211. Empowering Black Voices in the Fragrance World with Exalté Parfum Founder Funmi Monet

So Ambitious

Today, we are joined by Funmi Monet, the brilliant mind behind Exalté Parfum, a groundbreaking perfume brand that has been making waves in the luxury perfume space. In this episode, Funmi shares her insights on navigating the fragrance industry, from the inception of her brand to its meteoric rise in the social media sphere. With a keen focus on community building and content creation, Funmi shares the essence of confidently crafting content that resonates with authenticity and ultimately builds a loyal community. She also dives into the intricate science of fragrances, highlighting their profound psychological impacts and the art of curating a personalized fragrance wardrobe for various occasions.

Funmi emphasizes the importance of breaking barriers, particularly as a Black woman in the luxury fragrance space. She shares invaluable insights into pricing products based on their worth, not succumbing to external criticism, and staying steadfast in pursuing one's ambitious vision. Funmi Monet's story is an inspiring testament to the power of having the audacity to dream big for yourself and risking your reputation in the name of staying true to your vision.

KEY POINTS

[1:25] - Funmi Monet’s content creation and community building journey

[3:14] - Finding your content comfort zone: How to create content confidently

[5:14] - The science of fragrance and its psychological impacts

[7:05] - Building your fragrance wardrobe: How to craft essential scents for every occasion

[10:41] - How to master the subtle art of fragrance in business relationships

[16:37] - Breaking barriers as a Black women in the luxury fragrance space

[20:10] - Value over voices: How to price yourself based on worth, not critics

[24:50] - What success looks like for Funmi Monet and her brand

[27:09] - Finding your North Star and trusting your vision despite the doubters

[30:24] - Funmi on risking your reputation in pursuit of your ambitious vision

QUOTABLES

“No one else has to see your vision but yourself.” - Funmi Monet

“You don't have to shrink yourself because of what people think you should do to fit an audience they think that you deserve.’ - Funmi Monet

GUEST RESOURCES

Funmi Monet | Shop Exalté

IG | @funmimonet

TikTok |/@funmimonet

YouTube | @funmimonet

RESOURCES

[APPLICATIONS OPEN!] | Are you building a high growth business in tech healthcare, AI, media entertainment, or consumer goods and services? If so, we'd like to help you scale. Don't miss your chance to win $1 million, capital coaching, and access to an amazing community of diverse innovators! Apply for the 2024 Black Ambition Prize competition now

Felecia Hatcher

IG | @feleciahatcher

Black Ambition

IG | @blackambitionprize

So Ambitious is produced by EPYC Media