Rashieda Anderson, the owner of @sassyluxeonline_za, tells us all about the inspiration, trials & tribulations and rewards of owning a small business. Read more below.
Please describe your business & its offerings:
Based in Cape Town, Sassy Luxe Online is your go-to online store for trendy jewelry and accessories, proudly South African and female-owned! I started Sassy Luxe to help you feel sassy, confident, and empowered every day. We’re all about delivering the latest trends at prices that won’t empty your wallet. Whether you’re looking for bold, eye-catching pieces or sleek, subtle accents, we’ve got just the accessories to elevate your look.What makes us stand out? Our fantastic customer service and super affordable prices. We’re here to make sure your Sassy Luxe experience is always top-notch. With our budget-friendly options and great shipping rates, we’re all about helping you express yourself with style and confidence.
What inspired you to start your own business and how did you come up with the idea?
Starting Sassy Luxe Online was a journey driven by personal inspiration and a desire to follow my passion. When COVID hit, I was retrenched from my job in travel and tourism, which was a tough experience. However, this challenging time gave me the chance to reassess my life and spend more quality time with my daughter, who was a baby at the time. It was a period of reflection that led me to rethink my future.I’ve always had a passion for fashion and a vision of creating something of my own. With this newfound clarity, extra time, and the support of my husband, I realized I could turn my dream into reality by starting an online store focused on trendy, affordable jewelry and accessories that I source from suppliers. Sassy Luxe Online was born out of a desire to offer stylish pieces that make people feel sassy, confident, and empowered. The idea was to build a brand that blends my love for accessories with the mission of providing accessible, fun, and stylish choices for everyone.
Can you tell us some of your biggest challenges you have faced as an entrepreneur?
As an entrepreneur running Sassy Luxe Online, I’ve definitely faced my fair share of challenges. Balancing the demands of running a online business with my responsibilities as a mom is one of the toughest parts. It means a lot of late nights and careful juggling, but it’s all worth it to see my vision come to life.Another challenge is standing out in a crowded market. With so many brands out there, finding ways to keep Sassy Luxe Online unique and fresh is key. This means staying on top of trends, constantly updating our product offerings, and ensuring our customer service is always top-notch.Managing logistics and keeping costs in check can also be tricky. From sourcing materials to handling shipping, every detail matters when it comes to delivering a great experience while sticking to a budget. Despite these hurdles, they’ve taught me a lot about resilience, creativity, and the need to adapt. These experiences have been instrumental in shaping Sassy Luxe Online into the brand it is today.
What role has your local community played the growth and success of your business?
The local community has been crucial to the growth and success of Sassy Luxe Online. Based in Cape Town, we’ve been lucky to get amazing support from local customers who love our affordable jewellery and hair accessories. Their enthusiasm and loyalty have helped us build a strong and dedicated customer base. Our community has also been a great source of inspiration and word-of-mouth referrals. Local customers often share their positive experiences with friends and family, which has helped us grow organically.Overall, the support from our local community has been a major driving force behind our success, and I am so grateful for it. Their support continues to motivate me every day.
What advice would you give other women who are considering starting their own business?
For women thinking about starting their own business, my top advice is to go after what truly excites you. When you're passionate about your idea, it’ll keep you motivated through the ups and downs. Start by doing your homework get to know your market, your customers, and your competition, and create a solid plan to guide you. Be ready to adapt as things change, and don't underestimate the power of networking. Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, mentors, and potential customers to build your support system. Also, make sure to take care of yourself and find a balance between work and personal life. Celebrate every win, big or small, because each step forward is progress. Starting a business is a wild ride, but with passion, preparation, and perseverance, you can turn your dreams into a thriving reality.
Fun, quick-fire, one word answers:
Fun, quick-fire, one word answers:
1. What is your go-to snack?
Chocolate
2. What gets you out of bed in the morning?
Family
3. What is your favourite product from In The Box?
Shipper boxes, ofcourse 😉
