Introduction

 

In our desire to feel and look our best, we often find ourselves tempted by the glamorous world of fragrances, but in this journey, however, we sometimes end up overspend on imported cosmetics, hurting our wallets. This is a challenge faced by many in Nepal, where imported beauty products are often beyond the reach of the average consumer. Recognizing this gap, Call Me Aroma, an emerging startup with a passion for captivating fragrances, has stepped up to be your fragrance guide.

 

As of January 2023, Nepal has imported approximately $118.37 million USD worth of cosmetics, including essential oils and toiletries. Call Me Aroma has embarked on a journey to claim a pie of this sizable market. Their vision extends beyond merely being a “Made in Nepal” brand as they pledge to create eco-friendly and skin-friendly products that are uniquely their own. And the result? A long-lasting solid perfume that provides gentle care for your skin. These perfumes, crafted from nature’s pure fragrances, leave no harm in their wake, reducing the release of harmful VOCs and helping keep the air clean. It’s more than just a business for the Call Me Aroma team; it’s a passion project, a personal commitment.

 

                                                                                                                                   Solid Perfume- Product / Call Me Aroma

 

Diverse and Dedicated Team

The strength of Call Me Aroma lies in its diverse and dedicated team. This team is the secret sauce behind the venture infusing beauty into their products. Aman Shrestha, with a background in IT, spearheads the engaging and expansive social media presence. Ojas Sapkota, the business brain focusing on sustainable growth trajectory, manages customer relations, marketing, and overall company operations. Maria Sunam, a Computer Engineering student, is the design guru, ensuring that the products not only smell amazing but also look visually appealing, leaving a lasting impression. Swikar Koirala, studying Mechanical Engineering, plays a pivotal role in production management, ensuring high-quality, long-lasting products.

 

To sum up, the promise of a variety of fragrances adds extra points to “Call Me Aroma’s” team and the product line. It promises a bright future due to its team’s diverse skill sets, experience, and dedication to consistent improvement. They are very competitive with their locally made, diverse, unique, environment-friendly, and quality products winning people’s hearts.

 

Initial Challenges of the Team

Like most student-led startups, Call Me Aroma encountered its fair share of challenges in the beginning. While the idea was born from knowledge gained through social platforms and research, translating it into reality was no easy feat. The team invested their own resources to experiment with various fragrances, seeking feedback from their inner circle. However, limited funds hindered their ability to follow up on feedback and sustain experimentation. They also lacked a professional network that could provide essential guidance. The absence of mentorship began to erode their confidence in the prospects of a successful launch.

 

Fortunately, they stumbled upon PSV’s funding program, a turning point in their journey. They wasted no time securing the funding and leveraging the program’s resources. This strategic move enabled them to expand their network, gather necessary resources, and receive invaluable guidance. Their relentless pursuit of knowledge and feedback led to product refinement and connections within the business world. Call Me Aroma’s journey exemplifies how determination, education, and strategic participation can help student entrepreneurs overcome initial obstacles and build promising startups.

 

Growth and PSV

Call Me Aroma’s diverse and passionate team had already captured the attention of PSV. Collaboration with PSV marked a significant turning point in their journey toward growth. PSV’s training programs empowered them to hone their startup, identify and address problems, and stay committed to finding solutions. During their time in the training program, the team benefited from exceptional mentors who provided valuable insights and guidance, particularly in areas where the team lacked expertise. These mentors served as a compass, steering them in the right direction on their path to success.

 

PSV’s primary program, which provided the necessary funds for their initial steps, allowed the team to continue experimenting with different fragrances. This funding enabled them to expand their product range, meeting market demands and establishing themselves as a recognizable brand in Nepal’s perfume market. This illustrates how strategic financial backing can empower startups to push the boundaries of success and realize their vision.

 

Additionally, the team leveraged networking opportunities within and outside PSV. They built relationships with industry professionals, potential collaborators, and fellow entrepreneurs. Through strategies such as boosting social media presence and participating in mall showcase markets, they enhanced their brand’s visibility and popularity. This ability to connect with a wider audience and receive rapid feedback played a pivotal role in their initial sales success.

 

Future “Call Me Aroma”

 

With their unwavering dedication, Call Me Aroma has exciting plans for the future. They are committed to continually adding fragrances based on customer preferences, expanding their range to include exciting scents like chocolate and peach. Soon, these fragrances will be just a doorstep away, as the team focuses on online sales and plans to enter the local market.

 

Their journey with PSV has equipped them with essential skills and imparted valuable lessons. The team now stands ready to ascend to the next level of their entrepreneurial journey. They understand the significance of professional guidance and mentorship, especially from organizations like PSV, which provide insights, industry knowledge, funding, and relevant networks. Call Me Aroma’s future is indeed fragrant with success.