BOSS Spotlight Feature: Jacqueline Jones

The owner of Crystal Eikcaj ™Skin and Hair Care, LLC (Jacqueline Jones) was diagnosed from (1997 to the present) with various health issues. After trying many over-the-counter products, and being prescribed medications/treatments by many physicians, Jacqueline decided to create an organic product line to help improve her health issues.                  

What were some obstacles that you faced in the beginning process of starting your business or career?  As a Solopreneur there were several obstacles to overcome in starting a new business but I will only mention four: Bootstrapping the business for longer than I anticipated, a lack of knowledge about what it takes to operate a business on a daily basis with limited resources, lack of a product production plan and a lack of knowledge of all the requirements needed to get products on the shelf at major retailers. 

What inspired you to break into your industry? 

The greatest inspiration for starting the business was spending over $34,000 dollars from my retirement savings (above what the insurance company paid) to find solutions to many health challenges I faced at the time.  I started to do extensive research, tested many ingredients, and eventually decided to create an organic product line.   Today, Crystal Eikcaj™ has 36 organic products.   NOTE:  I did find my own solutions to problems I have.

How do you balance your personal and professional life, or have you been able to find a balance?

As a Solopreneur, I don’t have time to truly enjoy myself and relax.

What is an inspirational quote that you live by?

“The time we have on earth is limited, so don’t waste it living in the past or being non-productive, but always look forward and step into the future”.

Who were some influential people or mentors that helped or encouraged you along the way?

Georgia Stokes, Tiffany Cartwright, Arthur Cartwright, Lawrence Jackson, Theresa Jones, and Sandra Patrick.

What are your "must-haves" to keep your career or business going strong?

Must have the ability to raise funds or attain grants, in order to get products on the shelf in Super Retail Stores (i.e. Target, Walmart, Meijer, CVS, etc.), as well as, hire and retain employees.  In addition, we need additional funds to contract with Contract Manufacturers (CM) to mass produce our products.

What is your definition of a BOSS?

A BOSS is one who encourages, supports, and provides assistance to other entrepreneurs.  Currently, in our group of females, there are approximately 30 members.  We all have products on the shelf at the River town Meijer Market in the City of Detroit.   To support, promote and encourage one another, in an effort to maintain our presence on the store shelf, we purchase each other products, on a monthly basis.

Provide us with two words that describe you.  "Go Getter"

Learn more about Jacqueline at crystaleikcaj.com

Twitter: @jackie3429