Meet Maxine Gomez, CFO of Swipes Inc
Tell us about your business?
Swipes inc is the minority/women owned company that produces Swipes Lovin Wipes ®, are an all natural, biodegradable, compostable, dispersible, and flushable personal hygiene wipes that are, free of alcohol, chlorine, and dyes, made of 98% renewable resources and are intended for adults to freshen up before and after intimate moments. Because it is enhanced with only aloe and vitamin E and are also hypo-allergenic, they are safe and soft for even the most sensitive places.
Please tell us what being a business owner means to you and why you became an entrepreneur in the first place?
Before I started Swipes Inc, with my partner, Vera, I had the intention of starting medical school. Although, I was excited about continuing my education, I felt as though there was something more that I wanted to do. Now that Swipes Inc is running on all cylinders, I have the freedom to work with people I want, get involved in events and charities I care about, and take pride in knowing that I am offering an eco friendly product that is priced reasonably and therefore accessible to more people.
What or who has been your greatest influence in business and why?
My inspiration was my mother, who after working 17 years for someone else, decided to open her own Physical Therapy office, she has never been happier because she finally gets to treat patients with personal care and attention. The greatest influence was my sister, she is an environmentalist and guided me in all aspects Green.
What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date?
From a business stand point it has definitely been: overcoming the hurdles placed in front of us by large companies, but slowly and surely they have seen the value and opened their doors.
What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers?
Get advice from as many different channels, don’t accept the word of one person as the final answer. Everyone you meet has words of wisdom, but ultimately your gut instinct will make the best decision.
What has been the most effective marketing initiatives or programs you have used to promote your business?
Apart from the social media, the most effective initiatives we have taken have been to get involved in local and non-profit organizations. By providing product samples to people at these types of events, we get the product directly in the hands of the consumer and we get to support a cause. Great for branding and all around feel good experience.
What one thing have you learned as a small business owner that has served you well over the years?
Ask questions. No matter how good you are at your business, there is no possible way you can be the expert in all aspects of your business. Nobody is going to know or love your business more than you. But don’t be afraid to know your limitations, people are always willing to help, especially in their area of expertise. It gives them a chance to shine, helps your business, and facilitates in better decision making
Are there any resources or tools you’d like to share with other small business owners that have helped you run your business?
I believe this depends on the area of your business. If, for example you are an eco company, get involved in eco groups, communities, events, etc. If you are a baby product, get involved with mommies. And ask them what they want. If you have a great idea, but don’t know how to get it out there, nobody will know you exist.
Do you have any new projects coming up (or have you just completed a big project ~ reached a milestone, etc.)?
We just celebrated out official Grand Opening Party, as members of certain communities, we reached many people and by hosting the event at our location, giving away samples, we made sales, new customers, and were even interviewed by the local media. In addition, after months of chasing, piles of paperwork, and endless emails we have just been welcomed into a large distribution company. Very exciting.
What do you do for fun/relaxation?
Living in Florida, I definitely take advantage of the things around me. I love to go for a run outside with my Jack Russell, “Ocean.” To cool off in the heat I am an avid scuba diver, and I love to go fishing and cook what I catch. To relax (and so much more) I enjoy Hot Vinyasa Yoga.
What is Number One Business Goal you plan to accomplish over the next year?
To make Swipes a household name.
You want to write a book on: Cooking what you catch-recipes for the kitchen and for life, learning how to take advantage of your resources, whether it be food ingredients or life experiences
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I just published a Children’s book, but it was just for fun.
It is called the Adventures of the Chinchilla and the Gorilla :
What’s the best way for our readers to connect with you?
http://www.facebook.com/swipesfans
https://twitter.com/#!/sexyandgreen
https://www.youtube.com/user/SwipesLovinWipes?feature=mhum
http://sexyandgreen.tumblr.com/
