We had the good fortune of connecting with Shayla Visger and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shayla, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Only the Essentials was started because I was tired of reading labels on bath and body products and not knowing the benefits of the ingredients. There were so many unknown terms and things listed on the backs of these products. Products that were supposed to relax and refresh me were packed full of chemicals, preservatives, and unnecessary ingredients! Only the Essentials is about relaxing and making the most of the time you have set aside to care for yourself! I wanted to make products that made you feel good and also provided benefits. I created all-natural, clean, and eco-friendly products and instead of using chemical fragrance oils, I chose to use natural essential oils in my products. They provide aromatherapy while you relax! It’s my mission to make products that are eco-friendly and natural, free of chemicals, unnecessary ingredients, and provide as many benefits to you and the environment as possible!

 

What should our readers know about your business?
I started my own business out of high school, completely independently. Over the years I’ve found running a small business to be one of the most difficult things I’ve ever had to do. One of the biggest challenges I face is learning new skills and tools every day to grow my business. I’m a bath product maker, designer, social media manager, financial planner and so much more. It takes endless dedication to learn how to balance all of these things and become proficient in them. It’s my biggest challenge, but it’s one of my favorite things about running my own business. I am constantly learning new skills and forever furthering my knowledge. This has helped me become an extremely well-rounded person. I feel so proud to be able to own and run my own company completely independently at 23.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When my friends come to visit me, I like to take them for a hike because Georgia is so rich in natural beauty. Our trees are abundant here and Tallulah gorge is a beautiful hike with an amazing view. Downtown Alpharetta has so many options for dinner and drinks and it never fails to be a fun night out! And of course, I would take them to Alpharetta’s Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. I’m a participant and love the atmosphere that you get at the farmers market. It’s a great opportunity to meet all the small business owners in your community and get to know the people who sell the products you love the most!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to thank my mom. My mom has always inspired me. Throughout my life, she has taught me how to be strong and independent. I started my business journey when I was in high school as a junior. Now, 7 years later, my company continues to grow every year. She is my number one supporter and I wouldn’t be where I am without her.

Website: https://onlytheessentialsllc.etsy.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onlytheessentialsllc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/onlytheessentialsllc

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgK85Jt2Ibov2vq9VUwSJyw

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here