Meet Imani Varker

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Imani Varker. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Imani, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

Honestly, I wouldn’t say that I’ve overcome imposter syndrome. Maybe someday it won’t be an issue, but until then, I just have to keep showing up for myself and being very open to learning and growing as I go along. I still get nervous when preparing for a market. All of the what-ifs, like what if there are lots of other soap makers there? What if their soaps are prettier or smell better than mine? What if no one likes or wants to try any of my products? These thoughts make me want to just stay in bed, but the hope that my people will find me and love what I have created helps me to work through all of that. Optimism for the possibility that I could meet lots of awesome new people and make some really cool sales and personal connections helps me to move forward.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I like to say that soapmaking found me. I didn’t grow up knowing it was something I could do myself. However, I did grow up with a passion for DIY. I always had a desire to make things from scratch. That’s what’s so special to me about my soap. I developed my recipes from researching oils and their soapmaking properties and found advise from seasoned soapers far and wide. So just like when I make pancakes or brownies from the raw ingredients in my pantry and I get to watch people enjoy eating what I’ve created, the same goes for my soap. I’m filled with so much joy when someone has used my products, and they come back for more telling me how much they loved it and how good it makes them feel.

Over the past several months, I’ve also developed solid shampoos, conditioners and lotion/body butter bars as well. Getting into soapmaking has given me the ability and confidence to create products for myself that I couldn’t find available to purchase, at least not the way I wanted them. Now I’ve found myself not only expanding my business but creating an eco-friendly mission for it as well. I’m really excited about creating awesome body care products and helping people cut back on plastic use as well!

I’m also really fortunate that my business has given me the ability to give back as well. Earlier this year, I was able to donate almost 100 pieces of soap in exfoliating soap bags to a local organization called Cloud Covered Streets. They provide shower and grooming services to people experiencing homelessness. I made them a special batch with very specific ingredients to help vulnerable individuals in that situation. They were able to give the soap away to so many grateful people. I really look forward to being able to do that again.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

I was really fortunate to find local resources for hands-on learning. I would say that if anyone is a visual learner like me, make the investment in yourself to be willing to take a long drive and spend the necessary money to get in front of a professional who will give you the confidence you need to take the next step.

Also, even when you’re just starting out, don’t rely too heavily on the internet for all your education. Especially these days, you need to make sure there is a seasoned veteran of your craft behind the websites or even books. Go ahead and be picky about where you get your information.

Lastly, one of the most important, and hard, lessons I’ve learned is that even when you get information from a trusted, knowledgeable source, you still need to be willing to question it. Even when someone provides a lot of good information because they’ve been at it for a long time, maybe they’re a little outdated. Or maybe their values don’t exactly align with your own. Just be willing to pivot, even if it’s scary.

All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?

I’m pretty sure my biggest challenge is the same as just about every other small business owner right now. Times are tough all around. Not as many people are able to splurge on things that would be considered a luxury item. When the bills are piling up, stocking up on the “good soap” isn’t really a priority. So I’m doing what I can to get out to different markets all across the county, and sometimes beyond. I have a nice following and I keep meeting new people all the time who are able to give healthier, handmade products a try. Even if they are a bit pricier than what you can get at the grocery store. There’s definitely good reason for the price difference. Handmade soap is so much kinder to your skin!

For the time being, I try to focus on partnering with market organizers who work hard to get the word out in the community. The more we can all spread the word, the better it is for everyone!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://grandeurlathers.com
• Instagram: grandeur_lathers https://www.instagram.com/grandeur_lathers/
• Facebook: Grandeur Lathers https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087978560549
• Linkedin: Grandeur Lathers https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087978560549