Christelle Tait, Founder of Australian natural skin care company, botanicES.

Creative Folk, Entrepreneurs | May 23, 2018

We are on the quest to interview business owners over the age of 60.  This week we visit Brisbane Australia and chat with Christelle Tait who is founder of Australian natural skin care company botanicES. 

Can you tell me a little bit about your business and what you do?

I am the CEO and co-owner of botanicES, a natural skincare business, manufacturing skin care products from Byron Bay coffee. I believe in giving your skin a fair go and bringing to the market a well-tested product without any nasties, that actually works. I am passionate about preserving our environment and avoiding cruelty against animals. I am responsible for the day to day running of the company together with my support team and my role is mainly marketing and customer service focused. I regularly participate in various online marketing and business courses and webinars in order to update my skills on how to run a business and get the best results for my investment.

What motivates you to keep working after 60?

We started our business after 60 in order to be challenged to learn new skills and to make a contribution to our economy (rather than being fully retired) by supporting various manufacturers and providing jobs.

I love the interaction with our customers and their great feedback about how botanicES has changed their lives, as well as dealing with various stockists and their supporting staff.

What do you like most about having your own business?

The fact that it has taught me so many accounting, marketing and people skills and I do like having a challenge on a daily basis. Your own business also provides you with free time when you would like to take a break and flexible work hours.

What have been some of the struggles you have faced with running your own business?

I think my biggest problem is to get the botanicES brand name out there in a very competitive market. To convince a potential customer about the benefits of natural caffeine to the skin and how to make an informed choice about natural skincare.

Another constant struggle is to watch cash flow, as we fund all our business efforts ourselves.

What are some of the most important lessons you have learnt in life?

Never give up, when one door shuts another will open. Keep on persisting with both your family and business goals.

Find joy in every new day, take some time out to savour the joys of every day and to become quiet.

Surround yourself with the best staff you can afford, build a tribe that is as passionate about your business as you.

Sometimes it is ok to say no!

What advice would you give to the younger generation?

Enjoy the freedom of being digitally savvy (very difficult for my generation). The world is your oyster , you just need to find your niche and persevere. Do not give up easily,  you have your whole life ahead of you.

If you could jump into a time machine what era would you visit and why?

The Victorian era when women were so well kept and had so much time on their hands. Women’s virtue was very well respected and I like the romantic at heart like all the Jane Austin characters.

Anything else you would like to add?

I love the plaque (author unknown) on my patio and try to live by the words:

REMEMBER

When you go into the world to keep your eyes and ears wide open

And BE KIND

Take care of each other

TELL THE TRUTH

ALWAYS DO YOUR BEST

Listen to the little people and the big people

EXPLORE NEW PATHS AND HAVE FUN

LOVE LIKE CRAZY

Above all else and you will do wonderful things in this world!!