From crafting homemade candles and scrubs for loved ones to building a thriving business, Suvwe Ene’s journey with 29Thirty Inc. is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Driven by a love for creating and a desire to share little luxuries with others, Suvwe turned a cherished hobby into a flourishing enterprise. Despite challenges like funding and balancing family life, she found innovative ways to bring her vision to life. In this interview, Suvwe shares the pivotal moments, lessons learned, and strategies that have shaped her path, offering inspiration and valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and creatives.
Can you share a bit about your personal background and journey that led you to start 29Thirty Inc?
My journey to 29Thirty began with a love of creating things and sharing them with loved ones. I started making candles and scrubs for friends and family events, and I found immense joy in the process. Witnessing their delight in my creations sparked something in me. I realized how much I loved the art of fragrance, the creativity in customization, and the way these little luxuries could bring a touch of joy to people’s lives. That’s when I decided to turn this hobby into something more, and 29Thirty was born.
What specific challenges did you face when starting your business, and how did you overcome them?
Starting a business always has its challenges, and mine were no exception. Funding was a major stressor, especially as I wanted to invest in quality ingredients and beautiful packaging. Being a new mom and early in my marriage added another layer – I wanted to be present for my family while also pursuing this passion.
To overcome these obstacles, I got creative. I started small, focusing on perfecting a few core products. I researched ways to source materials cost-effectively and learned to market my brand on social media. Most importantly, I carved out pockets of time during naps or after my little one was asleep to work on 29thirty. It wasn’t easy, but my determination and the support of my loved ones helped me push through.
Can you recall a moment when you felt particularly inspired or motivated on your entrepreneurial journey? What was it, and how did it impact your work?
Witnessing layoffs in my corporate job was a stark reminder that, even with hard work, job security isn’t always guaranteed. It was a pivotal moment that pushed me to take my future into my own hands. I realized I didn’t want to rely solely on someone else for my livelihood, especially with a growing family.
That experience ignited a fire in me. It fueled my determination to build something that was truly mine. Suddenly, those late nights working on 29thirty felt less like a sacrifice and more like an investment in my own potential. It wasn’t easy, but that sense of urgency propelled me forward, shaping my entrepreneurial journey.
What are some valuable lessons you’ve learned along the way that have helped shape your approach to business and creativity?
My journey has taught me the importance of patience, trusting my own instincts, and focusing on self-improvement rather than comparison. These lessons keep me grounded, allowing me to embrace creativity and build a business that’s authentically mine.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs or creatives who are just starting on their own journey?
Remember, success isn’t overnight. Be patient, embrace the learning process, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
How do you stay innovative and continue to evolve in an ever-changing market? What strategies do you use to keep your ideas fresh and exciting?
To stay innovative, I prioritize continuous learning, actively monitor trends on social media, and seek inspiration from other creatives through classes and collaborations. This approach keeps my ideas fresh and helps me adapt to the market.
Can you share a memorable experience or success story related to 29Thirty Inc that stands out to you?
Securing my first corporate client was a huge milestone! It validated that 29thirty could offer something unique and valuable beyond individual customers. Leading a candle-making workshop for their team was incredible. Teaching a new skill, sharing my passion for fragrance, and seeing their excitement over their creations was truly rewarding. That experience fueled my confidence and showed me the potential for growth in the corporate event space.
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