What I wish I knew before Starting a Business; Selling Homemade Skincare Products

What to know before starting an online business. What to know before selling on Etsy. Selling Homemade Skincare Products. Things I wish I knew before starting a business.
TIME STAMPS;
▸ 0:49 - stress
▸ 1:48 - it's okay to say no
▸ 3:10 - set boundaries
▸ 5:26 - don't rush new items
▸ 6:19 - you can't make everyone happy
▸ 8:31 - flat rate shipping
▸ 9:40 - don't over buy inventory
▸ 10:00 - not everyone will like your product
▸ 10:11 - friends & family won't support you
▸ 12:29 - it's lonely
▸ 15:15 - productivity doesn't equal growth
▸ 16:43 - it's okay to take time off
▸ 17:30 - back up your files!
PATREON SHOUT OUTS;
▸ MusicalMoodRing - Instagram - @StardustBathandBody www.stardustbathandbody.com/
▸ Natures Farm Girl - naturesfarmgirl.com/
▸ Kennedi's Essentials - kennedisessentials.net/
Kennedi's Essentials Review - • TaraLee Reviews; Kenne...
▸ LettsBlend - lettsblendllc.com
Instagram - @ LettsBlend
LettsBlend Review - bit.ly/2ExaHFM
▸ Rhys Porter / Creativy Wyth Lovy - creativywythlovy.me/
▸ WallFlower WildFlower - www.wallflowerwildflower.com/
▸ Heartfelt Beauty - bit.ly/2JJZkNw
▸ Sugared_Pineapple - bit.ly/2MhTVje
▸ KAJ Bath and Body - etsy.me/2YVRPeI
▸ Blue Mint Soaps - bluemintsoaps.com/
▸ Cetera - bit.ly/2ZySB1j
▸ SaltAirLabel - bit.ly/2OTqALM
▸ Lanice Beauty - www.lanicebeauty.com/
▸ RDrewNaturals - www.rdrewnaturals.com/
▸ Shark City Naturals - www.sharkcitycbd.com/
sharkcitynaturals.com/
@sharkcity.naturals
▸ Ohanale - www.ohanale.com/
▸ DaniBotanicals - / danibotanicals
▸ Eclectic Beauty Cosmetics - www.eclecticbeautycosmetics.com/
▸ Escape Bath & Body - bit.ly/33lx1wP
▸ Isi Naturals - isinaturals.com/
▸ Patreon - / taraleee
OUTRO SONG
ARTIST ▸ Scotty Weber - bit.ly/2gTlD77
SONG NAME ▸ Savior - bit.ly/2DjqFna
SOCIAL MEDIA
♥ Instagram - @TaraLeeSkincare
SHOP MY ETSY
♥ etsy.me/2oJiLLJ
▸ If you have formulating questions please send them to...
▸ [e-mail]
▸ Your question may be featured on my next Q&A
Business Inquiries - [e-mail]
(This is for BUSINESS ONLY, not to message me for formulating advice. Thank you!)
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[@TessieDobey]

I own my business and I really get tired because I have to do it all myself; making products, accounting, marketing, selling, etc. I just wish I knew how overwhelming owning your own business would be.

[@TaraLeee]

oh yes it is definitely over whelming having to do it all by yourself. We have multiple job titles working on our own. I'm sorry it has been over whelming for you. I hope things get easier for you. wishing you the best!

[@dagmodelingschooltv]

Tessie Dobey same here

[@topnotchchick42]

Same

[@peacegiver1000]

Tessie Dobey I will help you.💞💞✨💞

[@2xQueenMum]

Thanks God I have my husband by my side .. sometimes you can’t just take it.

[@dawnho7744]

Totally understand what you meant by not expecting friends and relatives to support your business. Been there before.

[@meckabrignac8485]

Me too!

[@meckabrignac8485]

I just realized over time that some people don't believe in themselves so how can they believe in me??

