Today we’d like to introduce you to Adria Marshall.
Hi Adria, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey with Ecoslay began out of a personal need for natural, eco-friendly hair care products. It all started in my kitchen, experimenting with natural ingredients to create nourishing hair solutions. A major turning point was when our Orange Marmalade hair gel went viral after a friend in the curly hair community shared a review on YouTube. This event marked our transition from a small home operation to a significant brand in the natural hair care market.
As we grew, we maintained our core values of ingredient integrity, education, sustainability, and kindness. A prime example of this is our partnership with Truly Living Well Farm. This collaboration isn’t just about sourcing ingredients; it’s about being actively involved in planting, nurturing, and harvesting the ingredients we use in our products. It reflects our deep commitment to truly sustainable practices and a hands-on approach to ingredient sourcing.
We’ve also established the Ecobator program, which embodies our commitment to supporting the eco-friendly business community. This initiative offers budding entrepreneurs cost-effective and sustainable small-batch formulation and manufacturing solutions, along with professional services and mentorship. It’s our way of nurturing and supporting those who share our vision of sustainability in business.
Today, Ecoslay stands as more than just a brand; it’s a testament to the power of community, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to eco-friendly practices. Our journey has been about blending a passion for quality hair care with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship, both in our products and in supporting others in the green business community.
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 success for Ecoslay has been exhilarating and challenging in equal measure. Since Orange Marmalade went viral and thrust us into the spotlight, we’ve been on a continuous learning curve, navigating the complexities of a rapidly growing business.
It hasn’t always been a smooth journey. We’ve essentially been learning on the go, often flying by the seat of our pants. Every aspect of our business, from wholesaling, pricing strategy, and marketing to the intricacies of cosmetic testing, taxes, trademarking, and more, presented its own set of challenges.
For instance, developing an effective pricing strategy was crucial in balancing affordability for our customers with the need to sustainably grow our business. In marketing, we had to quickly adapt to the demands of a wider audience while staying true to our core values. Understanding the nuances of cosmetic testing and ensuring compliance with regulations was another area where we had to rapidly upskill.
Taxation and trademarking were areas we had to approach with caution and precision, requiring us to seek expertise and navigate complex legal landscapes. Each of these aspects was a learning opportunity, pushing us to grow and adapt.
These struggles, however, have been invaluable. They’ve shaped Ecoslay into a more resilient, knowledgeable, and adaptable business. Despite the challenges, our commitment to producing high-quality, eco-friendly hair care products has been the guiding light, keeping us focused on our mission and values.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Ecoslay is more than just a hair care brand; it’s a sustainable and community movement.
What sets Ecoslay apart is our unwavering commitment to our community and the planet. We don’t just use eco-friendly ingredients; we take a holistic approach to sustainability. This involves everything from our manufacturing processes to our packaging choices. Over two years ago, we decided that our recycling program wasn’t enough and ditched our plastic bottles in favor of sustainable pouches and refillable jars. To drive this point home, our partnership with Truly Living Well farm allows us to be involved in the cultivation of our ingredients, ensuring they are grown in a way that benefits the earth and aggressively pushes the envelope in relation to sustainability and community support.
And thanks to our Ecobator program. We get to share our secrets with the world. This initiative supports budding entrepreneurs in the eco-friendly space, offering them small-batch manufacturing and professional mentorship. It reflects our dedication not just to our own growth but to fostering a community of environmentally conscious businesses.
At Ecoslay, we want our customers to feel good about the products they use – not just for the results they see in their hair but for the knowledge that they’re choosing a brand that prioritizes the health of the environment and our community. We’re for those who want to embrace their natural beauty responsibly and sustainably.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
The COVID-19 crisis was a period of significant learning and adaptation for us at Ecoslay. One of the most crucial lessons was the importance of agility and strategic thinking, especially in supply chain management. With the pandemic straining global supply chains, we had to quickly reevaluate and adjust our sourcing strategies. This meant identifying alternative suppliers and finding innovative ways to maintain our inventory, all while staying true to our commitment to sustainability and quality.
Another key lesson was the vital role of clear and proactive communication with our customers. The logistical challenges brought about by the pandemic affected not only our supply chain but also our shipping timelines. We realized the importance of keeping our customers informed about stock availability and potential shipping delays. This transparency helped in managing expectations and maintaining trust, even in the face of uncertainty.
These experiences during the COVID-19 crisis reinforced the value of resilience and open communication in business. They highlighted how crucial it is to be adaptable, to anticipate challenges, and to keep our customers informed every step of the way. These lessons have not only helped us navigate the pandemic but have also strengthened our business practices in the long run.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ecoslay.com
- Instagram: @ecoslay
- Facebook: @ecoslay
- Linkedin: @ecoslay
- Twitter: @ecoslay
- Youtube: @ecoslay
Image Credits
Jaxon Photography
