We had the good fortune of connecting with Lecretia Gorman and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Lecretia, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
So many things come to mind when I first started my business. It goes back to 2011 when I cut off my relaxed hair to go natural. I learned so much during this process. I was more conscious of the foods I consumed and the skin and hair products I used. After researching natural alternatives, I started making my own oils and using a lot of shea butter.
In 2016, I had a need for lotion to cure my dry skin. In 2017, my oldest daughter was born. While nursing her in the early morning, I decided to research reports and watch videos and taught myself how to make lotion. An idea was sparked in my mind, and with determination, my ideas took off.
This was the beginning of my business “Amiyah Natural Products.” Since I am a graphic designer, I designed my logo for my business and filed all the necessary paperwork, including trademarking my design. I opened an Etsy and Amazon shop, worked on my marketing materials, and created a second Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter account for my business.
Next, I performed tests and product samples for my family and friends. I was a full-time graphic designer by day and a mom, wife, and business owner by night. My overall goal is to provide healthier skin and hair products for women, such as lip care, hair care, and body care products, using less color, pure essential oils, and better ingredients than commercial products.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I must say that God truly blessed me with a lot of talent. Sometimes, it can be overwhelming because whenever I need something, I learn how to do it and become an expert at it. On the flip side, when people know I can do something, they ask for many favors.
I would say that I’ve been drawing since I was a toddler. I learned to paint in high school. I went to college for Art and Graphic Design. Taking my art classes was easy and challenging, but I love a challenge. Graduating was difficult because I had to change my major to get to where I am now. I majored in graphic design but attained a degree in graphic communications. I was too determined to leave school without a degree that wouldn’t lead to a graphic design career.
After graduating, I gradually accepted graphic design-related and print-related jobs until I found my current position. Art has always been on the side. I create things to inspire myself, or I paint to relax. I’ve learned that when life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Lol. When I didn’t get into the Graphic Design program, I didn’t give up; I found another way around the program.
I want my readers to know that having multiple visions is okay. Finally, I am able to access all my passions at once. I am a professional graphic designer. I create skincare products and I paint murals for my church on my off days.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My best friend and I love to visit a restaurant on Peachtree Road every year. They serve Blueberry Haberaro Boneless Wings, and we have a good time every year. Before having kids, I was a nightlife owl. But now, I love to try different restaurants and have a glass of wine or a mixed drink. I love to laugh and catch up on life. Also, if we decided to plan a trip, I would be the adventurous one. I love outdoor adventures like walking trails, climbing Stone Mountain, ziplining, water skiing, etc.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Yes, there are a few people. My husband, Mark Gorman, has encouraged me to keep going when it gets tough. Some days, I’m not in the mood to work or feel defeated, but he’s always encouraging me. I decided to participate in numerous festivals this year, and he accommodated his schedule to assist me.
I want to thank my mom, Jacqueline White. I would text her with ideas and suggestions, and she was always there. Mom had the best names if I was stuck and needed clever names for my fragrances.
Of course, I have friends and customers who have suggested things and gave me advice over the years. Besides my husband, my aunt, Kim Grant, and brother-in-law, Kevin Gorman, are my biggest supporters on social media. They like and repost most of my content.
I appreciate everyone for helping me with business.
Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/AmiyahNaturalProduct
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amiyah_natural_products/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/amiyahnp
Facebook: facebook.com/amiyahnaturalproducts/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@amiyahnaturalproducts