Life & Work with Brandon Cordova of Tucson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Brandon Cordova.

Hi Brandon, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Soap is in my blood.  Five generations of soap making began with my great great grandmother, who would extract fragrances and oils from the local plants and herbs of her surroundings to produce cleansing products for her community in Silver City, New Mexico.  Her knowledge and craftsmanship were passed down each generation for well over a century until finally reaching me.  Although making soap with the finest oils and butters had been in the family since the 1800s, I decided to dig a little deeper when developing my own unique line of bath and body products.  Born with vitiligo and a plethora of allergies, I formulated skin products that were safe for sensitive skin and all skin types because I want my products to be enjoyed by everyone.  Not only are my premium ingredients of the finest quality, but they are also ethically sourced and kind to the environment.  My shea and cocoa butter, for example, are purchased directly from the hardworking families producing these butters overseas, and none of my ingredients are derived from animals, meaning my products are cruelty free and 100% vegan.  Below you will find more information about the ingredients I use to make soap and why each one is essential to providing you with premium products of the highest quality.  But soap making was just the beginning.  In recent years, I recognized my passion for creating new skincare products that excited and satisfied those around me, including my “Glow Up” serum that quickly gained popularity due to incredible results.  The testimonials blew me away—customers reporting the end of life-long dry skin and women going through pregnancy without a single stretch mark.  Witnessing the positive impact of my own products inspired me to explore the science behind skincare, the latest technology, and the most effective remedies available.  Therefore, it was a no-brainer to attend aesthetics school to learn more about the products and treatments that help us look and feel our best.  Now, as a licensed master aesthetician, I find joy and fulfillment in sharing the knowledge I have acquired to help others achieve their own skincare goals.  Creating and selling products will always be a part of who I am and where I came from, but nowadays you are more likely to find me working in aesthetics, where I provide individualized and results-driven services.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been entirely smooth. Like many entrepreneurs, I’ve encountered several struggles along the way. While funding was not an issue for me, finding the right balance between managing resources and meeting the demands of growth proved challenging. My husband has been incredibly supportive, helping with every market and event, which has eased some of the pressure. However, standing out among numerous vendors requires constant innovation in product offerings and effective marketing strategies. Coordinating inventory levels and ensuring product quality for multiple events also adds complexity to operations. Additionally, keeping up with regulatory compliance for product safety and labeling has been a demanding aspect of the business. Building a loyal customer base has taken time and effort, requiring me to develop effective communication and follow-up strategies. Each of these challenges has taught me valuable lessons and pushed me to adapt and grow my business.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a skincare innovator and master aesthetician, and I’m proud to specialize in creating effective products that cater to all skin types and concerns. My focus is on using high-quality ingredients that are both nourishing and beneficial, ensuring that my clients receive the best care possible. I’m known for my personalized approach; I take the time to understand each client’s unique needs and tailor my recommendations accordingly. Cashmere Musk has become the signature scent of my brand and has catapulted my business in ways I never imagined. Our serums are one of, if not the best, in Tucson, showcasing the quality and effectiveness of what I offer. What sets me apart from others in Tucson is my commitment to continuous education and staying updated on the latest skincare trends and techniques, allowing me to provide cutting-edge solutions. Ultimately, I take pride in the transformations my clients experience and the confidence they gain through healthier skin.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I never had a formal mentor, but my journey has taught me valuable lessons about networking and finding support in the industry. After getting a basic recipe from my grandmother, I experimented with my first batch of soap and realized that with research and creativity, I could improve it and create something unique. While the soaping community can be tough, as it isn’t always welcoming and tends to harbor jealousy towards those who succeed, I’ve learned to navigate these challenges. Attending local events and markets has allowed me to connect with other artisans and entrepreneurs, even when facing adversity. Engaging in conversations and sharing experiences has helped me build relationships and gain insights. Additionally, utilizing social media to connect with like-minded individuals has been effective in expanding my network. My advice would be to be open to learning from everyone you meet, as inspiration and knowledge can come from unexpected places, and to keep pushing forward despite any negativity you may encounter.

Pricing:

• Soap $10
• Candles $30
• Serums $20
• Car Diffusers $10

Contact Info:

• Website: www.honestbarsco.com
• Instagram: honest_bars