Deb Bower of Olive & Ash has always been a strong believer in the power of Nature.
As a practising naturopath, she felt that her one on one consultations were not reaching enough people who were facing poor skin conditions.
The natural progression of training as a Naturopath over 15 years ago brought together all of her beliefs and knowledge to create a business called ‘Olive & Ash’ the uncomplicated skincare company.
Made from the best local ingredients, Olive & Ash prides itself on the minimal use of ingredients with maximum benefits without damaging the skin or the environment. Their packaging, when possible is Australian made with no palm oil.
Deb is proud that her products have allowed her clients, especially those with dry and allergic skin to feel confident that the soaps and skincare they use is pure and supportive.
Over the past 14 years, Olive & Ash have expanded their range from the traditional soaps made from olive oil, to washes, face & body products and to their latest creation to support those in a time of need is their Moisturising Hand Sanitiser.
Olive & Ash’s Moisturising Hand Sanitiser not only meets the WHO requirements but also has the addition of essential oils and herbs that are proven to have anti-viral and anti-bacterial benefits that protect and soften hands.
Who’s your favourite entrepreneur and why?
“I really don’t have one. I am inspired by those who get in there and do it and be honest about it.
But if there was one for one reason only, is I love Richard Branson because there is always a smile in his eyes (even if not on his face) and that is how I see him, stuff happens but we get on with it and change gear and will laugh about it eventually.”
What do you enjoy most about running your own business?
“The joy that we bring people who think their skin that they had when they met us is the skin they have to have forever, and the simple things can change their lives forever.”
What three pieces of advice do you wish you’d been given when you started?
- Have a clear plan especially if there is more than one person involved as they see the same words differently.
- Don’t wait to have it perfect as it will continually change as you grow just implement and make it more than just an idea.
- I have a manufacturing and e-commerce business so it would be good to have a sound understanding of e-commerce and the platforms you need, so you know enough to get someone else to do it for you sooner rather than later :).
What advice would YOU give someone thinking about starting a business?
“Really spend the time doing your business plan and going deep with all of your wildest ideas and put them in writing. Don’t do it for anyone else but yourself (or maybe the bank :)) and by being honest with your ideas and yourself go to bed after you finish and have a good night sleep. Wake up with an excited fear, then just go for it, as you know you are making the right decision.”
What skills and knowledge areas would you recommend those starting out in business get acquainted with quickly?
“Be able to be adaptive as you never know when you have to change direction and if you take to long the opportunity will be gone.
Know enough about all areas of your business even if you don’t have the skills to do them yourself but to be able to have a discussion with someone who will. Be it Tech, Finance or Copy.”
What does your IDEAL business look like? Even if you’re not there yet, what would it look like if your business was ideal?
“My ideal business is to have a team of people around me to be part of putting my ideas on paper and implementing them.
A team that I can leave and know I have a Business not dependent on me to prosper.
Lots and lots of repeat loyal customers.”
What problem does being a Member of the HerBusiness Network solve for you and your business? And, how?
“I feel being part of HerBusiness community for a number of years now is just that, a community. I know that I am not alone and there is always someone who will respond when you are feeling a bit stuck and need a nudge, even if it is something small.
The community is like having team members that you wished you had to throw ideas around with. But most importantly, I love the friends I have made through this group and they can be based anywhere and just a Zoom chat away.”
All Her Business members receive a 10% off all orders from Olive & Ash
Learn more about Deb Bower here
