After nearly a decade as a home science professor, I felt a pull towards entrepreneurship. The concept for my business was born out of a desire to create unique, sustainable engraved products. My vision was to offer items like games, wooden jewellery, office accessories, and a variety of functional objects that were not just decorative but also carried a personal touch. I did that by engraving custom designs, texts, or images as per customer requests, making each piece unique and tailored to individual preferences. And that’s how, in 2016, my entrepreneurial journey began in Jaipur.
I was stepping into a market that was already saturated, filled with competitors who had established their presence long before me. The initial challenges were immense. From conceptualising my unique designs to setting up the manufacturing process and managing the intricate web of finances, each step was a steep learning curve. However, despite these hurdles, my determination only grew stronger. I knew that I had something special to offer, something that could stand out in the crowded marketplace.
One of the most significant challenges was establishing a brand identity. In a world where consumers are bombarded with choices, making my mark requires more than just quality products. It needed a story, a narrative that customers could connect with. I spent countless hours researching market trends, understanding customer preferences, and fine-tuning my marketing strategy.
Another major hurdle was streamlining the manufacturing process. As a new entrant in the business world, finding the right suppliers, ensuring quality control, and managing production costs were tasks that I had to learn on the go. There were moments of doubt and frustration, but each challenge was a lesson that made me and my business stronger.
The pivotal moment in my journey was my association with the Walmart Vriddhi program in 2022. The program was more than just a business booster; it was a learning journey that reshaped my entrepreneurial outlook. Through Walmart Vriddhi, I gained invaluable insights into market trends, production optimisation, and customer engagement strategies.
One key aspect of my learning was understanding the nuances of sustainable business practices. Walmart Vriddhi’s focus on eco-friendly materials and processes resonated with my vision, prompting me to adopt more sustainable methods in my production. This not only enhanced my brand’s appeal but also underscored my commitment to the environment.
Additionally, the program equipped me with digital marketing and branding skills. I learned to effectively promote my products and reach a wider audience, a critical component in today’s market landscape. Networking with fellow entrepreneurs and industry experts provided me with diverse perspectives and ideas, further enriching my business approach.
After embracing new business strategies and practices, my business has experienced a substantial boost in growth. There was a noticeable increase in sales and customer base, and I expanded my market reach through eCommerce platforms. I experienced around 20-30% growth, a testament to the effectiveness of the strategies and practices I adopted from
the program.
Looking to the future, my aspirations are twofold: expansion and sustainability. I am keen on broadening my product range and infusing more innovative and eco-friendly designs. Additionally, exploring new markets is high on my agenda. I see tremendous potential in harnessing the power of eCommerce to further propel my business.
Central to my future is my commitment to sustainability. Walmart Vriddhi has instilled in me the importance of environmentally responsible business practices. I plan to continue integrating these principles into every aspect of my business, ensuring that growth and sustainability go hand in hand.
