Conversations with Taina Hernandez

Today we’d like to introduce you to Taina Hernandez.

Hi Taina, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My story starts after I graduated Highschool 1 year early! I dove deep into researching natural skincare, vegan and plant-based ingredients that are skin loving and found a love for herbs, tinctures, and more! In 2017 all the essentials I created were simply for fun or to help my skin glow a little more! Around 2018 before my birthday on June 29th, I broke out severely with eczema and acne. Nothing seemed to help my skin until I created a calendula petal + turmeric powder concoction cooked on low heat with sunflower, rosehip, and many seed oils. After consistently using my handmade products for 1 week, I noticed my acne scars and eczema flare-ups had surpassed. Then my family and friends started noticing and wanting to purchase my essentials! The rest is history!

You wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been fairly smooth?
The road to my success of being a full-time small business owner at just 22 years old has been a journey! While the road has not always been smooth for me, it’s always been beautiful, hilarious & SERENE! I won’t say good or bad because I truly believe the good and bad shape you and make you, and it’s labeling the journey good or bad takes away from the entire adventure of life! Some life lesson I’ve learned is that working for yourself means many all-nighters, so much hard work & discipline that is only taught through big mistakes!

Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Helping the community and the people closest to me is my biggest passion, aside from making the coolest essentials ever! I handmake funky & spiritually fun candles, skincare & essentials that aid in helping you find self-love! I throw community events, pop-ups, and markets that showcase local AZ businesses and nonprofits, all while raising funds for various community causes. I’m also a part-time freelance model, focusing on portraits, creative projects & more. I want to think I’m known for my luxurious BODY BUTTA + MAGIC CANDLES that bring good energy to your life & even better smells! I think the thing that sets me apart from others is how young I am, a black woman in AZ who creates unique essentials.

Pricing:

• Every essential on our site is under $50

Contact Info:

• Website: https://thesereneessentials.store/
• Instagram: instagram.com/thesereneessentials
• Facebook: facebook.com/thesereneessentials
• Twitter: twitter.com/tsestore 

Image Credits
4th photo – @catsphotoshoot