[@RK-su4hs]

I am learning a lot about human nature reading “Human Nature “ by Robert Greene “ most will envy, and some despise when they see your rise” This is my experience. Unfortunately! 6 books onNY best seller list

[@RK-su4hs]

Mecka Brignac they could. They choose not to because they are jealous A back to front compliment

[@jessicapenaloza9321]

I’m currently a Realtor that just got licensed, and I think it hurts the most when the people closest to you choose not to support you and put their trust in people they don’t even know.

[@nancydrew5]

Here,You kinda look like Kirsten Dunst back when she was on Spiderman. And like Kirsten's character, supportive and best friend to Spiderman, you're like our best supportive friend for those of us starting out in our own business. Thanks for sharing your wisdom. 🙂

[@tatiannamcquayward1695]

Omg I'm so late to this BUT I'VE BEEN THINKING THAT FOR SOOOOOO LONG😭

[@nanmar7222]

I know she so sweet

[@sarahhumphreys3980]

I thought that too. She also.looks like Gwenyth Paltrow.

[@robsims2762]

I am a 67 year old male and have found selective videos from you exceptionally candid and helpful. You are a giver by nature! I am retired and also work full time. I am considering a line of products for men - the untapped resource. I will continue to peer into your universe as I carefully proceed with my plans. It would be nice to supplement my income from a home based business and spend more time with the true love of my life. We don't have that many years left together and I want to make the most of them! You are truly a blessing to those you touch!

[@elenaortiz8493]

I though I was the only person that likes to be alone, I’m glad not, I like to keen busy myself and learning new things

[@TaraLeee]

not at all. I love being alone! I've always been that way for some reason. lol loners unit! or not unit, cause we wanna be alone. lol

[@kendrabonds5688]

I consider myself to be part of that circle as well! Not saying I am a sociable or personable person but being myself allows me to think more clearly due to no distractions..mind you I have 4 children plus I'm a grandma I love spending time with them however that alone time I really soak up and hold on to! I guess when your like me and have kids grandkids you get so use to running here there and everywhere that when they are all on their own that's when you start to realize how precious alone time is! Great video Tara!

[@chelseyummali]

Yes I do everything on my own too! It can feel like a lot of work. I def have become more introverted as I’ve gotten older but I’m also a stay at home mommy of 3.

[@TaraLeee]

You're super mommy! 😄

[@sarasstyle8596]

I’m so glad you shared the (friends and family won’t support you) I’ve sooooooo experienced this with starting a KZbin channel and everyone on KZbin makes it look like their families are their biggest supporters and idk I just don’t entirely have very much of that so I’m relieved to know that people starting their businesses and chasing after their passions understand and experience the same thing cause I was beginning to feel like the only one

[@tadpolerina]

I love the fact you mentioned mental health. Its honestly been a huge struggle to my life as well as many people's out there I'm sure. Thank you for your down to earth and genuine thoughts on this topic, I hope you're doing well, as well as any other small business owners out there because I totally agree - take care of your mental health since it's basically what keeps our drive to move forward.

[@earthbodyoasisbeautyspa5677]

She’s very genuine. I like her.

[@TheNoncommittalChef]

Appreciate your honesty and all of the great tips! The lonely part also hit home. I empathize and respect your hustle and the great head you have on your shoulders.

[@saramiller4448]

I am just starting an online business with my best friend. it's def overwhelming and exciting at the same time. this video really helped me..Thank you!

[@sanairaei2918]

I love the way you explain things! So clear and intriguing at the same time. Thank you the few videos I have watched of yours have been very helpful!

[@iamMariahJanae]

Hey Tara Lee! I'm using your wholesale for my business and I'm so excited! I been watching all your videos for months. Thanking God that I came across you on youtube.

[@berenice_naranjo]

Girl I feel you! We can't make everyone happy

[@andreahostler3129]

Thank you so much for sharing. It truly motivated me no one that I have seen on tube as done a video like this, you made me feel like I was listening to a good mentor being very genuine thank you again.

[@whipgold4569]

Thankyou. Lot of great thoughts and advice in this video. Total respect for everyone who is running their own small business, well done.

[@ieshamitchell9083]

Girl, this video is so relevant to my life today. Thanks so much!

[@WarriorPrincess611]

Yes dear, it is lonely at the top! But it is in your heart, so you must follow your heart...always!

