Jim Dorkins
Business Launch Boot Camp Class #19
Business: Doc Goodbeard’s
How did you get the idea for your business?
A devoted beard-wearer for years, Jim first got the idea for his balms from his son who recommended he try balms to smooth the texture and feel of his beard; frustrated by the limited products on the market, Jim decided to make his own:
“My son suggested making them for myself and making a business out of it. I worked with the State Division of Vocational Rehab, and at the end of their program, I was told about RMMFI!”
What was the state of your business before RMMFI?
“I had a business plan, and some info on how to get started, but I was still very uncertain about exactly how to make everything work. I understood a little about marketing, the financials, operations and management, but didn’t feel confident that I had enough training or guidance to really be successful.”
What is one thing you would like people to know about you and/or your business?
“I am a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, and am looking forward to contributing a portion of the proceeds to the VFW Veterans Home for Children. Part of all sales will go to help vets and their families get the help they need to get back on their feet.”
What is your favorite holiday cookie and/or treat?
“I don’t really have a favorite. I love almost all the Christmas/Holiday treats. Cookies, cakes, candies, this time of year, seems to bring out the best food and treats!!!”
Kerry Humphrey
Business Launch Boot Camp Class #14
Business: Pearl Street Lights
How did you get the idea for your business?
“I had a beautiful empty wine bottle sitting on top of my fridge for years. Since it was sentimental, I didn’t want to throw it away, but it did seem like a waste as it was just using up space. I ended up learning how to cut glass bottles and turned the bottle into a hanging lantern. I had so much fun, that I started experimenting with cutting and recycling glass bottles and turning them into containers for candles. We expanded quickly and now use eco-friendly recycled glass bottles and have many new fragrances for customers to enjoy! Every candle is still hand poured here in Colorado with sustainable and clean burning soy wax and finished with a wooden wick that crackles like a fireplace.”
What was the state of your business before RMMFI?
“I had a passion for my business, but not much else before RMMFI. I wanted to be able to run a business full time, but was still very unsure of myself and admittedly, my business was a bit of a mess. RMMFI was able to give me the knowledge, support and community that I needed to succeed! Now I am able to run my business full time and everyday I can create products that our customers love!”
What is one thing you would like people to know about you and/or your business?
“I love seeing the faces of people who sample our candles and smell a fragrance that they really like – their whole face lights up! It is so rewarding to be able to produce a product that lights up a person’s home and can create joy and fond memories.”
What if your favorite holiday cookie and/or treat?
“Peppermint Bark – and it smells just like our Winter Wonderland Candle (Yes, this is a shameless plug!)”
Rochelle Johnson
Business Launch Boot Camp #10
Business: Rochelle Johnson Studio
How did you get the idea for your business?
“While taking classes at the Art Students League of Denver I realized that I had a gift and was just as talented as my teachers. I wanted to do what they did for a living. So I opened my studio in my home.”
What was the state of your business before RMMFI?
“Before being a part of RMMFI I was just in creative mode – making painting and showing my work without any knowledge of selling the work.”
What is one thing you would like people to know about you and/or your business?
“I create urban paintings that focuses on everyday life from the Denver community around me. My business is structured for all customers and priced to sell.”
What is your favorite holiday cookie and/or treat?
“Lemon bars or fudge!”
**Stay tuned for more bios of all the Holiday Pop-Up Entrepreneurs #ShopRMMFI #WUYEO