Reflections on My Small Business Journey

As I reflect on my small business journey, which began in June 2018, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for the experiences and growth it has brought into my life. What started as a simple love for nail polish has turned into so much more—an opportunity for personal development, new friendships, and moments that I will treasure forever.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of meeting incredible people. Customers have become dear friends, friends have become customers, and teammates have become like family. Along the way, I’ve connected with like-minded business leaders in Color Street and other industries, building a network of encouragement and inspiration.

This journey has been full of milestones that make me pause in awe:

• Touring the Color Street home office and manufacturing facility, where I saw firsthand the heart behind the products I love.
• Earning three tropical incentive trips that have taken me to breathtaking destinations. Now, I’m 2/3 of the way to earning my fourth trip to La Romana, Dominican Republic! Reaching this milestone even came with a travel bag reward—a little reminder of how perseverance pays off.
• Creating meaningful moments for my family. The proceeds from my business are making it possible to fund a dream trip with Steve for my mom’s 90th birthday.

While I’m excited to be working towards the next tropical incentive trip, a more important trip comes first. This spring, Steve and I are planning to take my mom to a destination on her bucket list—the Alamo. She celebrates her 90th birthday, and we are beyond thrilled to bring her to visit this historical landmark.

We’re also planning to walk along the Riverwalk (and yes, we’re insisting she use a walker!) and spend several days exploring the history and wineries of the 290 Wine Trail around Fredericksburg and Johnson City, Texas. This trip is so special because it’s been a dream of hers for years, and it means the world to be able to give her this experience.

Your support of my business this fall has enabled us to start making reservations and down payments for this trip. THANK YOU! Providing a means to earn an extra income for things that truly matter is what this journey is all about, and this is one of the most meaningful goals I’ve been able to achieve through my business.

Through all of this, my heart is full of gratitude for the support I’ve received. Whether you’ve hosted a party, shopped from my business, or joined my team, you’ve played a part in making this journey possible. You’ve helped me grow, not just as a business owner but as a person.

What I love most about this business is that it’s more than just nail polish—it’s about adding sparkle to the lives of others, creating meaningful connections, and showing women that they can dream big and achieve more than they thought possible.

And this December, there’s “Snow Place Like Color Street” to start your own journey! New Stylists who join in December are eligible to receive a welcome gift of $100 USD / $135 CAD / €100 EU Product Credit to use on products you can wear, share, or gift. It’s the perfect way to kick off your Color Street journey and experience the magic of this community.

This journey has been a testament to the power of faith, consistency, and community. To those considering their own small business journey, I encourage you to take the leap. It’s not always easy, but the rewards—both tangible and intangible—are so worth it.

Thank you for being part of my story. I’m excited for what’s still to come, and I look forward to continuing to share this journey with all of you.

With love and grace,
Ailene