Week 4 "Hey Seasoned Stylists..."

I spoke with Jeff on Friday, May 25th and we discussed the results of the Zoom meeting. And it seems way more effective than I originally believed it to be. Directing the customer discovery/interactive questions from the Zoom event was effective in creating a platform that none of the existing alternatives provide. He wanted me to create a dialogue that addresses the issues service providers concerns amid COVID-19. “Hey seasoned stylist! We know you’re ready to go back to work after COVID-19, but let us give you a platform where you won’t only stay booked, but you’ll get paid in advance without touching cash or cards, have time to disinfect and sanitize in between clients and pay your bills as you’re able to only take a certain percentage of your client...”. He also wanted me to refine the customer segments for the Customer Lean Canvas specifically. Lastly, he suggested that I individually speak to the attendees of the Zoom meeting to ensure that their feedback wasn’t a result of groupthink. I have another meeting with Jeff scheduled for Friday May 29th. 

I updated the Lean Canvas and adjusted the Customer Segmentation, Revenue Stream (monthly subscriptions vs. Service fees) based on the Zoom conversation feedback. I am still individually speaking with participants of the Zoom conversation. I'm just waiting to hear more individualized information from the participants. I sent of individual emails.

I tracked the products imports. I have over 10 different orders coming in, so I had to make a log to make sure I have up-to-date tracking. I've found that some of the manufacturers don’t follow through on shipping on time. The log is an awesome reference.

I have tested and added the Livid DIY Polygel Kit to the website, made a video and made the purchase available to take preorders. I have secured someone to unbox the kit and make a promo video. The person has awesome work and has a decent following on Instagram. I am in the process of adding the Magnetic Lashes to the website and reaching out to a local MUA who also has a large and unique following to make a promo video.

The PPP loan's use will go towards payroll for Livid Lash employees which includes myself and my assistant. I will use my portion to raise more funds for launching Livid Lash Pro.

I have been knocking things out! But I want to make sure I making the most of completing tasks on time. I want to also be able to make room for pivoting and adjusting as the unexpected comes my way. Performing these the tasks related to the Capstone and working with Jeff, while trying to pivot my business is making me extremely excited for Detroit Startup Week. At first, I was overwhelmed at the thought of Detroit Startup Week (it’s five days back-to-back), but I anticipate being able to learn more during this unprecedented time. I believe it will help my business, future endeavors, but more importantly, I will be able to help others get through these rough times (entrepreneurs and the general public). 

Progress during prior week

• Used customer discovery from Zoom and implemented it into customer engagement and Livid Lash Pro Lean Canvas

• Figured out how to get more impact out of the online workshop ad

• Completed research and paper on two sources for capital on Black Girl Ventures and Women VC

• Planned out the use of the SBA PPP Loan

• Revised Lean Canvas and move to the next step of Maurya’s Process

• Tracked imports of products (created a log), packaging (delayed shipment) and update website (Livid DIY kit/Magnetic Lashes) and marketplaces (funnel marketing)

Plans for the coming week

• Individually interview Zoom attendees to make sure their feedback wasn’t a result of group think

• Revise Lean Canvas to hon in on Segments portion

• Make a monologue directed toward attracting Service Providers

• Execute product and workshop marketing

Questions/Issues/Concerns/Observations

I don't have any questions or concerns this week, just a lot of work to do.