Today we’d like to introduce you to Abby Senger
Hi Abby, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I founded Sunsejoy in the spring of 2023, fueled by a deep passion for plant-based skincare. My experience working with a local apothecary in Austin gave me the confidence to pursue my entrepreneurial dreams. While I had been crafting skincare for myself since my early 20s, it was only at 34 that I recognized it as my true calling, inspired by others who successfully turned their passions into businesses.
After having my daughter, I realized that children’s skincare products often contained harsh chemicals, much like those in adult products. This insight drove me to develop skincare using 100% plant-based ingredients, focusing on healing and medicinal plants that are gentle on sensitive skin and offer effective hydration.
I launched my first product and the Sunsejoy website in the fall of 2023. I now sell through sunsejoy.com, participate in local pop-up events and markets around Austin, and offer local pick-up at Slow North, located at 2700 W Anderson Ln #410, Austin, Texas. I provide free shipping on all orders and aim to keep my products affordable. My mission is to ensure that everyone has access to happy, healthy, and hydrated skin at accessible prices. I’m excited to continue growing and developing more exceptional plant-based skincare products for everyone to enjoy.
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?
My support system has been incredibly strong throughout this journey. My family and friends are not only customers but also enthusiastic advocates for Sunsejoy, which makes the experience even more rewarding. I truly believe in the healing benefits of my skincare, using Sunsejoy products daily and seeing their positive impact on myself, my family, and my friends.
This past year has been filled with optimism, even on the slow days, because this journey excites me. My goal is to open my own studio in central Austin, and while I understand this will take time, I’m patient and prepared to take the gradual path to achieving both personal and business milestones.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At Sunsejoy, I handle every aspect of the business, from creating skincare formulas to designing packaging, labels, and the website, as well as managing advertising and marketing. My work is deeply personal, and I take pride in sharing my passion for plant-based skincare with others. My creative and artistic outlook enhances every part of the process, from formulating products to designing the website and running a skincare blog on sunsejoy.com. Promoting on social media platforms also serves as a creative outlet for me. I am proud of the dedication I’ve put into building Sunsejoy and look forward to pursuing it for the rest of my life.
What sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to using only 100% plant-based ingredients in all Sunsejoy products. While many businesses offer healing skincare, I remain dedicated to staying true to my passion for plants, avoiding any synthetic chemicals, even if they are deemed safe by others.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Yes, finding a mentor and networking are invaluable for building relationships and growing your business. Personally, I’ve found that actively participating in local markets and events in Austin has been very effective for networking. Following and engaging with local companies on social media platforms like Instagram helps build a supportive community. I particularly enjoy connecting with other women-owned small business owners, and I always strive to gain insights and learn from their experiences. This approach has been instrumental in my growth and has allowed me to continuously learn and evolve.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sunsejoy.com/
- Instagram: @sunsejoy
Image Credits
All photos were taken by me, Abby Senger.
