Today we’d like to introduce you to Delia Simpson.
Hi Delia, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory
I worked as a Corporate Event Planner for 16 years and when COVID hit, I was out of a job. Honestly, there was part of me that needed the break, I didn’t realize how physically and emotionally exhausted I was. In the immediate weeks after being laid off, I rested, cooked some great meals, binge-watched Netflix, and tried to figure out what my next move was, I always wanted to start a business, but the question was, what type of business? It was actually my Husband that approached me with the idea of selling sea moss gel. I have a Caribbean background, so I was familiar with it, and after doing more research, I decided it was a great launchpad for the formation of an all natural product line. Now, our list of products includes sea moss gel, handmade shea butter, African black soap and activated charcoal teeth whitening powder. There is a steady movement of people embracing and seeking natural, organic products to improve their health and lifestyle. It is my goal to provide these products with the best quality at affordable prices.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There are definitely challenges along the way, starting a business is not easy. We are in the midst of a global pandemic, a lot of people are out of work, and those that are working are much more discerning about how they spend money. I have to find and earn every customer. I source the best sea moss, shea butter and oils and this comes at premium pricing. One of the biggest challenges is showing value and competing with larger companies that can offer cheaper pricing or free shipping. You also have to stay motivated because one day sales could be great and the next day, not so much. I am constantly researching ways to make my products more visible.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I have always been someone that loved details and creating something beautiful. Growing up, I was into fashion and interior design and loved good food. My mother was an excellent cook and made everything from scratch using fresh, local ingredients. I spent a lot of time in the kitchen with her learning all of our family recipes. The culmination of all this led to my career as an Event Planner. It was the perfect blend of my eye for detail, love of food and my desire to create memorable aesthetics. My friends often came to me for fashion advice or suggestions on where to eat. When people came to my home, they would make comments on how well decorated it was. After having several conversations with some friends, I decided to start a lifestyle blog sharing advice and tips on fashion, food, travel and home. This was the initial start of SimplyMrsSimpson. I am most proud of combining my passions and being able to share them with others via my blog and now through my line of products. It really speaks to who I am as a person.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I think it’s easiest to find mentors in the people closest to you. It could be a family member, co-worker, teacher, friend. The most important thing is to find someone that will listen, encourage, and motivate you. If I want to be mentored by or network with someone, I reach out to them and express my interest and tell them why I chose them, what my goals are, and ask if they are interested in fostering a relationship.
Contact Info:
- Email: simplymrssimpson@gmail.com
- Website: www.simplymrssimpson.com
- Instagram: @simplymrssimpsonproducts @simplymrs.simpson
- Facebook: @simplymrssimpsonproducts
