MEET Mi Esencia by So
FOUNDED BY
THE INTERVIEW
Written by Boston Women’s Market
Boston Women’s Market: Can you tell us a bit about what led you to begin your journey with Mi Esencia by So? Was there an aha! Moment?
Sofia: Ever since I was a little girl I've always gravitated towards perfumes and colognes. I used to sneak into my parents’ bedroom just to smell their fragrances. My dad tells me the story of how I would never get lost in the mall, they knew exactly where to find me. As young as 5 years old, I was in Macys sitting on the tall white chair with the sales person smelling all kinds of perfumes. It was and still is one of my favorite things to do. A few summers ago, I started to create my own blends of oils to keep my skin hydrated and healthy while tanning. Of course, I had to spay some perfume to make the blends of oils smell good. My friends and family start to wear the blend I created and they loved it. We came up with the idea of possibly selling it. I spent the entire summer of 2022 doing my research on how to execute the idea I had in mind. I spent most of my checks on all the materials needed to make the perfect perfume body oil. This was a project that took up most of my time, but I didn't mind it because I was doing something that I loved. My whole family got involved and I felt beyond supported. My cousin Laudis who was visiting from Dominican Republic helped me pick out my brand name 'Mi Esencia By So'. My cousin Yenny, who is a graphic designer all the way in the Dominican Republic, created my logo and labels. As I started making all the different kinds of perfume body oils I would have my friends and family try it out and they would give me their honest opinion. Next thing I know we came up with 8 official perfume body oils to launch in Nov 2022.
BWM: For many women starting out in the entrepreneurial world, there can be a lot of self-doubt. Do you have any personal stories about how you conquered self-doubt? What guidance would you give to others?
Sofia: I never thought I would become a business owner. I felt like there was just too much responsibility and it overwhelmed me every time I thought about it, which would then lead me to being stuck with a head full of ideas and never pursing them. Until I finally took that leap of faith. I acknowledged that my self-doubt is part of the process, and that it won’t stop me. Know that you’re more than capable of anything you set your mind to. It can be scary but that’s only because you believe in the magnitude of what you’re undertaking. It’s important to surround yourself with a supportive network. Those who you know you can depend on and who believe in your vision. Set small yet achievable goals and celebrate them when you meet them. The path to success is not a straight line. You will always have to adapt and pivot at any given moment. Just have fun with it, don’t always take it too seriously. Persevere through the self-doubt!
You will always have to adapt and pivot at any given moment. Just have fun with it, don’t always take it too seriously. Persevere through the self-doubt!
BWM: A mentor can play an integral role in someone’s career progression and personal growth. Did you have a mentor that influenced where you are today?
Sofia: I have amazing mentors in my life - God, my family, and my friends. As I get older, I realize how important it is to have your village. My people have helped shape my values, work ethic and perspective on navigating challenges. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am at today. They’re the ones that push me pass my limit. They see the bigger picture and always want the best for me. I am forever grateful for them.
BWM: Many women begin their small business journey as a way to seek fulfillment they may not be getting in their 9-5 job. Others aren't sure where to begin and need help "digging deeper" to find what it is that fills their cup. What are some steps someone can take today to begin that journey of discovery?
Sofia: Look for something that you are passionate about and put the work into it. I am currently an assistant dean of students at an elementary/middle school, and I own my business - Mi Esencia By So. These are two things that I genuinely love. I’ve always had a passion for working with students and a love for perfumes. I know that God has put me in the position to work with kids for a reason. Although it can be challenging sometimes, it’s worth it. Whatever it is that you decide to take on will come with some challenges. That’s part of life. What you do in those moments will determine your growth. When I first started my business, I spent a lot of money. I did my research and figured out how to invest rather than spend (there’s a difference). Make sure that you choose something you love and don’t give up on it.
BWM: Do you have a favorite moment so far with Mi Esencia by So? Where you really felt like you were on the right path?
Sofia: Honestly, every time I see a client’s reaction when they smell the first body oil they pick up and then they smell the next one. It’s like they just smelled the best fragrance ever! Their faces light up more and more each time. I love helping people who don’t know their scent yet, or those who have the same scent for 10+ years and find a new one from Mi Esencia. And of course, those who come back for more! Those are my favorite moments.
BWM: How have you continued to manage the growth of your business while also finding time and ways to invest in yourself?
Sofia: This is a great question. Last year was my first-year vending. I made sure to book up almost every weekend. I wanted to get out to different places in New England to see what the market was like. But I learned that I needed balance. Although, I love what I do, I also need time to reset. Self-care days are essential. Whether it’s just resting, getting my nails done, or snuggling up with my dog Renzo, I do something that’ll make me happy. I also go to the gym after work. I put my headphones on, start my “Workout Vibez” playlist and release some stress. The best part after a long work out is the sauna and hot tub after! It feels just like a spa day☺
BWM: What is your go-to Podcast or book of the moment?
Sofia: I start my mornings by putting on YouTube and while I get ready, I listen to sermons from Steven Furtick, TD Jakes, or Sarah Jakes Roberts. I believe it’s important to start the day off with the right mindset. Their sermons help me with sense of peace and purpose which influence my thoughts, actions, and interactions throughout the day. It’s what keeps me grounded.
BWM: Anything else you’d like to share?
Sofia: You never lose, you always learn!
More information can be found at https://www.miesenciabyso.com/.
PRODUCTS WE LOVE
Golden Aura Body Oil
Mi Esencia by So creates hydrating perfume body oil that melt right into your skin!