Adrienne & Brittany are mother and daughter. Adrienne raised Brittany as a single parent; as a result they have always maintained a strong bond. They have worked hard together to bring their dreams to reality. Hence, the birth of “Elegant Behavior”. Read our interview with the lovely Adrienne below…
What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?
We have always wanted to own our own business. We decided that this is absolutely the right time for us to move forward with our dreams. We could not find any other person that we would have preferred to do business with. We trust each other completely; we know that no matter what, we have each other’s support. We both give and receive constructive criticism and not become offended. We share a love of fashion and are very passionate about encouraging other women. It is important to us that we encourage women to pursue their dreams.
Tell us about your business.
Elegant Behavior is multi-faceted, not only are we fashion and style writers for two magazines, “Bold & Savvy” and “Just Me” Magazine. We are hosts of a weekly podcast, “Let’s Talk Woman 2 Woman”, on intellectualradio.com that airs every Saturday at 11 a.m. CST. Our motto is “inspiring women in faith, fashion and flair”. We have ventured out and started an organic body care line of products called Nzuri Body Essentials, Where Elegance Meets Beauty which includes; all natural shea butters, sugar scrubs, natural soaps, soy candles and more.
Are you currently running any promos/contests/giveaways that you would like our readers to know about?
Yes, we offer new customers 10% off their purchase when subscribing to our mailing list. Also, customers receive a monthly newsletter that includes promotions on products.
List awards/certifications/accomplishments.
We are currently working towards receiving our official certification of makeup artists (which will include the expertise of theater and special effects) and fashion styling.
Where is your business based?
Elegant Behavior is online www.elegantbehavior.com.
What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?
One of the first steps we took was creating videos of different reviews on makeup products and uploading them to YouTube and Facebook to create an audience. We also created business cards to be able to attend networking events and meet other like-minded brands/businesses.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
The most effective way to raise awareness of Elegant Behavior was networking and the podcast, “Let’s Talk Woman 2 Woman”.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
The biggest challenge that we had to endure thus far is to increase sales.
How did you overcome these challenges?
Social Media plays a big part in an increase in sales, as well as, being vendors for different events.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
As a mother-daughter duo who have always had an extremely close genuine relationship. We seem to always motivate one another. Prayer plays a vital role in our success and our ability to remain positive.
How do you distinguish yourself from your competitors?
Being a mother-daughter brand that is multi-faceted isn’t very common. Elegant Behavior hosts a podcast and simultaneously, owns a body care line, does makeup and fashion styling, and writes for two magazines. We believe that we are definitely the first African American mother-daughter that is doing it all at the same time.
What is the best advice you have received recently?
The best advice that has been given would be “work hard for what you want and failure is not an option”. Most importantly to always work with integrity. Integrity goes a long and it says a lot about your brand.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
Our advice to other entrepreneurs would be do your research and do not give up because running/starting a business is NOT easy! Operate your business with integrity and honesty.
What is your favorite business tool or resource?
A favorite brand tool to use for your business would be an app called Canva, you can make post and flyers straight from your phone. Also, Google Drive is a great tool; it allows you to save and share documents and files without needing a computer.
What social media outlets do you use? List them below.
Instagram @elegantbehavior
Twitter @elegantbehavior
Facebook www.facebook.com/ElegantBehavior
Website www.elegantbehavior.com
Email behaveelegantly@gmail.com
Hashtags #elegantbehavior #letstalkwoman2woman
What is a good article or book you have read recently?
“The Circle of Profit: How to Turn Your Passion in $1 Million” by Anik Singal.
What are you currently learning about for your business or looking for help with?
We have been learning more and more about the marketing aspect of our business, we’re seeking help with exposure and sponsorships for upcoming events.
What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?
In April, we are hosting our official launch party for Nzuri Body Essentials. Also in June we’re hosting our first I Am My Sister’s Keeper event which consists of hosting a lunch for women in shelters and donate work attire clothes and shoes, beauty and makeup tips, resume writing assistance and interview tips. We are currently preparing for both events and creating marketing strategies for both events.