Today we’d like to introduce you to Yasmine Cooper.
Hi Yasmine, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I am originally from Los Angeles, California, and moved to Florida for college, attending the one and only Florida A&M University. It was there that I developed a passion for all things natural. It would be a few years post-graduation that I would decide to get into making whipped shea butter products as a passion project.
I seem to have always been interested in doing it “from scratch”, from crafting to baking, so when my husband and I were searching for good moisturizers, this was no different. I began researching the best natural and organic products to suit the needs of melanated skin and it has been a wonderful adventure from there. I started Ode To Ebony because I am passionate about our melanated people and the ingredients of the products we are putting on and into our bodies.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Learning all of the important legal stuff it takes to run a professional business can be so overwhelming sometimes, and you don’t always get it right the first few times.
I’ve always been told, “Move out of your comfort zone. You can only grow if you are willing to feel awkward and uncomfortable…” There are so many tasks that I thought I wasn’t “adult” enough to accomplish. Turning my passion project into a business has given me much more confidence. So when I feel like I’m struggling, I know it’s because of pushing my boundaries and growing.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I frequently receive questions like, “Who is Ebony” and “What is an Ode?” So I wanted to share what Ode to Ebony means to me and why I chose this name for my business.
An Ode is a kind of poem, usually praising something. Expressing emotion lyrically-and it is usually addressed to someone or something. Ebony is derived from the name of the “Ebony Tree” that produces a naturally dark-colored wood, that is known to be highly prized when black. When you use our products, you are immersing yourself in the luxury of only the best natural ingredients designed for skin that deserves all of the attention.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
There are a few apps and podcasts that help keep me organized and grounded as well, the ‘Headspace’ app has been beneficial in providing great meditation exercises and focuses music for when I want to get some things accomplished.
The ‘Side Hustle Pro’ podcast has really served as a launchpad and foundation for the better part of my business journey. There are so many resources provided there, it really helped push me in the right direction to start Ode To Ebony. Professionally, many of my resources have been other small business owners in my network. I am grateful to know so many knowledgeable people who are generous with their knowledge and wisdom.
I would have to say that doing my best in life starts with having a healthy relationship with myself. So I take my mental health very seriously, learning to be more aware of when I need a break.
Pricing:
- 4oz. Body Butter – $13
- 8oz. Body Butter – $18
- 1oz. That Oil – $15
- 4oz. Hair Butter – $12
- 8oz Hair Butter – $17
Contact Info:
- Email: odetoebony@gmail.com
- Website: www.odetoebony.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/odetoebony/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OdeToEbony
