We had the good fortune of connecting with Naundi Cook and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Naundi, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The most important factor that I always relay to people behind my success, is definitely never cutting corners. I spend long hours researching. As well as long hours in the lab, perfecting the science portion of things and figuring out what works best. I really focus on setting myself apart. My business is truly my passion. I feel like when you are that passionate about something, its a must that you execute every step to the best of your ability, every time. And my customers see that. They know that. And they respect that.
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 have a plant-based skincare business called FeelNu by Naundi. It is mostly online-based, but I do events as well. I feature organic body scrubs, whipped buttercreams, lip oils, bath salts, spiritual body oils, and so much more! I take pride in using the finest ingredients and going as organic as I possibly can. I wanted to have a line that is plant-based, yet still go all out with my packaging. My products are packaged in a way that is very modern, yet they are just as raw, if not more, than a product with a hand-written label. I cut the middle man out of everything. I design, create, and print whatever I need. I also service other businesses with their branding needs. Trying my best to perfect every step and constantly elevate my business is what I think really sets me apart. Running a business as a mother of two children with a pretty decent age gap has its obstacles. It isn’t always easy. There are long nights that I have cried and cried while working. But I learned that its important to set boundaries. Because if you are burnt out, your business can’t thrive. I am constantly learning. But when I learn, I make sure to actually apply all of the knowledge that I gain, into my business. I had made scrubs for an event in 2019, but was never serious about it. I started out seriously, in June of 2020. So, shortly after the pandemic got serious here in the US. It just really took off instantly, and it is only getting better and better. I started off with just a foot scrub, body scrub, and lip scrub, Now I sell dozens of products! I believed in myself for the first time, and took a leap of faith. I am so glad that I did.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The perfect week in my area would definitely consist of a lot of eating. There is pretty much nothing to do around here other than eat and drink. I love it though. So, on Monday we would go to Sedona Taphouse for the steak for charity night. It is an amazing steak for the price, and their happy hour is the bomb. I love their food in general. Going to Ragged Branch distillery, breweries, and wineries would also be on the list. There unfortunately are no good places to shop. Which sucks, because I love to shop… but we would do some more eating. The yeast rolls at Shadwell’s are phenomenal. I think they’re like Thomas Jefferson’s family recipe or something. Their food is really good. Especially the crab cake. I really love to eat. We could go to Carter’s Mountain to do some apple picking and have their apple cider donuts. And then hike on some beautiful trails the area has to offer.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I dedicate my shoutout to my girls. My six year old, Aylah and five month old, Arzana. They are the biggest motivations to me. As a single mom, working as well as having a full-time business, things get hard. But I keep going even on the toughest days, because of those two. I would not be where I am today, without them. I also would not be this successful if it weren’t for my loyal customers! The encouragement and support from my close family and friends never goes unnoticed.
Website: feelnubynaundi.com
Instagram: @naundiic
Twitter: @feelnubynaundi
Facebook: @feelnubynaundi
Youtube: Living With Naun
Image Credits
Marley Ellechin