[@ms.minnie3953]

Thank you for this...everything u talked about in this I can relate. It's like ur inside of my head...wow...this helps so much and thanks for ur transparency & honesty.

[@ediths.q.3097]

I really appreciate your time to make this video. Thank you for all your contributions and suggestions. You are an inspiration!. Many more successes with your beautiful business :)

[@WalkTheAncientPaths]

For a young lady you are so wise beyond your years. You are very encouraging and inspiring. I’m very proud of you. Even though I don’t know you personally 😊🤩😃

[@PTCL59]

You r so young and wise. I m almost 50 n I started my handmade skincare business by accident 5 years ago. What u share is so true . Tq

[@justmiavida3460]

🤗 to you, thank you for this. The problem that I was having was wanting to make… every… single… thing (idea), the don’t rush advice us right on time. Thank you 🙏🏽

[@ronnellra14]

Love this video! I’m a licensed esthetician planning on starting my skincare line soon. This video is super duper helpful! I definitely took some notes!

[@HiwotThePharmacist]

I can relate @15:55! Your honesty is refreshing💚

[@margaretharden3256]

I just happen to stumble on this video and you... I needed this video!!! Every word I needed to hear!!! Thank you!!!

[@lilacbloomsvintage8264]

I plan to start my business, I think I'm lucky bc everyone is supporting me.

[@faridahnakayemba1496]

Me my brother and mother are my support ever

[@iLoveTurtlesHaha]

The advice still stands. Don't rely on that support for the entirety of your business's life. You need to find your customer base because once the initial support is over, you'll need a reoccurring source of buyers.

[@melanie1050]

Thank you for sharing...I understand friends and family, they think because you make it, it should be free or they want the recipe...ahhh NO...OMG I have coffee in the morning look up after a few loaves of soap and say wow is it 2:30 already then I eat a bowl of cereal take an hour nap then back at it...I feel guilty if I don't get everything done but I get it, I'll try harder to relax.

[@TaraLeee]

I totally know what you mean. I feel so guilty when I'm not working. I hope you are able to take more time to relax. It is definitely needed.

[@melanie1050]

@@TaraLeee Thank you...Stay Well

[@AshA-bt5fg]

Agreed

[@kocem3384]

You are lovely and humble. Thank you for sharing, very informative.

[@Ilovemusickc]

Excellent advice! Thanks for taking time to share this useful information!

[@celesteelijah2515]

Thank you for being so candid good info.🥰

[@michellehutchings3140]

I just started my skincare business and really I am just in P&D stage or perfecting recipes and testing on humans haha my friends and family want to help try my creations. I feel so lucky that my boyfriend wants to help me and it will just be figuring out where he may be able to help but mostly I will be doing it all myself I believe too. This is the second business I have started this year so I do like to have a good go. First one is consultancy for my town planning business which I am aiming for it to be a long-term business that other professionals will end u running and bringing me in the coin and making skincare and soap makes me happy so that will be what I mostly do.

[@TheRealCalisfynest]

This has a lot of truths in it. ive been working on building my subscriber list up until the official launch and its all strangers. none of my direct circle signed up, but its okay. my plan is to expand and push to an entire new base. I could see the lonely part. im hoping to keep my packaging/formulation days to weekends, and weekdays pushing small orders.

[@TheRealCalisfynest]

what did confuse me at first was registering mine. virtual addresses and when/how to use them, vs. the business mailing address for customers etc.

[@patticakesbakersman9856]

Hi Tara! I just found your channel and can't wait to start binge watching allllll of your vids throughout the next few days. Happy Friday and Thank you! :)

[@TaraLeee]

Yay! Welcome to the channel 😄 I hope you enjoy binge watching my videos. Happy Friday to you as well

[@azizichaisson3589]

This message is on point. Thank you so much!

[@TaraLeee]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@deborahrobinson9718]

Thanks for this vid! I just started my skin and hair care brand and I’ll definitely take these points into consideration

[@TaraLeee]

Good luck with your business!!!

[@somethingaboutnay6019]

great video tara!

