HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE WHAT SILK + HONEY DOSE AS A BRAND? WHAT ARE ITS GOALS?  

We share our passion for all things natural with a simple approach to Do-It-Yourself beauty and cosmetics. We provide customers with information about the importance of using natural ingredients in skincare products – their benefits – and share our experience of the DIY process. Our aim is to enable our customers to make their own creams and cosmetics that are fresh, highly effective, and free from harmful chemicals.

WHAT KINDS OF CHALLENGES CAN COME UP WHEN CREATING NATURAL PRODUCTS?

When working with suppliers around the globe our primary challenge is ensuring that we’re working with suppliers that have the same values of quality and take the same pride in their work as we do; therefore, offering the highest quality and purest natural beauty ingredients. This allows us to create a problem-solving formulation that can get you the results you desire.  

YOU ARE JUST AT THE START OF THE SILK + HONEY JOURNEY, BUT WHAT SO FAR HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENT?

I’ve had quite a few proud moments thus far but if I have to choose only one it would be my first trade-show. There I was, surrounded by so many amazing brands, introducing Silk + Honey To the world for the very first time. I was thinking to myself, right before the show opened its doors, that if I could get just a few people interested in my products I would be so happy. Little did I know the response would be overwhelming.

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL WORKDAY LOOK LIKE FOR YOU AT THE MOMENT?

On a typical day, I can be doing anything from researching new suppliers, contacting brands we want to partner with, working with photographers for Silk + Honey website, shopping for props, writing newsletters, or social media content along with answering emails and creating new products. Some days I don’t sleep much, and the more business grows, the more people depend on me. 

IS THERE SOMEONE THAT YOU REALLY ADMIRE OR LOOK UP TO IN THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY? 

There are so many amazing people in this industry, but no one person that I would say I look up to. However, I do Admire brands that are truly all-natural. Brands that offer packaging that’s clear, with ingredients laid out simply, and claims that are backed up with science. 

WHAT GROWTH CAN WE EXPECT TO SEE FROM SILK + HONEY OVER THE NEXT 5 YEARS?

I’m working on growing our online store with product offerings that will consist of women’s apparel and accessories, intimates, home décor, and gifts. My goal is to build a lifestyle brand catered to creative, educated, and socially conscious women and men. 

WHAT’S THE BEST BUSINESS ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED AND TAKEN? 

The best business advice I received was from my brand designer, Rose Cornish. 

“Anything worth doing is worth doing right.” This statement has been ingrained in my brain.

WHAT’S THE FIRST BEAUTY PRODUCT YOU EVER LEARNED TO MAKE?

The first beauty product I ever learned how to make was hair conditioner. Years ago, my hair was very damaged, and I was trying to bring it back to health so I learned how to make my own hair conditioner.

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT FAVORITE SILK+ HONEY PRODUCTS?

I truly love all of my products but my must-have products are Silk + Honey lip-gloss and Brighter Day Herbal Repair Balm.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO CREATE DIY KITS AS OPPOSED TO READY-MADE PRODUCTS?    

I liked the idea of the kits being used as an education tool. Because you must make the products yourself, you learn about each ingredient and the role that it plays in the finished product. I also like the idea of customers having a product that’s fresh, and hasn't been sitting on some retail shelf for who knows how long. Most of our products have a shelf life of around a year or so. However, we encourage our customers to use their products within 6 months after making them.  

HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH YOUR BUSINESS NAME?

I was looking for a name that resonated with me and was easy for people to remember. It was a group effort between myself and my design team to come up with a meaningful name. Before we started throwing out suggestions we agreed on a few things. The name had to have honey in it, as it is one of my favorite skincare ingredients. It also had to sound premium as we are a luxury brand, and it had to be memorable. It took a few hours of throwing out suggestions until one designer suggested Silk + Honey. We all loved it! As for the by Sharonda Flynn, I felt that having my name on my company’s branding builds trust. Customers like to know there are real people behind a business who will be accountable for their products and services.

HOW DO YOU BUILD AN ONGOING RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR CUSTOMERS?

There are many online tools and social media outlets that we use to reach our customers. Communication is essential. We will continue to build ongoing relationships by having conversations with our customers to Find out what their needs are, then show them that we have a solution to their problem. We will continue to raise the bar on what our company offers and exceed customer expectations. We listen carefully to comments and respond promptly, whether it’s a compliment or a complaint. We will reward long-time customers with an online loyalty discount program to show our appreciation.

HOW DO YOU ACHIEVE WORK-LIFE BALANCE?

