Today we’d like to introduce you to Dona McKenzie.
Hi Dona, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Growing up, I loved playing dress-up, I would use my mom’s and grandmother’s jewelry to accessorize. The love of dressing up and accessorizing never left.
Exploring more of my creative side and love for accessories, in 2013, I began making beaded bracelets with inspiring charms. Fast forward to today, I still create beaded bracelets but have expanded my to include necklaces, earrings (beaded and non-beaded) and beaded home accents.
More recently, while sheltering-in-place, I began making hand-poured scented candles, with inspiring names. I added scents that would not only give your space a calm and relaxing feel, but uplift your mood as well.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not too smooth. Starting a new business has its challenges, and I did have a few. I didn’t think of myself as a “salesperson” so, one of the biggest challenges I had was figuring out how do I get more people beyond family and coworkers to know about my business and product. Of course, word of mouth helps, but if I wanted more growth in my business, I had to become the salesperson I didn’t think I was.
Another challenge I had along the way is getting past the feeling of rejection and being vulnerable, wanting others to support my business and love what I created just as much as I do.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Professionally, I have been with the State of GA for 30 years. I started as a Student Intern doing various clerical assignments. While working, I attended Perimeter College and Georgia State University, where I received my Accounting Degree. I have worked for different agencies within the State and have been able to learn various business processes of each.
The Entrepreneur/Creative part of me is where I long to be. I’m one of those people that have those ‘creative’ tabs open. I am constantly thinking of more inspiring ideas and concepts that will give people a positive experience with my business.
What matters most to you?
There are a couple of things that matter most to me, which are family and inspiring others. I know it may sound cliche, but I think family matters most to me because they are a part of who I am and have in many ways, helped shape me into who I am today.
Inspiring others matters to me as well. It’s a part of my soul. I always want to make a positive impact on people, inspire them in some way, whether it’s through my products, my words, or my actions.
Contact Info:
- Email: Chocolateroseonline@gmail.com
- Website: Chocolateroseonline.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/chocorose31
- Facebook: Facebook.com/chocolateroseonline2
Image Credits:
Candle (customer shared image) Shunda A.
