Meet QUTUNUIA BENOIT-CARTER | Herbalist / Retailer

We had the good fortune of connecting with QUTUNUIA BENOIT-CARTER and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi QUTUNUIA, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My thought process for my hair and body products was, I wanted to create real all natural products at an affordable price. If you look at the market for a lot of these products are over priced, and a lot of them contain preservatives that extend shelf life, but it takes them out of the all natural category. So I wanted to create an honest to goodness ” All Natural” product, that everyone can afford.

As for my women’s active wear… It’s hard for plus size women, like myself and larger, to find sturdy, strong, and fashionable clothing all together. I wanted to provide long lasting, sturdy, but comfortable active and shapewear for the plus size women.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
QJ’s Naturals started with fifty dollars and a dream. I’m not where I want to be yet, but I’m still pressing towards my mark. I want to open the doors of my own all natural and organic retail shop. What sets me apart is my drive and motivation, along with the heart to give. The money is a plus, but I love helping people to feel good. I got to where I am with hard work, determination, and the drive to never give up. If my idea or plans fall through the cracks, I get back up and come up with something better. I’ve also , learned from my mistakes. Being in business for myself has taught me patience and understanding,, that everything is done in Gods timing, like this. I’m so humbled and overjoyed that you chose me to do and interview. I want the world to know that I am dedicated to bring them “REAL, ALL NATURAL”, hand crafted products for their hair and body. As for my story, it doesn’t matter how small your start is, just do it and stay consistent. Believe in yourself and keep God first.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love going to True Spa Day Spa for a day of relaxing and pampering myself. It’s hands down the best spa in Houston. They serve snacks, wine, and they have a range of services you can receive. They have nail techs, massage techs, an onsite esthetician, and you can do a little retail shopping. If you’re planning a party…check out Eventz3, on IG. I also love going to 51fifteen Cuisine and Cocktails, their drinks are to die for, and the food is excellent. The Rustic is another place that I like. The atmosphere and people are great, it has a country western feel, and the food is delish. Also try out Bar 5015 on Almeda Rd, it’s a great late nighttime hangout spot. It’s a very friendly adult atmosphere, with an open patio. The music is always jumping, and they have fantastic food choices. I don’t get out much, since I’m always working. But these are a few of my favorites.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The first person I want to thank is God….. Because without him, I wouldn’t have even had the dream or vision. Secondly, I want to thank my mentor/sister and a very close friend Rhonda Nutall, she’s the owner of Thiz Is Me. She pushed me, motivated me, dropped business gems on me, she has been there through it all. On days when I felt like giving up, and when business got rough, she’s has always been there, and still is to this very day. Because of her pushing me, I started my business with fifty dollars and a dream. Now I have products being sold in Fade The City Barbershop AND True Spa Day Spa. I want to thank the “B.A.BE. Group” founders, Latanya Oliver for giving me my first spot on the shelves of her Spa, and Louis Grant for my second spot at the barbershop. I also want to thank my wonderful husband, mother and a few other relatives and friends, for their never ending support. I am so grateful and humbled by this journey in life and business. I also want to give a shout out to the B. A. B. E Group as a whole. I love y’all B.A.B.E.S💞

Website: https://www.qjsnaturals.com

Instagram: @qjsnaturals

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/qjsnaturalsllc

Other: Business Email: qjsnaturalsllc@gmail.com