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Samara Walker is the founder and CEO of Lust V Cosmetics. I want to start interviewing young bosses because I believe that it’s important to support people who are business owners. It takes a lot of guts, sweat smiles and tears involved in growing your own business. Sam has combined her love for fashion and beauty while keeping our health and lifestyle in mind.
What made you want to create your own business?
I have always had a passion for entrepreneurship and creativity. Growing up I imagined myself as a super model or business owner. My dreams were never to work for anyone else. My uncle, aunt and grandfather were all entrepreneurs, seeing my family own their own businesses paved the way for me mentally and physically. After college I felt the pressure of society, hence I started my career in corporate America. Shortly after my first corporate job, COMPLETE DISASTER, I realized I wanted to focus on myself and really find my true passion! I wanted to be in control of my life and live all my dreams! Even if my dreams sounded far fetched to others I knew anything was possible! Having the power to control my life journey and experiences is why I started my own business. My past was preparing me for my future! I wanted to be a game changer and role model for others who may have walked my path!
How long did it take you to go from an idea in your head to an actual reality?
The idea went from concept to reality quickly, I shared my interest and passion with my family and started researching manufactures. One month later I order samples and gifted close family and friends with samples from the manufacture! After the testing period and positive feedback on the formula, I went straight to work and started my company!
What is vegan nail lacquer?
No animal by-products are used in our nail polish line and we do not test on animals!
Example: A fairly common use is in metallic and shimmery shades. Check the ingredients labels for the words “pearl” or “guanine”, fish scales which are used in the polish to create this sparkle. We are proud to say that our shimmery shades are created with the mineral Mica, keeping them animal by-product free.
What is 8 Free?
Our polish is free from Toluene, Formaldehyde, Formaldehyde Resin, Camphor, Dibutyl Phthalate, Xylene, Parabens, Fragrances, Animal Products, and Phthalates. Ours is a Vegan Friendly formulation.
Our Formula: #BetterThanGel 7-10 Days! Our “gel like” formula creates a long lasting wear please use 2 coats. Two coats sets with a gel like texture along with the topcoat for a finishing touch creates a long lasting wear.
What is TPHP?
TPHP is Triphenyl phosphate, and recently it was discovered that health concerns surround it. It has been reported that this chemical, when absorbed in the human body, affects hormones and can have effects such as obesity and early puberty. While used in many materials, there is a lot of panic surrounding nail polish in particular. For years, TPHP has been a popular ingredient for nail polish manufacturers as it acts as a flame retardant as well as a plasticizer, providing strength and flexibility to the nail. The question still floats around as to how serious this should be taken. REST ASSURED, our nail colors and all treatments DO NOT CONTAIN TPHP.
What do you feel is the biggest obstacle you had to overcome when it came to starting your company?
One of the biggest obstacles I’ve had to over come is sharing my truth! I am a very personal and private person. But as an entrepreneur when I decided to start my company I realized I had to peal those layers back and open up to share my truth. Stepping outside my comfort zone was extremely hard, its definitely a learning process! Preparing myself for judgment and negative comments is not easy. Being able to share your story and truth is a gift, customers and fans want to connect with a real person not jut a CEO.
If you could go back in time to talk to the Sam when your business was first starting what advice would you give her?
I would tell her to be patient, persistent and god never gives you battles you can’t handle. Signing up to be a business owner and entrepreneur is a life long journey. Your brand should reflect who you are, opinions are important but stay true to your vision. There is light throughout the tunnel, some patches are dark and others are bright but at the end is a shinning light with your name on it!!
I know that on this business journey it can get tough at times what keeps you going on the tough days, are there any affirmations you tell yourself thought out the day?
Some days are harder than others! I remind myself with hard work and dedication anything is possible. I dream big to keep myself motivated! I also think about where I started and how far I’ve come. I have a group of friends who are very supportive, having a solid support system is crucial. Some individuals are not capable of understanding your journey, late nights, constant travel and non stop dreaming. Surrounding myself with like-minded individuals helps me as well, it lets me know I am not alone!
Do you have any advice for any women out there who may want to create a business, but they just feel stuck and don’t know where to start?
My advice is to find your passion/dream and turn your passion into a business. Even before you have a solid idea attend networking events for entrepreneurs, conferences and start up pitches. As I mentioned before being in an environment with like-minded individuals is crucial for your development! This journey is not for everyone, and I don’t say that to discourage anyone but you need tough skin in this business, be prepared for a lot of NO’s, downfalls and disappointments. If your strong enough to withstand the battle you will come out on the other side more successful than you dreamed of.
Y’all Know I had to pick me up a bottle of Sam’s wonderful nail polish. I ordered the Don’t Call it a come back and I absolutely love the color. It’s my first time using a vegan nail polish and I’ve got to say if it’s healthier for my body I should stick to using vegan nail polish moving forward. Are you in need of some new polish? Save some coins by painting your nails yourself. You can order your nail polish below! Thank you so much for stopping by and sharing your story with us Sam. You can keep up with Sam on her website and follow her on Instagram.
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