In Conversation with Melissa Boloña of Beauty & the Broth

Describe Beauty & the Broth in a few words?

Ingestible, convenient, healing beauty.

What made you take the leap to start your own business?

I wanted a lifestyle overhaul.

What was your background prior to starting your own business?

Acting and modeling.

Take us back to when you first launched your business, what was your marketing strategy to get the word out and did it go as planned?

I planned on doing tastings in gyms and spas.  NO because of covid-- but it created a lot of creativity!!

We always learn the most from our mistakes, share a time with us that you made a mistake or had a challenging time in business and what you learned from it?

I initially had an off site kitchen. I was going to produce the product myself, and then I realized I was in over my head!! I pulled the plug on the kitchen the day it opened. I learned a lot from this.  Such as allocation of time and resources.  It was a huge disruption and took me back to square one. This moment built the company back up better than ever, in a scalable way.

What is the accomplishment you are the most proud of to date?

Launching Beauty & the Broth.

When hiring for your team, what is your go-to interview question? Please share any hiring tips you can share from your experience?

I love to ask "what is your greatest strength and weakness."  It's amazing how many answers you get.  The answers I LOVE is when someone shows vulnerability.  A tip I will share is to BE AUTHENTIC.

How has your business or industry been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic?

My supply chain ghosted me for a hot moment which was really scary!!!! It delayed us from launch quite a bit. I have come to realize my product really helps to keep immunity up-- therefore I am happy to be contributing to people's good health.

What's next for your business? What can we expect to see over the next few years?

A vegan flavor coming out in the next month! Retail locations, super markets. As well as beauty products!

What is the biggest lesson you have learned in 2020?

Prioritize what's important to YOU. Not anyone else. Take time out for yourself and be your own best friend.

What do you know now that you wish you knew when you were first starting your business?

Haha!! Where do I begin? Walk, don't leap. There are efficient ways to get things done. Not all shiny, pretty objects are worth their perceived value. Do your research on all ends of the spectrum whether its real estate, marketing, website etc. and lay out what is the most important to spend money on and WHY.

How have you managed to stay grounded this year?

Appreciating what I have.

Do you believe in work/life balance? What are some of your best tips?

Balance is key. You need to make sure no matter how busy you are that you are still making time for yourself or your friends. Instead of spending time on social media on your down time -- facetime a friend!!

What's something our audience would be surprised to learn about you?

I am a pretty big nerd. I love playing games. Board games, video games you name it. I also don't watch TV very much at all.

What are your top 3 tips to stay productive each day?

WORK OUT -- it's for your mind. Make a routine. Routines keep me motivated.

What does being an Entreprenista mean to you?

It means being held accountable to inspire all the women out there wanting to start their own business or follow their dreams. It means offering support or guidance when need be.