Nessfeli Natural Skincare®, LLC is a small black women-owned family business grounded in the belief that what nature has to offer is always the best! Vanessa Howard Grissom and Felicia Michelle are the owners. Vanessa was born and raised in Harlem and is a married mom of four. Felicia was born and raised in Stamford, CT. She is married to Vanessa’s brother and a mom of two.
Both women are very passionate about the representation of women of color in an industry that has not always allowed for us to be seen. Felicia and Vanessa pride themselves on producing a full luxury line of skincare products that are inclusive to all skin types. The mompreneurs hope to see the products in your nearest Neiman Marcus or Saks Fifth Avenue someday soon.
What are some of the most unique characteristics of Nessfeli Natural Skincare®, LLC?
We’re a black woman-owned business. We use natural and organic plant-derived oils and butters, and our products are free of animal-derived ingredients (Vegan) and Parabens. We have a preference for wildcrafted and fair trade ingredients sourced from ethical suppliers.
Vanessa, how do you apply your experience as a health and wellness coach to your business?
Vanessa: My experience as a health and wellness coach is one of the reasons why it is so important to me to have quality ingredients in our products. After all, the skin is one of the largest organs in the body. You have to be mindful of what you put on it and how it will affect you long term.
Felicia, what is different or the same from your experience between the beauty industry and the corporate sector?
Felicia: Upon leaving the corporate sector and entering into the beauty industry I immediately realized that the beauty industry will continuously influence business and brand ownership. Which the corporate sector did not encourage me to do.
What do you both enjoy the most about being business partners?
Felicia: I truly enjoy having a business partner that values my opinions and suggestions. She makes it incredibly easy to communicate effectively which is vital for any partnership. To say that she keeps NessFeli Skincare on its toes would be an understatement.
Vanessa: I love the knowledge Felicia brings to the table. She has been an entrepreneur for many years and is able to provide a broad fearless view whereas I sometimes can be super conservative with decisions. No risk no reward!
What are some memorable testimonials from clients that obtain your products and services?
We literally love all of the reviews we receive, to be honest. Feedback from our customers is so important to us! We love when our customers tell us they use our products daily day and night! It feels good to know we are a part of their daily skincare regimen
What products from your company that you use the most on yourself and why?
Felicia: My favorite product this time of year would have to be our Acai Creme Cleaner and Vitamin C Serum due to the extremely dry weather in the Metropolitan area. These two products keep my dry skin moisturized during the winter months.
Vanessa: Vitamin C Serum, Phytonutrient Eye Gel, and Adzuki Bean and Oatmeal exfoliate are my absolute favorites. The Serum helps with hyperpigmentation and also prevention of fine line wrinkles. I’m all about anti-aging products. I love the eye gel for the dark area under my eyes, and I absolutely love the way my skin glows after using the exfoliate. It is effective without being too harsh.
What is the best business advice you have ever received that you could pay forward to our readers?
Felicia: Continuous education can help you diversify your business portfolio.
Vanessa: Take your branding very seriously, invest in it. This is how you will get customers’ attention.
Learn, purchase, keep up to date by visiting https://www.nessfeliskincare.
Photo Credit: @wakeupfresco
Interview Done By: Tammy Reese | @tammyreesemedia
Source: https://swagheronline.com/black-women-behind-luxury-skincare/