Q&A with Model-Turned-Entrepreneur Zondra Wilson

"Blu Skin Care, LLC” was created by actress/model Zondra Wilson after years of being asked, "What do you use on your skin”? "My family is from the South and my mom and aunt would tell me stories about how they couldn't afford expensive skin care products and how they used natural ingredients like Olive and Coconut Oils. I noticed that their skin was so soft and smooth and had very few (if any) wrinkles. So, I tried using some of these ingredients and haven't looked back. You can't put a price tag on the healthy, beautiful, and ageless skin. I am convinced I've found the fountain of youth.”

After booking numerous modeling jobs for billion-dollar companies such as Merz, Best Buy, and Pfizer, Zondra decided to launch a USDA certified organic skincare line. “Blu Skin Care” manufacturers the only American-made USDA certified organic powdered facial cleanser sold in the United States. Zondra is also the only female, African American owner, manufacturer & distributor of a skin care company with USDA certified organic accreditation in the United States.

Can you tell our readers about your background?

I’m a former newscaster and sports reporter from the Midwest. I am not only a business owner but a model and union actress living in Los Angeles.

What inspired you to start your business?

I created Blu Skin Care, LLC” after years of being asked, "What do you use on your skin”? My family is from the South and my mom and aunt would tell me stories about how they couldn't afford expensive skin care products and how they used natural ingredients like Olive and Coconut Oils. I noticed that their skin was so soft and smooth and had very few (if any) wrinkles. 

Where is your business based?

Blu Skin Care is based in Southern California.  

How did you start your business? What were the first steps you took?

I started Blu Skin Care by using my paycheck from a modeling gig. The first thing I did was decide which formula’s to use in my skincare line. There were a few to choose from. I nailed down seven formula’s and launched Blu from there.

What has been the most effective way of raising awareness for your business?

The most effective way of raising awareness for my brand has been utilizing social media. I post video’s and motivational quotes to help inspire and encourage my followers and customers.

What have been your biggest challenges and how did you overcome them?

My biggest challenge has been delegating tasks. I’m still working on doing this. It’s hard! My niece is an accountant and she helps out.

How do you stay focused?

I stay focused with meditation and prayer. I don’t know if I could stay sane in this business without prayer. It’s so important to keep me focused and motivated to keep going.

How do you differentiate your business from the competition?

Blu Skin Care is the only USDA Certified Organic Skin Care Product Line that is owned and operated by an African American Female. We are also the only USDA certified organic skin care product line that sells a powdered facial cleanser.

What has been your most effective marketing strategy to grow your business?

My most effective marketing strategy has been uploading videos of me heading out to auditions, health fairs, or booked jobs. I explain which product I’ve used that day and why. I allow my viewers to see why Blu Skin Care works for me and why it could work for them.

What's your best piece of advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs?

My best piece of advice to inspiring entrepreneurs is to surround yourself with like-minded people. Stay focused and never give up.

What's your favorite app, blog, and book? Why?

My favorite App is Google Docs. It is free and does not require a subscription, can be used to edit, export, and view documents (among other things), making it the perfect way to interact with Google's productivity software. I don’t have a favorite blog, but my favorite book is Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson. This book is great because Jobs is so transparent and it really helped me understand the ups and downs of building a successful business. 

My favorite business tool is Canva. I like Canva because I’m able to create beautiful social media banners and graphics. Best of all…it’s free. 

Who is your business role model? Why?

My business role Model is Daymond John, founder of FUBU. I really respect the hustle of how he started and built his empire. He reminds me of myself and I would love to have him as a mentor. 

What do you have planned for the next six months?

Over the next six months, I’m planning on participating in dozens of health and wellness fairs. I love working health fairs because it gives me a chance to educate the public on a healthier alternative to obtaining and maintaining beautiful skin.

How can our readers connect with you?

Your readers can connect with me in several ways; email: zondra@bluskincare.info Twitter @bluskincare Instagram @bluskincare Facebook www.facebook.com/bluskincare  Pinterest Zondra Wilson