[@zarkhanay]

I'm your new fan, sooooo honest . People like u are rare... More power to u ❤ from Pakistan 🇵🇰

[@KateLloyd128]

I definitely understand the lonely thing. I'm an introvert by nature, but it still gets rough sometimes working alone all day.

[@hadeelahmad8624]

You and your channel the best on youtube thank you a lot for learning us many useful things❤

[@TaraLeee]

Awwwh thank you so much! That is so sweet of you 😊

[@bonnie_jade]

Thankyou so much I really appreciate you, your amazing this exactly what I needed to hear 💜

[@empressaura7736]

I couldn't have said this any better..... I feel the same about it all. Great video 👌🏾

[@TaraLeee]

awwh thank you! :)

[@beautifulmonster72]

Your videos are so helpful, thank you so much!

[@Mah_fb]

Great tips!!

[@jessicadygos8582]

Thank you for all the great info. I've been doing my business off and on for years and got so unmotivated trying to figure everything out. Your videos have been amazing and reinspired me to get busy

[@yudeeudochukwu4193]

This is a really great video! Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom

[@ke-eo7hd]

I stumbled on your videos by chance. Thank goodness!!! You have been such a help! During this whole shutdown, I have a lot of time on my hands and catching up! Thank you so much for your time doing these! BIG HELP!!!!

[@TaraLeee]

I'm so glad my videos are helping you out and keeping you entertained and busy through this shut down. I debated on if it was okay for me to continue my regular content while such a tragedy was going on. I'm glad I decided to continue with my regular content. I know a lot of people are out of school and work and are cooped up in their houses bored. So I'm hoping to try and push more content to keep those who have nothing else to do entertained and busy. Hope you continue to enjoy my content :) best wishes!

[@ke-eo7hd]

Yes, keep them coming. You have the most genuine spirit. I wish you all the success in the world. Keep shining that light of yours :)

[@catesonia788]

I totally understand. Thank you. I am more wiser, just by watching this video.

[@3layerzdeep]

missed your videos. you always come out with great content

[@TaraLeee]

thank you so much! That means a lot :)

[@Afgmakersmarket]

thank you so much for sharing so much of what youve said has hit home for me i own a candle bussiness and its so stressful at times so thanks for being so amazing and sharing xoxo

[@sabrinasmith8977]

Bless u Tara 🖤

[@meckabrignac8485]

If only I knew then what I know now! I totally understand! I still have people asking me for my products!

[@chelseyummali]

I sell clothing currently but am moving into self care products. I’ve always shipped internationally. I’ve been doing it for 3 years. I’ve only had a few issues. One girl had her package stuck in customs, another girls package did get lost. I felt so bad for her :( But for the most part all has been good and I ship to Turkey, Egypt, Australia, Japan etc. the key to international shopping is using Priority shipping or something like DHL which is so expensive so take that into consideration.

[@TaraLeee]

I can definitely see shipping clothing internationally being much easier. This issue with skincare products is you have to have proper declarations of all the ingredients. Some ingredients like retinol aren't allowed in some countries over a specific percentage. Some ingredients aren't allowed at all in specific countries, etc. I'm glad you have had such a good experience shipping internationally. I hope I can do the same one day. :)

[@chelseyummali]

TaraLee ahh I never thought about ingredients...that’s crazy. I do think of course following laws are super important but most large label brands don’t follow those very strict laws and just put the package contents. It can be more challenging as a small business trying to follow all the guidelines.

[@kangkanabora5366]

love your videos so much coz your honest with us

[@victorias7680]

This was a great video! Thank You!

[@somethingaboutnay6019]

hey tara! could you do a video specifically on wholesaling as its slightly confusing and id love to know more about how it works. thanks tara!

[@Blaq_butterfly]

Thanks so much for your videos...just about to launch my own skincare and they are always helpful

[@ceciliamcneal7954]

Thank you beautiful! As always a awesome video. I took lots of notes.

