Meet Jasara (Joi) Ponton | Natural Skincare Specialist and Baker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jasara (Joi) Ponton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jasara (Joi), any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
You have to trust your information and intuition regarding your business. Do a deep dive and really assess if there are some areas regarding your business you need to shed some light on and put more attention to.

For example, are you marketing your business enough? Are you getting your business into new and different spaces and places where new fresh eyes can take a look at your business and what you’re providing?

Also take note if you’re wearing too many hats regarding your business, Some of the responsibility that you may carry, You may honestly may need to find a source to help your business along, Think about the innovative push to move your business forward. New ideas, products or services.

Lastly, you have to pay attention to seasonal changes regarding your business. Are you wholeheartedly, providing everything your business needs for it to thrive and grow into longevity?

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I truly feel like what set me apart in this specific field of skincare and product making is the fact that I have never come across other skin care entrepreneurs who were disabled or blind. With that being taken into account, it has been and still is occasionally challenging for me in regard to timing and getting all things I need when I need them to move forward with seasonal changes and new products I want to provide. However, I do my best to not get discouraged and keep the love and passion I have for skin care development as a disabled entrepreneur in the field. Abundant things having to be visual has been a huge learning curve for me in regards to relying on those I love and trust, giving me feedback and taking the feedback into account regarding my business.

I know for sure, being not only a disabled entrepreneur, being a woman, being, specifically, an African-American woman in this space sets me apart from a number of other creators and formulators. I have created my brand, my business, my baby with specific ingredients that I absolutely love! I have developed products that my customers can be proud of putting on their body that are chemical, paraben and sulfate free. Natural products that won’t do them any harm gives me the greatest sense of satisfaction and appreciation for what I do.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
One week in Philly with me OK let’s see.

Stratus is a great restaurant for rooftop dining. It’s a beautiful view of the city and skyline. Food is amazing. Some relaxation girl time is a must at Zen Spa Studios and for some gorgeous nails we would have to go to House Of Bling Nail Boutique. Now for a great time with wine tasting, The Black Oak Tasting room is a must! The action, phenomenal food and great music. South St is over the top! The music is always a great vibe and the food will haunt your dreams lol. Food at The Melting Pot is defined although you may have to bring more than two people. There’s always room for leftovers. All the Way Live is another great restaurant for vegan and vegetarian options. For a fun weekend vibe filled with dancing the River Deck on Sunday nights is great and so is the Reef. And if you absolutely love, vineyards and wineries, Chaddsford winery and Evansburg Vineyard are beautiful locations to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. I would absolutely end the week with meditation at the Black Lotus at 11 AM on Sundays.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My shout out is really layered for a lack of a better word. I absolutely have to thank my mother for always being an immediate positive influence in my life and me for years with her encouragement, reinforcement, and sound advice. I also have to thank two of my nieces who really pushed me forward and mentally got me into the space to research specific natural ingredients to encourage healthy skin as well as encourage me that I could do something new in my life and enjoy it.

Website: https://handsofjoi.net/

Instagram: hands_of_joi

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