The Member Showcase winner for October was Christine Killing of
Steeped Tea! Read on below to learn more about Christine and her business.
Here is what Christine had to say:
Tell us a little about yourself and what you do?
Mother, wife, business woman, friend, these are just few of the titles that can be used for me. I am someone who loves being with my family, someone who loves being in the community and participating in local events, such as theatre, arts, and music. But who am I? This is a question that is not easily answered and I am finding myself searching everyday. I hope that I am someone who is kind, and passionate about my community, and would love to get to know you better too!
What do you do?
I deliver tea and happiness! As an independent consultant for Steeped Tea I get to introduce delicious tea and wonderful treats in an intimate setting, with your friends and family.
How and why did you get involved in your industry?
I discovered Steeped Tea by accident. It truly was the best tea I had ever had. I received some Earl Grey de la Creme, and my husband also enjoyed it, so much so that I had to order some more within the month. Doing the math I discovered that becoming an independent consultant would actually save me money in the long run. Steeped Tea has been an amazing company to work for, many perks and rewards, lots of training and support. And the best part is getting to share wonderful teas and accessories with everyone.
Who is your ideal client?
My ideal client is the person who is curious about loose leaf tea and would like to learn more at a tasting party with their friends and family. The person who wants to learn how good tea can be, who wants to know more about all the fantastic accessories and how they work. The person who might be interested in becoming an independent consultant themselves and setting their own goals.
What advice do you have for fellow women in business?
Never be afraid to ask for help! We all have our strengths, and there are things that we are not good at. Knowing what your individual strengths and weaknesses are will help you determine where you will need help. For instance, I don't like bookkeeping, I find it stressful, so I found an amazing person through the MDBWA who does my bookkeeping for me. I know it's done right, and it's one less thing for me to worry about.
What is the hardest obstacle you have had to overcome in business?
The hardest obstacle I have had to overcome is admitting I can't do it all by myself. As mentioned in the advice, I needed to admit there were things that I could not do, or did not want to do and had to seek help. But once I was able to understand that even though I am responsible for my business, seeking help is the wiser choice both personally and professionally.
What is your favourite part of what you do?
Seeing the joy on someones face when they try something new! I love the social aspect to being an independent consultant for Steeped Tea, bringing yummy tea into someones home, sharing it with their friends and family. Having someone who tells me they don't like tea, but then getting them to change their minds by offering so many varieties and flavours. Bringing a simple pleasure to life, that is my favourite part!
What is your definition of success?
Success, for me, involves moving forward professionally and personally. I ask myself each night, "have I made a difference to someone today?" and if I can honestly say yes then I feel like I have achieved success. Some might feel like selling tea can't possibly change the world, and I say that it can. How many of us get together with our friends and family without a beverage or snack? Why not bring the highest quality of tea, or snack to that get together, and really take on the world?