Entrepreneurship Chats with Cara Canady

“The inspiration was the freedom to do whatever and have fun with it.”

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               After posting on a facebook group specific for business owners to network, Cara reached out being interested and seeing her unique touch and style really inspired me. Her professionalism mixed with her individual personality really intrigued me. I couldn’t pass up on this opportunity at all. 

You’ll find this spotlight interview to be informative, sweet and straight to the point. Entrepreneurship can have its ups and downs but Cara shares a lot of examples and advice for those that may feel a bit stuck in their own journey. I don’t want to say too much here but this interview is with an individual I’ve never connected with until this segment was born. 

Tell us about yourself: what kind of person are you? 

Hello beautiful people! My name is Cara and I am a lover of all things enjoyable. To name a few of those things are laughing with loved ones, eating delicious food, traveling and expressing myself through makeup. If I could describe myself in three words they would be: smart, funny and unpredictable. 

Tell me about your business & overall entrepreneurship journey.  

ARAC untamed, an independent beauty brand located in Birmingham, Alabama, was launched in December 2020. My journey has been a short one but I have made much progress during this time. Within the first year ARAC shipped to 34 out of the 50 US states. Our main product line is premium lashes, moisturizing lip glosses and all-day wear matte lipsticks.

Key driving force for you to become an entrepreneur?

I was born to be one. I have always been a creative spirit. For years I would help others with creative advertising and marketing strategies. In the beginning of the pandemic, a cousin started a business and from one conversation I was able to provide her with a blueprint of different creative techniques and ideas to just think about. 

During the conversation I said “whenever I find something I’m interested in, I will start a business”. It didn’t really work out like that, I jumped into my business out of the blue. I literally woke up, researched starting a lash brand and immediately started ordering products to sample.

 Where did the idea of business come from?

Out of the blue. I literally woke up and thought to myself, “we are about to sell some lashes”. Went on YouTube just to see what others have done/have to say and thought this sounds interesting. Decided to start an independent beauty brand that day. My main product is lashes but I know I also wanted to offer lip gloss and lipsticks too.

What or how did the idea come about for your biz, what inspired it ? 

The inspiration was the freedom to do whatever and have fun with it. For example, did you know that there are thousands of styles of lashes? What can seem as a simple product can indeed be very complex. But the freedom to choose my product line, logo, brand colors, etc. It’s really exciting to have a vision and then see it come to life.

How did you come up with a name for it? Did it take long to come up with the name?

I wanted my brand to reflect who I am; a strong, intellectual, independent person. So going along with that concept, I came up with ARAC (my name spelled backwards) and untamed, because I see myself as such.

How do you handle investors and funding issues ?

I was lucky to have spare funds and I didn’t want investors because I wanted to be in control of my first business. But if funding is an issue, I suggest maybe start small and increase inventory with your profits. Some products are so affordable to start selling. Just do your research.

Typical working day look like?

Because I am still a newbie, a typical day consists of responding and finding lead magnets. Beginning in January 2022, I also became an US lash vendor. I wholesale lashes to other lash brands and makeup artists. So I am always trying to increase clientele for that service and also create some content for the brand. For an entrepreneur, we know any and everything can be content.

Have you ever ‘given up’ on one of your ideas for a product or marketing strategy?

No, I don’t think I’ve ever given up but I might decide to delay a launch of a product for a better fitting time. For example, waiting to launch what you consider to be a great offer for the holiday season.

Do you follow specific self control to keep you walking when things are not going as planned?

Yes. Consistency is key! Even when times are slow, show up for your business and customers. It’s okay to take a break. Include automation in your business, which allows you to take a break and still schedule posts for your audience.

I want to emphasize that you stated “show up for your business and customers.” because it’s not just about the business, it really is about the customers as well. Those customers that believe in you, believe in your craft and your overall business. They matter too and I really adore that you responded that way to this question. 

