We are pleased to spotlight JoVonna Victor in our latest Community Educator Spotlight
About JoVonna
Having to find natural alternatives for moisturizing an infant diagnosed with eczema was almost impossible and very expensive. Armed with a pound of organic Shea butter, a good mixer, and a lot of patience I created my first batch of velvety smooth body butter for my baby girl! Two years later, with the support of my husband and a little one with glowing skin; Buttercream & Things was born.
Where did you get the inspiration for your business brand?
JV: My daughter Phoenix-Rose being diagnosed with eczema when she was just a few months old inspired me. I needed to find an affordable, effective, and healthy way to moisturize her delicate skin. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find one. Fortunately, I was able to make my own. My husband being a lover of homeopathic treatments has also been a huge inspiration. This is really just a part of our family being shared.
What makes you want to teach/do your business?
JV: I want people to know what I know and pray that the “knowing” helps them in some way
For you, how does your business/brand relate to wellness?
JV: The root of what we do is all about wellness and family. There are a lot of “bath & body” startups out there. I find product knowledge is NOT priority for a lot of them. For us it is THE priority. From the butters to the reiki treatments we study how these things heal and use it on our family and friends before it ever gets a Buttercream & Things label
How do you stay healthy?
JV:Lately, staying healthy has meant a huge focus on self care. I listen to a lot of wellness podcasts (shout out to The Friendzone podcast) and have my husband balance and/or clear my energy with a Reiki treatment when I feel overwhelmed.
What do you feel is the most challenging aspect of your career?
JV: Balancing my day job in youth development, with being a wife, mother, and entrepreneur. I’m tired all of the time but passion for Buttercream & Things won’t let me stop.
When you aren’t teaching classes what do you like to do?
JV: My favorite thing is to spend time with my family. We are a small family of 3 but “Victor Family Fun Days” are usually pretty lit! I also like to read, cook, be outside as much as I can in WNY, and listen to podcasts (shout out to Another Round podcast).
What is it that inspires you to keep going as entrepreneur.
JV: My little girl being proud of me. She tells people all of the time, “My mommy makes Shea butter!” Other entrepreneurs also inspire me locally, Lomax and Ashley Campbell of Ballet Afrikana are huge supporters and inspirations. Calvin Eaton of 540WMain has been an entrepreneur that inspires me also.
What are you working on now?
JV: Candidly speaking, I’m working on learning the business of owning a business and balancing it all with my family.
What’s has been your best experience thus far in your business?JV:
JV: Another mother telling me that our butter is all she can use on her daughter’s skin.
What has been your biggest challenge as a company? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?
JV: Again balancing it all and staying motivated. Still working on it.
What advice do you have for others interested in pursuing their own business?
JV: I would tell budding entrepreneurs that it gets better and worse, and better, and worse again but you will be successful as long as you keep pushing.
Is there anything else you’d like the readers to know?
JV: I have had amazing support in this and I love everyone who has sacrificed time, money, and tears to help me reach my goals! My parents and my cousin Shonique are the greatest silent partners I could ask for!
540WMain, Inc. 