Young Visionary Spotlight: Fierra Taylor
Ladies, make-up can be a wonderful thing right? It does wonders! But we can all agree that sometimes cleaning our brushes after applying a days worth of foundation can be a hassle. Life would be easier if there was a product that could do the cleaning for us. This summer (2015) that though will be coming into existence when former Maxim model, Fierra Taylor, launches her Lilumia beauty product.
At just 26 years old, Taylor has made a tremendous list of accomplishments that very few in her age bracket are still trying to achieve or wishing to. In a recent interview with Ms. Taylor, she explained what inspired her to start her own business, the plans that she has for it in the coming months, and what she enjoys doing in her free time.
What inspired you to start your business?
I have always wanted to be an entrepreneur and luckily ran into a problem that needed to be solved. As a full time model I had to wear makeup daily, which also meant that I had to wash my makeup brushes every other day. This was very exhausting, so I looked for a product that could automate the process. I came up empty handed so I saw it as an opportunity to create it myself.
When did your product launch or when is it prospected to launch?
My product is expected to launch late summer of this year (2015)
What has been the biggest challenge that you have faced as a business owner and how have/are you overcoming it?
The biggest challenge I have faced is being a young woman when attempting to raise capital from a male dominated pool of investors. I overcame this challenge by being overly prepared to discuss all aspects of my business, getting advice from other seasoned entrepreneurs that I knew, and always dressed professionally.
What do you like most about running your own business?
I really enjoy the fact that I am bringing a new product to the market that will make a difference in the lives of women who wear makeup often, as well as those whose profession is to apply [it].
Where do you see your business in the next 5 years?
My product will initially launch in the US and my plan within the next 5 years is to expand globally.
When you’re not working, what do you enjoy doing? What are your hobbies?
When I am not working I enjoy attending shows at performing art theaters, as well as playing the cello.
What is your advice to other young people that are sick of working pay check to pay check and have desires to start their own business, but do not have the funds? Where and how can they start developing their own brand?
My advice to young people who are trying to raise capital for their start up is to utilize the crowdfunding sites such as Kickstarter. These sites have proven to be a large source of funding for those who would otherwise not have an opportunity to get their business off the ground. Search online for local entrepreneur or start up communities/workshops that assist individuals with what they need to know and how to get in contact with investors that specialize in start ups. The time to start developing your own brand is NOW, online and offline using social media and networking with others at any given time. As an entrepreneur being sociable is imperative to build your brand and every moment can be an opportunity!