If you had the choice, what would you name a book that is written about you? 

How To Enjoy Life: One Second At A Time

What sacrifices have you had to make to be successful?

I don’t think I really had to sacrifice anything but time. Putting time into the business, engaging with customers, participating in tons of pop up events, etc.

How do you think entrepreneurship has made you into a better person?

Even though I can be considered an outgoing person, being an entrepreneur has gotten me out of my comfort zone. When it comes to business, you can’t be afraid to engage. So now I am willing to talk to anyone. Of course. I think we all start off being hesitant to approach potential clients but the more comfortable you are with your products and business; you should start creating opportunities for yourself instead of missing them.

They do say that it’s a good thing to be scared because you’re one step closer to growth and getting out that comfort zone really is where growth occurs. 

What is your greatest fear? Manage it how?

I don’t have any fear when it comes to business. There are millions of entrepreneurs and if they can do it, so can I. The end.

Toughest moment to have experienced in business and how you exceeded to move forward 

My entrepreneurial journey has been an easy one. I’m great at brainstorming and networking. If it’s something I need, I either learn how to do it or find people who can. Sometimes we may stress about simple situations. Find a team or community that can help you conquer your fear or issues you may be experiencing.

When you’re stuck or unmotivated what do you do to get re-inspired?

Travel! Travel will always be my #1 love, whenever I need a break from working I will travel, enjoy life and come back refreshed. If you can’t travel, do simple things: take a walk, read a book, or watch a movie. There are so many simple ways to unwind.

What is your greatest entrepreneurship achievement to be proud of?

Having people tell me they love my products. 

Locally, I participate in tons of vending events and I get to meet tons of people. Having past customers tell me how they love my products is always a great feeling. Same thing as online, having people share with friends and family about the customer service and quality products from ARAC is what keeps me going.

What would you say are your Weaknesses?

I want to do everything. I have to learn to check boxes BEFORE moving on to the next task. I’m sure every entrepreneur can relate to being up all night with tons of ideas. Write them down and complete them one at a time. 

GIRL, I completely understand this statement. I feel as though a lot of entrepreneurs try to follow their heart or passions and truly want to make every idea come to life. You’re spot on by saying every entrepreneur can relate, because

 yes I have an entire notebook myself! 

What’s your opinion on the following topic: entrepreneurs are born or raised to be successful. 

There’s nothing wrong with that statement; however, I believe anyone can be an entrepreneur. You can learn just about anything on social media, etc. I think successful leaders know what to do and if they don’t they know the right people to help complete the task.

I really like this take. “If they don’t, they know the right people to help complete the task.” which is very true. Networking has been important for most Entrepreneurs because of how it opens up doors to getting other tasks done and creating collaboration or heck, a whole team!

How do you define success? Do you believe there is a formula for becoming successful?

I don’t think there is a formula. You might get lucky with social media or you might win with being consistent. Success is what you make it. Celebrate small wins. You just received 100 followers, that’s success. You just made 10 sales, that’s success.

What’s your advice to those aspiring business owners reading this?

JUST DO IT! Research as much as you can and learn as much as you can about your target audience, products, and competitors. But in the end you just have to go for it! 

Thank you for doing this inside scoop and behind the scenes on your journey. The last questions I have for you are, what are you currently working on and hoping to achieve from now and the next 5 years?

It’s the holiday season! My goal is to do more than I did last year. 

I’m not good at planning that far ahead. I can’t even plan a vacation more than 6 months out (lol). However, if I keep going, the sky’s the limit.

Short, simple and sweet but packed with energy and uniqueness to her own style. I hope that you really do keep going and reach for the stars Cara. Thank you again for taking the time out to provide us inside scoop with your journey and advice for those considering an entrepreneurship journey. 

You can follow Cara and ARAC Untamed on Instagram and shop directly here. All readers with Brianna Anjelique can utilize ARACFRAN promo code at check out for money off on your first order.