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Conversations with Michelle Fontaine-Jones

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Fontaine-Jones.

Michelle Fontaine-Jones

Hi Michelle, 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.
Curls & Potions was inspired by the desire to create a solution that would not only cater to the unique needs of natural hair but also prioritize overall health, our brand emerged. I delved into extensive research, exploring innovative ingredients that could nourish and enhance hair health without compromising our health with toxic chemicals. The mission was to offer a holistic approach to haircare that not only celebrated individuality but also promoted a healthier lifestyle. 

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?
The road to building Curls & Potions has been anything but smooth. It’s been a journey filled with challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt but also one of immense growth, resilience, and unwavering determination. 

One of the most significant struggles we’ve faced is the lack of funding. Starting a business with a vision as specific and passionate as ours often means operating on a shoestring budget. There were countless nights spent worrying about how we would afford the next batch of ingredients or how we would manage to pay our team. We had to be resourceful, constantly finding ways to stretch every dollar and maximize our limited resources. 

The economy, too, has been a formidable adversary. Fluctuating market conditions and economic downturns made it even harder to secure funding and maintain steady growth. We faced periods where sales were slow, and the uncertainty of the economic landscape added an extra layer of stress. There were moments when it felt like the world was conspiring against us, testing our resolve at every turn. 

Despite these challenges, each struggle has also been a powerful lesson. The financial hardships taught us to be innovative and resilient. We learned to adapt quickly, pivot when necessary, and always keep the core of our mission in sight. The tough economic conditions forced us to build a strong, loyal community of customers who believe in our vision and support us through thick and thin. 

Another significant challenge was the sheer amount of work required to establish a brand that stands out in a crowded market. There were times when the endless to-do lists, the constant juggling of roles, and the pressure to succeed felt overwhelming. But through it all, the passion for what we do and the stories of those who have benefited from our products kept us going. 

Every struggle, every setback, and every sleepless night has been a part of our journey. They’ve made us stronger, more committed, and more grateful for every small victory. The road has been tough, but the purpose behind Curls & Potions has always been worth it. 

Our journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the belief that with hard work and dedication, we can overcome even the most daunting obstacles. While the path has been rocky, it has also been incredibly rewarding. Each challenge has shaped us into the brand we are today, dedicated to providing innovative, health-conscious haircare solutions and empowering our community to embrace their natural beauty. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
What do I do? At the heart of it, I create solutions that empower people to embrace their natural beauty through Curls & Potions, a natural haircare line focused on innovative and health-conscious products. My journey here is deeply personal and rooted in a blend of diverse experiences and passions. 

My background is in finance and computers, a path that provided me with a strong analytical foundation and a keen eye for detail. Working in finance taught me the importance of strategic planning, resource management, and the ability to navigate through complex challenges. These skills have been invaluable in managing the business side of Curls & Potions, ensuring that we remain sustainable and can continue to grow, even when faced with economic uncertainties. 

However, my true passion lies in creating products that make a difference. This led me down the path of self-learning in product formulation. I immersed myself in research, devouring every bit of information I could find about natural ingredients and their benefits. It was a steep learning curve, but each discovery fueled my passion further. I experimented tirelessly, blending ingredients, testing formulations, and refining our products to ensure they were not only effective but also safe and nourishing. 

Combining my technical background with my newfound love for formulation, I’ve been able to create products that are innovative and grounded in science. This journey has been one of continuous learning and growth, driven by the desire to provide the best for our community. 

Every product we create at Curls & Potions is a labor of love, a result of countless hours of research, experimentation, and a deep commitment to our mission. I strive to offer solutions that not only enhance hair health but also contribute to overall well-being. It’s about more than just haircare; it’s about empowering individuals to feel confident and in control of their beauty and health. 

In essence, what I do is blend my skills in finance, technology, and product formulation to create a brand that stands for innovation, health, and empowerment. It’s a journey that has been both challenging and rewarding and one that I am incredibly passionate about. Each day, I am driven by the stories of those who have found confidence and joy through our products, and it is their support and feedback that inspires me to keep pushing forward. 

Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
The Covid-19 crisis has been a profound learning experience, bringing both challenges and invaluable lessons. It has tested our resilience, adaptability, and commitment to our mission at Curls & Potions in ways we never could have anticipated. 

One of the most significant lessons has been the importance of adaptability. The pandemic caused a dramatic increase in inflation costs for ingredients, making it difficult to maintain the quality of our products without significantly raising prices. We had to get creative, finding new suppliers, and reformulating some products while ensuring we didn’t compromise on our standards. This taught us the value of flexibility and the importance of always having contingency plans. 

The rising costs of leasing a warehouse added another layer of complexity. Just as we were expanding, the financial strain of higher leasing rates forced us to reconsider our logistics and distribution strategies. We learned to optimize our space better, streamline our operations, and negotiate more effectively. It reinforced the necessity of being resourceful and making strategic decisions that prioritize long-term sustainability over short-term gains. 

Additionally, seeing some of our retail partners close their doors was heartbreaking. These closures disrupted our distribution channels and reduced our reach to customers who relied on physical stores. This challenge pushed us to accelerate our digital transformation, enhancing our online presence and direct-to-consumer sales. We discovered the power of a strong online community and the importance of building direct relationships with our customers. It was a reminder that in times of crisis, leaning into innovation and digital solutions can open new doors and opportunities. 

Most importantly, the pandemic underscored the importance of community and support. Navigating these challenges would have been impossible without the unwavering support of our loyal customers and the dedication of our team. It reinforced the belief that businesses are not just about transactions but about building a community that stands by each other in tough times. The gratitude we feel for our community has deepened, and it fuels our commitment to continue providing them with the best products and support. 

The Covid-19 crisis has been a period of intense learning and growth. We’ve faced higher costs, logistical challenges, and the loss of retail partners, but we’ve also emerged stronger and more resilient. This journey has highlighted the importance of adaptability, innovation, and community. It has reminded us of why we started Curls & Potions in the first place – to provide innovative, health-conscious solutions that empower and support our community, no matter what challenges come our way. 

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