[@ii_amjae8471]

This video deserves so much more likes ! 🤍 Very good content . I really enjoy your videos . I’m planning to create some homemade products soon . Did you take any courses in skincare first ? Do customers ask if you’re certified to be selling products ? It’s kinda a concern of mine ; that persons may not buy because they are skeptical

[@Tdaniels24]

😍Great video! Thanks for sharing. Love your videos

[@heathenTovea]

thx for sharing . I have owned a business before but nothing like this. My last business was a start up and start working fast . This you have to wait for the good stuff to start rolling in so for me its the wait. I hate it. Other than that i am self motivated and only depend on myself its less stressful that way.

[@lildarlin1954]

I had an accessories business and wished I could've found a way to outsource the manufacturing part so that I could concentrate on marketing my business. I would say to look into ways to have someone else do something that is either too time consuming (for me it was sewing all of my products) or that you aren't good at (if tech isn't your thing, it wasn't mine, either).

[@user-mi3go7ct4o]

I like you and what you are doing. Good job!

[@AshA-bt5fg]

I feel you 💕

[@maameaba6695]

This video was very very helpful to me..Thank you very much

[@its2in0the1numbers1]

Awesome tips. Thanks.

[@TaraLeee]

Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed 😊

[@saimamultani3288]

I watch your videos soo much ...I hve started to feel like you're my best friend ...n I just listen to you whole day 😂❤️❤️❤️

[@TaraLeee]

awwwh you are so sweet! I am glad you enjoy my content. Thank you :)

[@marineljavier6956]

Thanks so much for sharing

[@77danamae]

You remind me so much of Kirsten Dunst. Love your videos too!

[@Talhasarwar1]

Please make a video about hydrating gel moisturiser specifically for oily skin 🥺🙏🏻and your videos are amazing with having good knowledge about skin❤️

[@TaraLeee]

oooh sounds like a lovely idea. I'll put it on the list. I have a lot on my list, so it may be a while till I get to it. :)

[@leondracharleau4137]

very inspiring

[@ansix7094]

could you do a video on how to handle your business while still doing school?

[@r.z.j.8261]

Love 💘 your videos.. I need more on repair skin salves

[@MikaylahJordan]

I understand that lonely thing.

[@beautyandhealthtips3074]

God bless you dearly

[@samanthaspero3466]

The LABLES!!!!!!! that was my stressful thing.

[@aliciat6719]

I'm working on starting my own skincare business/side hustle and this video helped SO much!! :)

[@alayhiatylece]

i love your videos

[@Stephanie_Sharer]

I wish I knew exactly what I wanted the name of my business to be. Changing my mind more than once means I have had to rebut domains and register business names which the cost of adds up quite a bit.

[@elliecares2938]

Do you have to get your items stability tested before selling on Etsy?

[@glynisvelez3657]

Hi Tara, I’m looking to start my own business also. I love watching and learning from your videos. This info you are sharing now is helpful. No lie I’m a little scared. Not sure where to start etc , I have my IG page but haven’t started Etsy yet. I do have a starters question regarding product I’ve learned from you in some things but how do you know how to begin formulating like if I did t have you I’d be lost …

[@MsXknight]

I'm going through shipping and handling problems right now. I sell skincare items and my items get heavy so shipping costs. So I'm trying to decide if I should add my shipping prices in with my items or just let ppl pay what it cost for shipping separately

[@Danniessa]

How did you get used to doing the finances and accounting stuff if this isn't your lane? I enjoy the formulating process but I really wanna get good in this area lol.

[@sandi876]

Excellent video, I love all ur business advise vids. Thanks for making them ☺️... Question, would you do private label products for in the US if the labels/packaging are sent to you?

[@TaraLeee]

I'm glad you enjoy them cause I love making them too :) I do offer private labeling. How I do mine is I can sell you my products in wholesale without the labels so you can use your own labels and brand them yourself. But I don't offer the option of you sending me your own packaging and me packing it in that instead.

[@sandi876]

@@TaraLeee thanks a lot, I'll definitely contact you when I'm ready. Love your videos, keep up the great work ☺️

[@kerenjoseph9122]

How did you do your marketing for your products.

[@Plufpluff]

Hi Tara, may i ask if you do homemade skin care, what is the requirement to sell it? I mean any legal document or license to be acquired?

