S&D Enterprise Ltd. are a recent addition to the Chamber Membership, but they are a small business with an energetic and proactive mentality.
The health & beauty retailer stock a wide range of products that are all naturally sourced and made, cruelty-free, and suitable for both adults and children.
Her products are especially chosen to be suitable for those who may be prone to skin irritations, have allergies which prevent them using certain health products, or for those who wish to use vegan products only.
CEO Sheilane Ricot has been a busy member since joining, attending SME Workshops, Member Information Sessions, and our recent Speed Networking event to both advertise and promote her business, as well as meet her peers and form new business relations.
We spoke with Sheilane about the business.
Q: Your primary job is as a phlebotomist. Was that the major motivation for you to start this health & beauty business?
A: No, my son Darius was my inspiration to start this business, as both he and I suffer from medical ailments. The S&D in the business name actually stands for Sheilane & Darius. My son was diagnosed with a condition that leaves him allergic to various foods and day-to-day products. We have to travel back and forth to the USA for a lot of the products we could use, as Cayman was lacking in its variety. Then the idea occurred to me that there must be other residents with similar issues, as well as tourists. So I started my business to offer these individuals the products they require. We are all about giving our customers the best of what the world and our own locals have to offer.
Q: What product that you currently sell would you most recommend?
A: The Obia Hair Care Natural, as it was one of the first products I sold and is suitable for both kids and adults. Obia Naturals produce PH balanced, vegan and non-toxic products, made from natural ingredients. None of the products we sell in store have been animal tested, and we are strictly cruelty free.
Q: As a small business owner, what difficulties have you had to overcome?
A: As a small business owner, I still have a lot of difficulties to overcome. The major one for me is being a single parent working full time, then running a business. With all of that I make sure my son comes first so that he doesn’t feel left out or neglected by me, so as much as I can I take a few minutes to shower him with love and attention. When all hope is lost and I am stuck with work I have great help from my family and friends.
Q: What persuaded you to join the Chamber Membership?
A: I was recommended by a co-worker Kristen to attend a workshop being held at the Chamber. It was a three day work shop focusing on starting and developing a business. The programme was very informative, and I had some great interactions with fellow attendees, and the hosts took time to listen to my opinions and gave me some useful advice. I was excited and eager to join the Chamber of Commerce Membership at the end of the workshop, and I would advise anyone who wants to start their own business, or owns a small business, to do the same.