For many entrepreneurs and small businesses, social media can be an absolute game-changer! All it takes is one viral post and a business can suddenly take off.
At Like A Voss Social Media, we’re highlighting local businesses and entrepreneurs who are killing the online game. This week’s spotlight is on Tara and Sonia, owners of The Comox Box!
The Comox Box was created with convenience and simplicity in mind as a way for consumers to purchase handmade products from numerous small businesses without having to leave home! We do the leg work for you by offering curated boxes or the option to build your own from our vast selection. All of our vendors are small businesses creating beautiful (and delicious) items right here in BC and we are always adding more!
Our girl Betina interviewed Tara and Sonia about their secret to success in business and in life. We also got some awesome insights into what they think makes social media such an effective tool in business.
A Little Bit About Being a Female Entrepreneur
1: How long have you been in business?
We’ve been in business for one year now! Celebrating our 1st year open this July 2021.
2: What made you decide to break away from the 9-5 and start The Comox Box?
During Covid we came to realize there had to be an easier way to support small business. Staying at home with our kids made it more difficult to get out and shop local for gifts. We wanted to create a platform which allowed consumers to purchase local gifts with simplicity and convenience. With just a few clicks, you can order that perfect customized Comox box for yourself or a loved one!
3: What do you love most about being a female entrepreneur?
Our favourite part is actually specific to what we do, it’s not the money or the title of being your own boss, but instead it’s the gratitude that comes from seeing the excitement on people’s faces when they receive one of our boxes. It’s knowing we are helping so many small businesses while making people’s lives just a little bit easier!
4: What is the hardest thing you have had to overcome as a female entrepreneur? Something you did not foresee when you decided to start The Comox Box?
In society, women are often lumped into these stereotypical gender roles of being homemakers, caretakers etc and being able to step outside of that to achieve our own success is empowering. In the beginning, I don’t think either of us realized the time that would go into this. We didn’t know what to expect and weren’t entirely sure how it would be received. Juggling the obligations of our daily lives and our children’s needs while running our own businesses at the same time has been no easy feat but the sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with it is worth it!
5: What is one thing about working in the gifting industry that people would be surprised to learn?
People like to personalize! In the early days we really anticipated people would prefer curated gifts. We thought having the option to hop online and just pick something that was already put together would be a big hit, but that wasn’t the case at all. We did some research and looked into other gifting companies, at the time, no one out there was offering an option to customize. We decided to give it a go and see what happened. It was surprising how quickly it took off! We learned that people truly love to put time and thought into what they’re gifting and we love that we can give that option! By providing a wide variety of choice, it allows for true personalization and ensures any budget, preference or occasion can be met!
And Now Onto The Social Media Questions!
6: Do you have a favorite social media platform? Why?
We utilize both Instagram & Facebook but Instagram would be the preferred platform. We find we capture more interest from Instagram and the reach is far greater.
7: What made you decide to start using social media as a way to promote your company?
We all know the power of social media, it’s extensive and near limitless. It provides you with the opportunity to reach people outside of your immediate area. Although we only ship within Canada at this time, we receive orders from all over Canada, US and even Australia sending to family here at home! This sort of reach couldn’t be obtained without a social media presence.
8: How has social media impacted your business? Would you say that it’s an effective marketing tool?
It’s been very effective for us! Certainly a huge learning curve, with something new to be learned daily, but a great tool in getting our name out there!
9: What advice would you give to other businesses and entrepreneurs who want to use social media as a way to connect with customers?
Plan out your content a week beforehand if you can. Learn what hashtags you should be using. Comment, share, like & save your followers content, spread the love!!
A Little More About Tara and Sonia
Tara & Sonia graduated together from Mark R Isfeld in Courtenay, BC and have been friends for 17 years. They’ve worked together in healthcare, watched each other get married, build lives and have kids! Between them they have 4 kids ages 9,9,8 & 4 who always keep them on their toes! Their kids are best buds who spend most days together while their moms build those Comox Boxes!
Connect with Tara and Sonia
Know Any Voss Babes?
Do you know a female entrepreneur who loves social media as much as we do? Contact us today – we’d love to tell her story!
