Reflections on Year One: The TariaCosmetics LLC Journey

One year ago, TariaCosmetics LLC was a vision. Today, it’s a thriving reality built on late nights, steep learning curves, and a lot of heart. As I look back on my first 365 days in business, I’m amazed at how much there is to learn beyond the products themselves.

While I’ve spent the year perfecting our signature lotion bars, I’ve also been enrolled in the "school of hard knocks" when it comes to running a digital business. Here is what my first year has taught me.

The Power of Presence: From SEO to Daytime TV

Marketing is the heartbeat of any new business. I’ve spent this year diving deep into both organic and paid marketing, learning how to balance the two. One of my biggest takeaways? SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is non-negotiable. If Google doesn’t know you exist, neither do your customers.

Beyond the screen, I’ve worked hard to get the word out through every platform possible. A major highlight was my interview on Daytime Buffalo on WIVB, and I’m excited to keep that momentum going with several upcoming podcast appearances!

Building the Brand(Legally!)

I learned the "nitty-gritty" of brand identity this year. I designed the TariaCosmetics logo and took the plunge into the legal side of things by applying for a trademark. I am so proud to share that our trademark is officially approved, protecting the brand I’ve worked so hard to build.

A Warning to Fellow Entrepreneurs: The Scammer Surge

If there is one thing I wish I’d known on Day 1, it’s how relentless scammers are. The moment you file your DBA or LLC, your information becomes public—and the vultures start circling.

 * The Meta Trap: As soon as you run a social media ad campaign, scammers will flood your inbox. They often pretend to be "Meta Support" via Facebook, IG, or WhatsApp, claiming there is a problem with your account.

 * The Golden Rule: Check the email domain. If it’s not from a verified official source, delete it.

 * Don't Click: Never click links in these messages. Scammers can use links to compromise your security or attach malicious code to your own links if you share them with the wrong "representative."

Expanding the Digital Storefront

I’ve learned that you can’t just wait for people to find your website. I’ve worked to put TariaCosmetics on multiple search platforms and expanded our reach to Etsy, eBay, TikTok, and Amazon Prime.

I also took on the challenge of setting up, running, and maintaining tariacosmetics.net, and I’ve finally embraced email marketing automation to stay connected with all of you.

Community Over Competition

One of the most rewarding parts of this year wasn't about software or sales—it was about people. I adopted a philosophy of supporting my friends' businesses wholeheartedly. In turn, they have shown up for me. We rise by lifting each other up, and that community spirit is what keeps me going.

The Road Ahead

With everything I’ve learned, I know there is still a long way to go. But I am genuinely enjoying this lotion bar journey. To anyone sitting on an idea, wondering if they should take the leap: Just do it. The learning curve is steep, but the view from the top of your first year is worth it.

Thank you for being part of the TariaCosmetics family! I can't wait to see what 2026 has in store for us.