Today, we’d like to introduce you to Phantayshia Ivy.
Hi Phantayshia, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
Imani & Wellness is a black woman-owned small business that is dedicated to those with a uterus. I aim to assist through all phases of a woman’s reproductive life while helping the unseen and unheard. As a single mother of a toddler recovering from knee surgery without assistance, I found myself in a challenging situation when I unexpectedly started my cycle.
While off work, I was unable to afford the expensive essential items via delivery services that required taxes, shipping fees, and tips. It was during this tough time that the idea for a monthly subscription service catering to menstrual hygiene products was born.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Hardly lol. No, seriously, I have worked 9-5 jobs since high school, and now, in my early 30s, I’ve decided to pursue entrepreneurship. I’m accustomed to structure and now I have to create it myself. It’s different but liberating.
Most of the struggle is due to the lack of financial backing. There are people skilled in several things it takes to make a business successful. I recognize that and aim to outsource. However, without funding that is difficult to do.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Firstl, thank you! I have come up with a monthly subscription of curated, customizable feminine hygiene products. Brands that you, your mother, and your sister know and love. You can choose from six different subscriptions depending on the amount or type of products you would like delivered every month.
From popular brands such as Tampax, eco-friendly options, and even reusable items, we cater to everyone. Included in every box is an affirmation to remind you how special you are and a gift. We collaborate with other woman-owned small businesses to highlight their products and services as well! Did we mention FREE SHIPPING?
Choose your items, choose your preferred week of delivery and we’ll take it from there! You can change the items from month to month as well. It is like going to the store without the hassle! As a woman with firsthand experience, I understand how that first day feels. Realizing that you have started your cycle (usually at the worst times) and not being prepared is the WORST! Society thrives off convenience, so why not apply that to what we deal with every month?
I would say that I am known for looking at things from every angle. We aim to help not only those with busy lives but also the less fortunate. Our mission is to provide funding and feminine hygiene products to the less fortunate. That is, women leaving the prison system, LGBTQAI+ youth who may not have the proper access , and the unsheltered.
Things such as the “Pink Tax” affect anyone who buys feminine hygiene products. They put an additional tax on items geared toward women. Causing women to pay more for necessities than our male counterparts. This movement is personal to me… it affects us all!
What sets me apart, is my urgency and passion to get my message out there. Women are easily put on the back burner. For me, they are all I can think of! How can I help? What can I do? It is my passion.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I would not necessarily call it luck. It is more like a blessing! It started as a thought and is quickly spreading and growing. People I have never met before living in different states are reaching out to me to see how they can help!
There are no words fitting to express my gratitude. I am blessed with an amazing team that is only growing because they believe in my vision and my mission. Shelly Hanson of Lady Hanson Consulting, Candy Andrade of Light Theory Marketing, and most importantly, my mother, Valencia Ivy, has been my rock. She talks me down every time I spiral.
My team is nothing short of heaven-sent. They have volunteered to assist me in things that I was clearly struggling with, lol. But they see my intent and what difference I am attempting to make in this world. So yes, blessings for sure.
Pricing:
- $29.99 – “The Visitor” Choose 2 items
- $29.99- “ On the Rag”- Customizable option Choose 4 items
- $37.99 – “The Red Wedding”- Choose 3 items
- $30.99- “Crimson Wave,” “Code Red,” – Organic pre-made package, best sellers premade package
- $40.99 – “Lady Business” Choose five items
Contact Info:
- Website: www.iwellness.store
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iwellness.co/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/imaniwellnessllc
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/phantayshia-ivy