Starting and running a business is hard work. When I first started Silk + Honey, I would literally work all day non-stop if I could. This led to stress, poor eating habits, low energy, and no time for a social life, (The joys of being an entrepreneur). I realized that in order for me to live my best life, and help others, I had to make some changes. I only take on projects I love and believe in. I never take on more than I can handle, and I learned that it’s ok to say no. I love what I do but I also love myself, family, and friends. I make sure that I take time out to eat properly, exercise, meditate, and spend time having fun with the people I love, basically Practice what I preach. 

WHAT INSPIRED YOUR JOURNEY TO DEVELOP SILK + HONEY? WHAT WERE YOU DOING BEFORE?   

Before Silk + Honey, I was writing my book for natural beauty recipes. Like most good business ideas my journey started as a hobby. For years I struggled with my hair and skin. After damaging my hair with chemicals time and time again, and realizing that many store-bought cosmetics and beauty products contain potentially toxic chemicals, I became passionate about creating my own products.

WHAT ARE YOU LEARNING NOW? WHY IS THAT IMPORTANT? 

As a growing business, I’m constantly learning new things every day and it’s all-important.  

At the moment I'm working on developing a growing dictionary for natural beauty ingredients. The dictionary will be used as an essential educational tool on our website. I’m on a journey to learn as much as I possibly can about natural ingredients and offer guidelines on how to use them in your beauty products. 

HOW DO YOU WANT WOMEN TO FEEL WHEN USING YOUR PRODUCTS?

I want my products to make women look forward to caring for their body, even the parts that usually get ignored, let’s say their feet for instance. I want women to feel confident, pampered, and beautiful. 

WHAT ROLE DO YOU THINK SOCIAL MEDIA PLAYS IN BEAUTY TODAY?

I think social media is rapidly changing the way beauty brands connect and communicate with consumers. Purchasing decisions are definitely influenced by social media. It has a massive impact on the way brands promote products. I know first hand that it’s definitely helping grow niche brands like mine. 

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BUYING A SILK + HONEY KIT AS OPPOSED TO SOMEONE JUST SOURCING THE INGREDIENTS ON THEIR OWN? 

When someone buys a Silk + Honey kit they can feel confident that they're getting the highest quality and purest natural ingredients. I’m committed to sourcing our ingredients from sustainable sources that offer high-quality ingredients because we know that we need to make products that not only work but are good for our customers and our planet.

HOW DID YOU GET WHERE YOU ARE TODAY? WHO OR WHAT HELPED YOU ALONG THE WAY? 

I have the most amazing family and friends who give me a tremendous amount of support. Without their support and love, Silk + Honey would not have happened. I’ve been fortunate enough to have  lots of friends who are very talented. Many of them have worked on Silk + Honey for little or no money at some point in time. They believe in me, and I don’t want to let them down, so I work hard every day to continuously build a brand they can be proud of. 

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST STRENGTH AND WEAKNESS IN BUSINESS?

My creativity is my greatest strength. I always had a very creative personality and a clear vision of what I want and that’s worked in my favor. My greatest weakness is that I sometimes have a hard time letting go of a project. I’m the biggest critic of my work, and I can always find something that needs to be improved or changed.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU GIVE WOMEN WHO ARE LOOKING TO ENTER THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY?

Learn as much as possible. Don’t think you know it all, because no one does. All the greatest entrepreneurs are still constantly learning and evolving. Know that success is not final, failure is not fatal, and It is the courage to continue that counts. 

WHERE DO YOU GO FOR INSPIRATION WHEN WORKING ON A NEW PRODUCT?

My inspiration comes from ingredients. I am constantly exploring new ingredients that I discover through my travels and research.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE ROLE OF LUCK IN YOUR SUCCESS SO FAR?

I think a big part has been recognizing a gap in the market at the right time and providing a product and service in a completely different way.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR EVERYDAY HABITS FOR YOUNGER-LOOKING SKIN?

I exfoliate at least twice a week. It removes dead, dulling skin cells and gets the blood circulating at the skin’s surface, helping to create a brighter appearance. I always use skin care products with SPF of 30 or greater after washing my face every morning. I nourish my body by eating plenty of fruits and veggies, which is not hard for me as I enjoy eating this way. I avoid having too much caffeine, and I don't smoke or drink alcohol. I make exercising a priority, get plenty of sleep, and use meditation as a stress reliever.

