When did you first establish your cosmetics brand, Emily Alexandra Cosmetics?

It was at the end of 2018 – but I had the idea for years. It’s amazing how some things take years to come to fruition.

Did you ever get sleep building your brand up?

There have been times that I’ve been less motivated. However, that’s when I reach out the most to new people, network with new events, and get my juices flowing even more with new ideas and opportunities. Instagram is a great tool for networking in real time all over the world.

What advice do you have for someone just starting their entrepreneur career?

Create a plan, come up with multiple ideas, and see how you can execute all of them in a timely manner. Make sure you have funds and people to help back you. Your lifeline and inner support is the most important.

How did you get into your niche?

I feel I’ve always been a Mermaid ever since I was a little child. It wasn’t until my 20’s when I became a professional mermaid and decided to create my own cosmetic brand, Emily Alexandra Cosmetics, that has all natural, vegan, cruelty-free, water-resistant, sweat-resistant, ocean-friendly, with coral reef safe SPF in all of the products.

I also Founded my nonprofit and named it supportingwater.org where I find and raise moneys to bring drinking water and much more to emerging nations. A portion of every purchase from Emily Alexandra Cosmetics goes directly back into supportingwater.org

Was it hard to start your business?

It’s extremely hard. Long hours, but well worth it. I love to have something to call mine.

What were some of the trials you went through when you first started?

I went to fast too big too quick. I had to scale back, start all over, then re-brand. That was a very big financial hurt. Moral of the story… as my mom always would say – take your time so you don’t have to do it twice (why didn’t I listen to her?!).

What’s your goal for the next 10 years in business?

I would like to sell the business in 10 years, be in numerous countries including Dubai and other luxurious locations, doing huge events and sponsoring the Olympics as the official makeup sponsor, and much, much, more!  

Did your friends support your business when you launched it? If not, why do you think not?

A lot of them were extremely jealous, and now they’re looking at me asking for support. A lot of them were also extremely supportive too though.  I guess you’ll always get haters. Especially when you’re doing something right.

What’s something you haven’t done in your career yet that you always wanted to accomplish?

 I would love to do a world tour of mermaid gigs all over the world and collaborate with other famous international mermaids like the Singapore mermaid.