Adriana Christie was working as a licensed massage therapist. Her partner Paul returned from Slovakia and introduced her to the benefits of polyphenols and natural skincare products made from grapes. After trying the products out herself, Adriana and Paul decided to develop their own beauty brand: Zi Dobre.
Can you tell us a bit more about yourself and why you created Zi Dobre?
I was born in Colombia and have been working in the US as a licensed massage therapist for over 20 years. Through my work I began to gain a deep understanding of my client’s needs (physically & mentally) When my partner Paul returned from Slovakia, he introduced me to the benefits of polyphenols and natural skincare products made from grapes. After trying the products I noticed a number of benefits. At this point, Paul and I decided to develop our brand based on the belief our products were going to have a positive impact on others.
What are the causes of hyperpigmentation?
There are a number of factors including environmental conditions (main exposure to the sun), genetics, diet, stress, alcohol, and physical exercise which contribute to the overall appearance of the skin. I had an extreme case caused by an imbalance in my hormones. I had been to several dermatologists, estheticians, and finally my gynecologist, with no solution. The condition persisted for over 5 years. After developing the Vinotherapy Treatment and including it into my ritual, I began to see positive results. After 6 months, I felt that my skin had been restored which really had a profound impact on the way I looked and felt.
How did launching Zi Dobre help you transform your confidence?
Prior to being involved with Zi Dobre I felt really stuck, working at a job that was unfulfilling. Imagine a seed with limitless potential, I just needed a bit of water which came in the form of this opportunity. I found my ability to network, develop a marketing strategy, product development, trademark & patent application just to name a few, gave me this renewed sense of self-confidence I had never experienced before. Having a partner that believes in you, and provides support is key as well.
What is some advice you have for other minority beauty entrepreneurs?
#1 Be willing to step out of your comfort zone. English is my second language, this prevented me from networking and expressing myself through written communication. You have to just stick your nose out and try. Every time you try the benchmark is set a bit higher.
#2 Team up with other minority business owners and network. My fellow Colombianas and Latinas were the foundation to developing my approach. Once my pitch was polished, I felt ready to take on the world.
#3 Engagement is key. Do not base your success on likes or comments. My partner and I are working every day to develop profound relationships with vendors, clients, the press, doctors, spa owners, etc. The DM on Instagram is a great tool, and researching your target market, and emailing is very effective.
#4 Do not get discouraged. In the beginning, we could not give our products away, and people would not reply to our attempts to connect. As we improved our message and our approach, we began to see positive changes. You have to be determined and constantly work on improving your brand in every sense of the word.
What does it mean to be a #beautyboss?
#1 You must have a keen eye for design, providing high-quality products, and the ability to maintain high brand standards.
#2 Having a clear vision with long-term goals is mandatory. Nothing worth having comes fast and easy. You must have mental strength and be very prudent with your resources to stay in the game for the long run.
#3. Self-performance is the key to survival. Learn graphic design and marketing have proven to be critical. SO MANY people offer services which with a little research you can learn to handle yourself, and maintain your brand values. This is especially true with copyright.
#4 You have to believe in yourself. Set goals that are over the moon and believe in the impossible. Do not let other people’s opinions dictate your path or possibilities.
#5 Be generous with your gifts. Your investment in others will determine your success in this life, personally and professionally.
