Inspiring Conversations with Raenisha Watson of Ski Blu Cosmetics

Today we’d like to introduce you to Raenisha Watson.

Hi Raenisha, 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 am Co-Owner of Ski Blu Cosmetics with my 8-year-old Skylar-Marie Williams. I started Ski Blu Cosmetics in 2020 to show my daughter how to run her own successful business and also to create generational wealth. We were originally a cosmetic store but when we first launched covid had just started and none of our products were shipped. Then I found a black-owned company that helps individuals start their own beauty supply store. In March 2020, we officially switched to a “Drop shipment” beauty supply store. From March 2020 to December 2020, our store was a hit or miss. The company we were connected to took days to weeks to ship and 90% of the time they would like a replay to any of my emails. This resulted in losing customers and money due to refunds. In January 2021, I decided to break away from the company and run my own semi-functional beauty supply store from my home. In 2021 I was able to create my own website, buy products and create my store. Since then, we have been trying to expand and obtain more products from popular vendors. In July, we brought an 8.5 X 20 trailer to take our business on the road. As of today, we are still processing orders in our home and working hard to get the trailer up and running.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Building a business from the ground up is not a smooth road. Between being a single mother, working two jobs, attending school full time, and being a business owner is a struggle. The main struggle is cash flow. You can have all the ideas in the world but with no capital, you are unable to grow. During my building time, I was able to work extra shifts, drive uber, and sell things in my house to make the extra money. Since the kids were virtual, I did not have to pay for child care. In August 2021, I graduated with my master’s and was offered a job in a new state. Due to the pay increase, I jumped at the chance. After being here for three months, I release I did not have enough income to substance my business and there aren’t any opportunities for side jobs due to the city being small. Not only am I limited to earning extra money but now I have child care payments that take up some of my extra income.

We’ve been impressed with Ski Blu Cosmetics, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Ski Blu Cosmetics is a mother and daughter beauty supply store. We at Ski Blu Cosmetics aim to bring you quality name-brand products without leaving the comfort of your own home. We have the ability to deliver in Delaware and Philadelphia, ship in the United States, and pick up. While other stores are mainly in person, we do our best to cater to all clients. We specialize in bundles and carrying black-owned beauty products. I want readers to know “Yes, we are a small store but take proud in growing our selection monthly to meet the needs of our clients.” We also offer Zip pay and Shop pay. Our clients can obtain all the products necessary to obtain the perfect hairstyle without breaking their pocket.

Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I do not believe in good luck or back luck. I believe if you work hard and maintain dedicated energy, you’ll be able to move forward in life. If plan A doesn’t work then try B, C, D, E, and F. I am a firm believer of keep trying and not giving up.

Pricing:

• Blonde Brazilian Body Wave 28′ $95
• Eco Style Gel Olive Oil 16oz $3.20
• Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner $11.11

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: skiblucosmetics.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ski_blu_cosmetics/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skiblucosmetics
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/skiblucosmetics
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqFeme-oqV8H7J7R_P2BOeA

Image Credits
Raenisha Watson and Skylar-Marie Williams