[@aaangiii]

I have been watching you for awhile and I’m launching my own cosmetic business this May and I agree that it is very stressful! I don’t know if I should start out on Etsy or use Shopify though 🤨

[@TaraLeee]

That's great! good luck with your business. I recommend starting on Etsy. I think you will get more customers right away compared to using Shopify. A lot of people go to Etsy specifically looking for handmade items and you are more likely to be found, compared to having your own site. Then once you build up a client base move to shopify. Keep both your Shopify and Etsy for a while. Then eventually you can shut down your Etsy, or continue it if you would like. Also starting on Etsy is a lot less stressful compared to making a shopify.

[@aaangiii]

TaraLee thank you so much 🥰💕

[@dejavbvlogs1443]

@@aaangiii Hi! I have my own shopify store and when i first started i thought starting with my own website would make it so that i get all the sales and people arent distracted from other peoples items BUT now that ive had that store for awhile i agree with Tara, you cant really be found unless people are specifically looking for your site, it would have been so much easier to get customers through etsy FIRST then once you get a large customer base maybe moving to shopify after. so i forsure agree start an etsy first! Hope that helped also!

[@teresawilson3823]

@@TaraLeee Thank you so much for this information! I'm getting ready to start my Cosmetics business. Etsy it is, then move to my own website once clientele builds up. Great idea! ❤❤❤💯🙌🏽🙋🏽‍♀️👍🏽👏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@devinharwood6010]

So, I am a massage therapist and I want to start my own skincare/body care business this year. However, one question that keeps circling my brain is the legality of it. I’m not a skincare expert or an esti and I’ve been wondering, are there any contingencies that come along with that? Obviously it’s someone’s choice to buy products from you but if it’s something I decided to get into and am not an expert in the field, is there anything that comes along with that? Or any additional credentials needed for the products you sell that people will be putting on their face and body? I’m starting with salves, body oils and facial massage oils but, down the line, I’d like to create facial cleansers, serums, moisturizers, etc. Is there any additional credentials I need to do that? Part of it just seems strange to me not being an expert, but being familiar. Thanks!

[@elenagavrila5446]

How to calculate your ratios when make a product for skin care ? Is there any formula 🤔

[@kerstineskeliyoga]

;) Thank YOU

[@Vasuki666]

Love u dear I am from India , Kerala

[@misspriss2018]

I’m starting my own cosmetics business (organic skin care, hair care, soy candles, etc) it is named Esjay Naturals on Instagram and Twitter. I really appreciate your content it is very helpful, thank you! Hopefully one day I’ll do KZbin explaining my journey!

[@TaraLeee]

best of luck with your business! :)

[@misspriss2018]

TaraLee Thank you so much!! 🥰

[@Palakjoshii]

Hii... I am palak from India....just wanna say that you are amazing and I love you sooo much

[@aizaarroyo7959]

Hello ms.Tara i'm from Philippines 😊 you're one of my inspiration to have a skincare business someday. I want to start to have a serum or mist but i dont know where to start. And what ingredients. And measurement exactly to use 😢i hope you can help me thanks a lot😘 love your vids by the way 😍

[@TaraLeee]

Im so glad my videos inspire you! That makes me happy!! I have lots of serum recipes here on my channel. So I’d check those out. I also have a couple facial mist videos as well. Hope they help :)

[@aizaarroyo7959]

@@TaraLeee thanks a lot. Ihope I can formulate a perfect one soon 🙏😘

[@kesemawalker2019]

Is online business the same as a homemade business ?

[@jaydenmcallister3929]

Did u have to get a llc r business license

[@09SaRuh]

You look so cute!

[@TaraLeee]

awwh thank you! you are so sweet 😄

[@stephhll]

Thank you for sharing your input

[@danielleruckiee]

im in the same boat, but not working as much this quarter. you can do it and good luck to you!

[@nataliebierman3067]

How is you’re business going?

[@AA-hp2sx]

Hey, this might sound a bit intrusive, but I was wondering how many sales you make per week?

[@RK-su4hs]

A A correct. Intrusive More than a bit

[@mrJearmy1]

you can have a criteria of 30 people before you chose to decide if a product is good or not.