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Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Bohemian Business Spotlight

It's very difficult for me to introduce this next woman. Not because I don't have anything to say, but because there are so many things that I want to say. Itiel McVay is one half of the dynamic duo behind Smell Goods '98. She's not only a smart business woman, but I like to think of her as a modern day renaissance gal. Whiles she's whipping up scrubs, and oils to make you smell darn good (I'm a fan!), she's also a wife, home schooling mother of two beautiful princesses, a philanthropist (yep, she gives back to the youth), and if that's not enough....she's a huge supporter of other women owned businesses! It's apparent that Itiel is business savvy and has a great work ethic because Smell Goods '98 has been going strong for over 10 years! If I haven't told you enough already, please check out her interview below.  Enjoy!


1. I won't ask your age, but what was your favorite t.v. show to watch growing up? 
Good Times

2.  What gave you the AUDACITY to start a business?
My will of never accepting NO.  My confidence that I knew I could do it and do it well. My discernment from a young child, knowing that I did not have to follow the norm-way-of-life.

3. Out of all the creative businesses you could have chosen to start, why did you choose Smell Goods '98?
My husband was the seed planter of this business. He is the one that shed light on my entrepreneurial spirit.  Smell Goods '98™ is the right creative business for me; It embodies all that I love and enjoy in life.

4. Lots of people want to be their own boss, however they don't understand that it really Is harder then it seems. What's your typical work day like?
Yes, being your own boss is harder than it seems. My typical day: creating products, shipping orders, updating website, updating social networks, responding to emails, putting ideas into motion, making several to-do lists, working on newsletter, posting blogs, learning/studying more about ingredients and business, sending emails, following up with other business professionals. Plus I am a wife and home schooling mother.



5. How do you find the strength to persevere when the challenges seem to outweigh the rewards?
I focus on past rewards. Knowing that when I persevere fruits are gained.

6. What inspires you?
Inspiration for my product creations are derived from gourmet desserts, gourmet beverages, and confections; Culture is also inspiration for my fragrances.  My creative inspiration comes from big business such as Apple, Target, Cold Stone Creamery , Jelly Belly, and some other big businesses.  The inspiration that keeps me going for what I desire for myself comes from my husband, children, and all women in business that are living their fullest lives.  

7. What's your go to wine when it's time to unwind? :)
A very nice Port (Vinzelo). :)



8. When it comes to the following words, what advice would you give?

WorkBe consistent. Strive for excellence.

Self: Be consistent. Be genuine. Stay healthy and fit. Relax, reflect, rejuvenate.  

Life: Be consistent.  Live. Laugh. Love. Accept life for what it is. Change what you can. Always be willing to evolve.

LoveBe consistent. Love because you want to, not because you WANT it in return. Could you be love and be loved?

Friends:  
Be consistent. Be a friend to those who are friends to you. Realizing that if one hand totals the number of true friends in your life, you are pretty much normal. :)  Be good to that "one hand".

9. I define a Bohemian Spirit as someone who is free, unique, and unafraid to make her own stamp on the world. Why are you a Bohemian Spirit?  
I am a Bohemian Spirit because I am free, I am unique, I am unafraid (as in courageous to conquer my fears).  I was born with those attributes, I don't plan to dispose of them. 


Itiel McVay
 Smell Goods '98™
Specializing in signature fragrance oil blends, signature hand-dipped incense, and made-to-order, wholesome bath & body products.

12 comments:

  1. Very nice, she is on my list of product to try out!(her hair is gorgeous!)

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  2. Thank you, M. for the opportunity to shine my light. Thank you TheVelvetBox. xo

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  3. Wow! Her products look amazing.

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  4. I always wonder if it appropriate to say I am so pleased and proud of you because you do more for me than you perhaps know, but I truly am. Neither the memory nor the story gets old: UNCC and a shoebox in 1998. When we put our hands into any shoebox, we pull out creativity. But you two made me realize what it takes to put creativity into, a shoebox, and the box had no shoes, only the steps you took to get your there. There is where we are with you, and I am glad to have the view I do, Smelling so Good all the while. We applaud you; we say, "Thank you, Itiel and Tovijah."

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  5. They do Glenda. I'm going to have to order some! I really like the Almond Wipped Cream Scrub.

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  6. She also had samples too! My kind of business woman!

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  7. Enjoyed reading this feature. Her products ARE amazing and she provides such quality service!

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  8. Wow! You guys are so amazing! Thank you so very much. Such motivation. @Glenda & Nappy Style- I look forward to serving you soon. @ Derrick- No, the story nor memory gets old. You were/are one of the many that made/makes it all worth it. :) @TheCEOMama- I appreciate you.

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  9. GREAT and she is as beautiful as her smell goods..

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  10. I'll add one word: BEAUTIFUL!!!

    Love to you both always,

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  11. Awww, thank you, tomingo and Elise.

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  12. Itiel is such a Beautiful Person and a Beautiful Spirit. Her products are Amazing. Great interview and very inspiring! Her advice are Great words to live by. I am proud to call her my Sister!

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I really appreciate you taking the time to comment. Thank you!