The Caramel Girl Collection was founded in January of 2015 by Tamica Lightfoot. In 2014, before relocating to Atlanta, Tamica began making hand whipped Shea butters as a hobby and to help with her eczema. After numerous friends and family inquired about her products, she began selling them from home. In 2015, Tamica began to experiment and add to her product line. Now, The Caramel Girl Collection offers a vast array of body butters, body soap bars, body scrubs, bath bombs, beard care, soy candles and hair formula. All products are handmade and infused with Shea butter along with other natural oils. Tamica is passionate about helping others love the skin that they are in and will continue to grow her line of products. Meet this Caramel Girl below.
Fancy: How would you describe your swagher? What makes Tamica, Tamica?
Tamica: Sophisticated, sassy, independent, ambitious and stubborn are all words that I would say describe my swagher! I have always been strong-willed and strong-minded. As a business owner you have to do what sets you apart from the competition and live with no fear. I have always lived my life in this way, and I have always been free spirited. From a very young age, those around me learned that Tamica is going to follow her own mind and that has taken me to the next level in my career and in life. I live 100% for me and no one else!!
Fancy: So what inspired The Caramel Girl Collection?
Tamica: I started making shea as a hobby just for my own skin. I have always suffered from eczema, and I reached a point in my life where perfumed lotions made my condition worse. I began to researching various butters and came across pure shea butter. After experimenting with various oils I found the perfect combo for my whipped shea. Over time family and friends began to inquire on what I was using, and I began to make products for them. Upon relocating to Atlanta, several friends and regular customers asked how they would still be able to get my products…from that The Caramel Girl Collection was born! It was pure fate. From that I have developed body soaps, body scrubs, beard care, and bath bombs.
Fancy: As a creator, I know I can produce something and then worry that it meets the expectations of me and my customers. Initially, when your family and friends began to want products, did you ever experience that fear and how did you overcome it?
Tamica: Honestly, fear is a natural human occurrence but also a choice. When putting out a new product I have no fear. Fear holds you back! I do my due diligence when putting out a new product. I have a trusted group of testers that are honest with me and I trust their feedback. Also, as a business owner I try my best to please all consumers, but I am also a realist. Having balance and finding my niche’ consumer has kept my business thriving and growing. I believe that every business owner needs a TRUSTED panel to keep them on top of current trends and offer feedback on product growth.
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Fancy: Do you make all the products yourself or do you have a team?
Tamica: All products are handmade, packaged and labeled by me. It is a daunting task at times, but I am proud each time I ship a package. So, just know when you order from CGC the owner made your product and personally shipped it to you!!
Fancy: What are the benefits of Shea butter?
Tamica: Shea butter is highly absorbent and can be used in several ways. Natural shea butter is a great protectant for your skin, reduces inflammation, soothes out wrinkles on your skin and nourishes your hair! Shea butter is naturally full of vitamins A, E, and F which offer UV protection as well. The butter is great raw or mixed with other carrier oils.
Fancy: Did you specifically move to Atlanta to further your business? If so, what has that been like?
Tamica: I moved to Atlanta as a personal leap of faith. I wanted to experience a new city and meet new people. Atlanta has been great for networking with like-minded business owners and for the growth of my business. I am very happy that I chose Atlanta as my new home. I truly believe that there is opportunity here for all if you apply yourself and have drive.
Fancy: You partnered with a cigar company for your last event. How did that collaboration come about?
Tamica: I am always looking for new ways to set myself apart from others. After my November pop up shop, I wanted to offer something new and fresh to Atlanta. I found that no one really offered a sip, shop, and cigar experience when doing pop up events. I wanted the cigar element to draw in men. Let’s face it….most pop ups are geared towards women. With the help of a close friend, I was able to connect with a cigar vendor who hand rolled cigars. This was the perfect element to add to my spring event! I am excited to say that after its success this will be an annual event for my business.
Fancy: What’s one of the most important things you’ve learned in business?
Tamica: You need others to survive. No one can build a business alone. Although I function as a one-woman show, I still would not be where I am without the help of others. I have been in business for three years and I have experienced great growth. Looking back it is due to the tremendous support that I receive from my close circle, fearlessness, and networking. Set high standards for your business and demand that those who want to work with you live up to them. Be unique and persistent.
Fancy: So do you desire to one day be in major retailers or what is your end game?
Tamica: End game- Put all other bath and body retailers on notice and offer bath/body products on a global scale. I not only want to offer my products to the masses by opening up stores in shopping malls/shopping centers, but I would like to have brick and mortar store fronts as well. I view my company as a brand and a lifestyle, and I intend to become a household name.
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Fancy: Do you have any upcoming events or projects that you care to share?
Tamica: November 10th, 2018 Sip, Shop and Cigars Winer Edition
This event will be a Party/Pop Up where the guest will dress in their best 1920’s attire, enjoy food, drinks, shopping, dancing and Cigars. General admission and VIP tickets go on sale July 2018.
Follow and connect with Tamica below:
“you are naturally beautiful”
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Twitter: @thecaramelgirlÂ
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