We had the good fortune of connecting with Monica Martin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Monica, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
I’m a mother of three boys! I homeschool them all and that my friend.. is NOT easy! But, it so worth it! It’s worth the time spent, the knowledge gained (for them and I), and the connection we’ve created. The most important thing I’ve done as a parent that will impact my children is… running a business (Honey Mocha Essentials LLC). not giving UP, loving their father and always being there! My children see the ins and outs of us running our small business, working, homeschooling, balancing our everyday lives etc, They see the frustrations, us creating products, the consistency it takes, sales, the errors… they see it ALL! I want them to see that no matter what’s going on, to never give up! We (my husband and I) have always included our children in our plans, while we’re creating, information on running a business etc, They’re exciting to learn and they are always excited to feel included! We do this to not only teach them, but to encourage them to explore their passions unapologetically! To let go of the “what if” and to explore the possibilities of “I am”, “I will”, “I can”! Rather we admit it or not.. we are all a product of our childhood environment. With learning this I vowed to create a safe, loving, determined, ambitious and creative space for my children to thrive in! The best thing I can do for my children is to continue to show them what it looks like to follow their dreams, to create the life they all desire, to love each other unconditionally and to teach them everything I’ve learned late. I Must say they are extraordinary children who in turn; has taught me way more than I could ever teach them! For this I am humbled and forever grateful. Mommy & Daddy loves you (Kingston Eli, Sean Taylor and Legend Kendric)

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I am the creator/ owner of Honey Mocha Essentials LLC. Honey Mocha Essentials is a vegan product line that specializes in all natural, moisturizing products (i.e. body oils, body butter, shea butter, handmade soap and more)! Creating healthy, all natural products was the driving force for its creation! I began by creating massage oils for clients and it encourage me to expand my horizons! I later began making candles and handmade soap! I’ve always wanted to be an entrepreneur ever since I was a little girl so seeing the growth in my business is such a surreal experience! I’m most excited to see the continued growth in myself and in Honey Mocha Essentials! Being a business owner is not easy. It requires discipline. dedication, organization and patience! I am a photographer, a soap maker. a marketing specialist, packaging supervisor, postal worker, website creator and MORE! I mean that technically of course, all for my small business! It requires you to get out of your comfort zone and let go of fear! I’ve learned to not procrastinate when it comes to running a small business. We’re different because Honey Mocha Essentials products are made with pure intent and love! We have products safe for the entire family and we’re soon expanding to Robes and nightwear (men & women)! We’re here to re-invent self care! I want the world to know to watch out for Honey Mocha Essentials! Because we will impact the world someday soon!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I LOVE Houston! My favorite places are Hermann Park for the Museum District! The Natural Science Museum is my favorite! We’d more than likely go to one of my favorite breakfast/brunch restaurants Lucille’s or The Breakfast Klub! I’m an outdoor person so Buffalo Bayou is a great place to see HOUSTON’S amazing skyline! Midtown Art Center has always brought great theater from local stars! If you’re lucky you can catch one of Vincent Victoria’s Productions! There’s so many amazing places to eat and shop here! Turkey Leg Hut, Sunshine’s Health food store Soul food Vegan are excellent for lunch and dinner! 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?
Shoutout to my honey Valmond A. Martin he has pushed me in such a encouraging and loving way that it inspired me to love harder, try more and to follow ALL of my dreams. His kindness and resilient nature exudes Boss and has rubbed off on me in the most amazing way possible. He’s been there with me through the sleepless nights, the slow times and the success! I wouldn’t want to do life with anyone else! He’s my person and an amazing person he is! Thank you for always being there and making me feel like I can and will do anything!

Website: www.honeymochaessentials.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/honeymochaessentials
Facebook: www.facebook.com/honeymochaessentials

Image Credits
photo cred: Frances Jackson

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.