We had the good fortune of connecting with Vanessa Woods-White and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Vanessa, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
In a phrase; continuous improvement. We all know the saying “success is never final.” And this could not be more true when growing a brand. I know that sounded so cliché, but it is the utter truth. Remaining relevant in this industry is critical because there are many options and we continuously work to set ourselves a part. With innovation and true connections with our clients, we have been able to grow and evolve. We do this by listening to our clients, staying abreast of trends and truly doing our best to anticipate their needs. I often take a step back and ask, “What’s next?” or “How can we make this better?” There have been a couple times that I took some risks and shocked our customers (in a good way)! Changing our packaging, marketing strategies, and casting our net out further are some of the ways we have done it. But again, it came from a place of continuous improvement. It’s going to always be about that.

What should our readers know about your business?
I created Divine Perfection Body Care initially for all of the busy moms (including myself) that didn’t have time to take time for themselves to relax and rejuvenate. I started over 10 years ago with handmade candles and soaps and selling them out of the trunk of my car in Los Angeles. Over the years, we have evolved into a self care lifestyle brand for women and men. We’ve even expanded to merchandise that enhances your overall self care experience, like journals and apparel. I believe that’s really what sets us a part. We’ve created a brand that you can truly embrace and enjoy! But it doesn’t come without saying that the road has been one of dedication and innovation. We went from selling products out of the trunk of my car over 10 years ago, to being able to ship nationwide and even be featured in some small boutique style businesses along the way. Because we handcraft our products in small batches, we are able to truly focus on quality and delivering a great product. Some of the lessons that I’ve learned on this journey is that YOU must believe in what you are doing. Entrepreneurship is not an easy rode to take, but it is so gratifying! You learn so much about yourself on a journey like this and it’s almost like you wake up one day and say “Wow! I’m really doing this and people are loving what I’m doing!” One of the things that I get so excited about is when I can speak with groups of people at events about the importance of self care and that it truly goes beyond a bubble bath. We arm our customers with self care tips and ideas as well to enhance their lives. Because at the end of the day, it’s about taking care of the entire being: mind, body and soul.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Well, first let me say that my best friend loves all things adventurous, fun, memorable and must have awesome photo opportunities! Because of this I would definitely take her to the Deep Ellum area to see amazing rooftop views! STIRR is a fun place that offers great food and fun cocktails. For more of nightlife experience we would head down to Irving to visit the Toyota Music Factory for outdoor music and cool eateries. Because we both love the beach and outdoor festivals, the Little Elm beach offers great concerts during the summer to hang out and relax. And of course we would need to go to the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve in Plano to get in at least one hike during the week. There are definitely great photo ops there! You definitely can’t come to Texas and not have great bar-b-que, so we would head over to Hutchins BBQ and Grill in McKinney. The brisket is a must have! It’s so hard to narrow down only a few places because everything here is so great! There are so many hidden gems in the North Dallas area that it’s hard to name them all! Just know that we are the type that will hop in the car and go wherever the navigation takes us!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Wow! Where do I start? Well, my parents definitely set the foundation and demonstrated what hard work looks like. I saw what it meant to work for what you want. I definitely have to give a shout out to my husband! He’s been my biggest cheerleader, confidante, the one that stays up late nights with me to label products and more! He’s truly the CFO (Chief Fun Officer)! No, but seriously he is an awesome support in so many ways that I can’t even list! And my daughter was the inspiration behind the products from the very beginning. If you know the background of our story, you know it’s because of motherhood that this idea was even birthed! Although she is now an adult, she is my sounding board on many of the marketing launches that take place. And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention all of my clients and friends from California!! That’s where it all began and so many of them have been supporting me since day one! Of course, there are many people that send me messages of encouragement and prayers that I never even knew followed what I was doing. It always amazes me when I get those. I definitely don’t want to miss anyone, but I truly appreciate ALL of the support I receive. Sometimes it’s almost unbelievable where the support and encouragement comes from! And last, but DEFINITELY not least, I have to shout out my Lord and Savior. Whew! I am nothing without Him!

Website: www.divineperfectionbodycare.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/divineperfectionbodycare
Twitter: www.twitter.com/DivinePerfecti3
Facebook: www.facebook.com/divineperfectionbodycare
Youtube: Divine Perfection Body Care