Research suggests that the practice may slow down aging and reduce its signs by improving well-being and hormonal health. Last but not least, I always find time to have a good laugh. When you start to laugh, it doesn't just lighten your load mentally, it actually induces physical changes in your body. Laughter enhances your intake of oxygen-rich air, stimulates your heart, lungs, and muscles, and increases the endorphins that are released by your brain, just to name a few things. 

HOW DOES ONE START A SKINCARE ROUTINE IF THEY DON’T HAVE ONE?

Before starting any skincare routine, I would suggest having your skin analyzed by a licensed skincare professional esthetician or dermatologist. They will help you figure out how to characterize your unique skin so you can choose the proper skin care. I always like to keep things simple when it comes to just about anything, especially my skincare routine.

There are essentially three products you'll need, which are a cleanser, toner, and moisturizer. You need a cleanser to clear away dirt, sweat, bacteria, and oil that collects on your skin during the day; you need a toner to help bring your pH levels back to an acidic level (this maintains your skin's acid mantle, the barrier that keeps bacteria out and moisture in); and you need a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated, plump, and maintain youthful-looking skin. Try Silk + Honey Fountain of Youth Correcting Balm, or if you're acne-prone, opt for our Brighter Day Herbal Repair Balm. 

HOW MANY TIMES A DAY DO YOU SUGGEST WASHING YOUR FACE?

Most people can tolerate washing their face twice a day. Once in the morning and once in the evening. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.  You might have to wash your face more than twice a day if you live in a hot, humid climate, or somewhere with high levels of pollution. Another situation when you might need to wash more than twice a day is if you work out. Removing makeup before you work out and washing your face after exercising is always a good idea since sweat and oil can buildup in your pores and lead to breakouts.

On the flip side of things, if your skin is very irritated or you're experiencing active inflammation such as flareups of rosacea or eczema, you might cut down to washing once a day, in which case you should wash at night to rid your skin of makeup, sweat, dirt, oils, and pollution from the day. 

WHAT ARE YOUR TIPS FOR GETTING AN EVEN SKIN TONE?

Use a gentle exfoliator 3 times a week to keep your skin cells shedding at a regular rate. This will help cell turnover and promotes an even complexion. Use natural products that contain antioxidants, like vitamin C and retinol. Try silk + Honey Brighter Day Herbal Repair Balm, which can help lighten sun spots and acne marks. Always, remember to use sunscreen.  

WHAT IS YOUR TIP FOR GETTING RID OF A ZIT OVERNIGHT? 

Green tea is one of my favorite treatments for reducing the size of a zit overnight. Simply place a lukewarm, soaked green tea bag on the affected area for three minutes. The heat and dampness will help draw the bacteria out while the anti-inflammatory caffeine in the tea bag reduces redness. Next, apply a salicylic acid treatment over the affected area. The salicylic acid will exfoliate away any dirt and debris or bacteria left in the pore. 

IS THE ORDER FOR APPLYING DIFFERENT SKINCARE PRODUCTS IMPORTANT?

Yes, the order you apply your products in matters. Applying products in the correct order gives each product the chance to penetrate your skin. You would typically start by cleansing; then applying your toner; applying an essence; a serum; then an oil; followed by an SPF. 

WHAT’S THE BEST SUNSCREEN FOR YOUR FACE? 

Look for a sunscreen that contains an SPF of 30 to 50 and is broad-spectrum, which means it protects against UVA (which causes aging) and UVB (which causes burning) rays. If you tend to break out easily, you'll want to stay away from pore-clogging ingredients and look for non-comedogenic gel and lotion sunscreen. 

FACIAL SERUM VS. FACIAL MOISTURIZER — WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

Moisturizers are usually thick and creamy, and heavier than serums. A good moisturizer hydrates the skin and prevents water loss. Serums are usually lighter, absorbs quickly into the skin, and made with a number of active ingredients to penetrate deeply into your skin. Serums are not meant to replace moisturizers but to work alongside a moisturizer to boost hydrating effects. 

WHEN SHOULD I SEE A DERMATOLOGIST? HOW DO I FIND ONE?

I think you should see a dermatologist if you notice any suspicious moles or marks, a new skin condition forming, or if your breakouts get out of control. 

To find a dermatologist check out the American Academy of Dermatology's website (aad.org) or the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery's site (asds.net). Type in your zip code to find a board-certified dermatologist in your area.

WHAT CAUSES ACNE?

From what I learned through research; the cause of acne is unknown. However, there's a number of things that can make acne worse. A bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes, that lives deep in your pores which feeds off the oil your sebaceous glands produce. Your hormones being out of balance, stress, and diet can all contribute to acne.