We had the good fortune of connecting with Kristian Franklin and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Kristian, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My thought process behind starting my own business was to help women like me. Unfortunately, no one taught me how to cater to my natural hair. I had to learn through trial and error. I wish I had someone there to help guide me. But I figured if I wanted that, maybe someone else did too. So, I started Angelic Organics. A hair care line that helps guide women to having healthy natural hair.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is beauty. I can’t get enough of it. I love learning about makeup trends, beauty hacks, hairstyles, hair trends, nail art, etc. I’m blessed that my work is also my hobby. The most challenging thing was sharing my hobby with the world. Working through fears of judgement, failing, and being embarrassed was hard. But I knew putting myself out there would be a win for me regardless. I would be conquering my fears, and even if it didn’t work out, I would learn and try again. So, I’m happy I did. Now people worldwide can access my products and start their healthy hair journey. The lesson I learned was to believe in yourself. It doesn’t matter what other people think. You are the only one that has to show up every day. Do what matters to you. If there’s one thing I want the world to know about my brand, it’s chemical-free, for us by us, environment-friendly, and hand-made. I formulate each bottle, and I wouldn’t want it any other way. Also, all the ingredients are natural and safe to go directly into the ocean.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend came into town I would already have a list of things for us to do! We would hit up my favorite brunch spot, Court Cafe. We have to stop at the mall because you might not know what you need until you see it. Either the Grove, Beverly Center, or Century City would work. We also have to find some time to hike. I love Griffith Park, Runyon, and Los Leones Trail. Then we would stop at Joey’s for their happy hour. And lastly we have to check out a few downtown rooftops like Ace hotel, the Wayfarer, or the Association. That would probably just be day one (lol)!
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Massive shout out to my family, friends, and colleagues for their continuous support as I enter entrepreneurship. My family has always been there for me through all my business ventures. However, this one is extraordinary because natural black hair is near and dear to me. I wouldn’t have the confidence I do now if my mom didn’t push me to learn my hair and my sisters supported me every step. My sisters became brand ambassadors to help me reach more audiences. My mom uses my products and shares them with her friends. My friends have supported me since day one. They were the first to purchase when I first launched in 2021. They continue to support me and support the brand’s vision. Lastly, my job in marketing has helped me understand the real fight small businesses have when cutting through the noise of social media. All-in-all, I wouldn’t be the businesswoman I am today without the people in my life.
