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

Hi Vanissa, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Entrepreneurship has been of utmost value to me since I was a little kid. There is no better joy than encountering a problem and being able to fix it! I’ve never been able to find soaps that are zero waste, moisturizing, and made without artificial fragrances. Since starting Nissa Crafts, I can handmake all-natural soaps that are eco-friendly, made with high-quality oils and butter, and scented with skin-safe essential oils.

What should our readers know about your business?
Nissa Crafts is about all things natural, eco-friendly, and good for the skin. Every product is carefully researched, handmade, and scented with essential oils only! Not many people know that many skin allergies can be triggered by artificial fragrances, and unfortunately, most of our hygienic products only use these for scent. The journey to Nissa Crafts has not been easy, but it is the most rewarding from hearing all the positive feedback from customers who say the soaps have helped their sensitive skin. Knowing I’m able to positively impact even one person means the world to me. I’m also most proud of not only being a first-generation American but a first-generation college graduate and business owner! I want future entrepreneurs to know that if you truly want to start a business, just do it! Leave the fear behind because you never know what could truly become of your dreams if you don’t try. I never thought I could grow a business organically but with enough grit and determination, you might just be surprised by what you can accomplish.

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.
Houston is incredible because of its diversity. Whenever friends come down to visit, I love to surprise them with all the greenery we have – Buffalo Bayou Park, Memorial Park, or Hermann Park. Also, we have the best museums and popups we could explore during the week, especially on Thursdays when it’s free! Everyone would agree that Houston has the best food options. My favorite thing to do when I have time is exploring new restaurants. Currently, I’m obsessed with Korean BBQ so I’d definitely take my best friend to that when they’re in town for amazing food and drinks!

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?
I’d love to dedicate this shoutout to everyone who has supported my small business by purchasing my handmade soaps. I honestly couldn’t have made it this far if it wasn’t for everyone rooting me on to continue with my craft. I’d also love to dedicate this shoutout to my best friends who are always willing to be my product testers and push me to expand the business.

Website: nissacrafts.com

Instagram: @nissacrafts

Facebook: Nissa Crafts LLC

Image Credits
@ricardos_portraits @lancastelan

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