVC presentations … I believe next time we have an opportunity like this I will hire a pro who is not in a relationship with the product. I was too worried about the end result to be a great presenter. That was an amazing learning experience.
How do you use social media to your advantage?
I use social media to gain exposure for Shampowder. I email our contacts about once a month with updates (that distribution list is growing daily and is about 600 people now). A friend created a Facebook page for fans/supporters. I also offer free samples to bloggers who will help spread the word by writing about Shampowder on their sites. I have used several methods of social media and I am sure there are many more to explore.
What advice do you have for other solopreneurs?
TAKE A CHANCE!!! You never know where your idea can go. It’s been two years since we launched and I believe there is still huge potential for Shampowder and future Buttercream Cosmetics products.
