Like many restless college roommates, Jamee Kunichika and Sherilyn Luke wanted a business to call their own. Instead of just dreaming about it, they took action.
Having endured extreme highs and lows, they are now enjoying the sweet smell of success. Together they have attained their dreams with POOF, a liquid toilet odor eliminator.
After spending a year researching their idea, the pair launched POOF in 2005. As weekend entrepreneurs, Kunichika and Luke lead interesting lives managing full-time jobs and Poofdrops.com in their spare time. Here’s a snapshot of how POOF got its start and the key resource that automated their business.
Why did you decide to start this particular business?
POOF: A Japanese liquid toilet odor deodorizer intrigued us. It was a new concept, and the only product on the market was packaged and written in Japanese. It was not cute, and the smell was not nice. We knew we could do it better! And the cost of living in Hawaii was too high so we knew that we had to supplement our income.
What is your average yearly income for POOF?
POOF: We are making $40,000 to $50,000 from our business. Which is good, since it’s only a part-time gig.
What resources were most helpful to you when you were starting your business?
POOF: Being able to utilize Shipwire, a one-stop warehouse and fulfillment shop, has freed up a lot of time and energy for us. With just a couple of clicks on the Shipwire website, fulfillment to our vendors is processed, and we never have to worry! Shipwire has been such a key resource for us from the moment we started our business to this day.
What ways have you found to be most effective in marketing your product or service to get sales?
POOF: Trade shows, blogs, sales reps, press releases and word of mouth.
How do you juggle your full-time jobs and your business?
POOF: We both see ourselves as part-time entrepreneurs and spend 20 hours each week on our business.
Luke: In addition to my full-time job, I am a mom/wife/entrepreneur/photographer. Finding a work/life balance is key!
Kunichika: I work full-time and I am an entrepreneur/program manager for pro bono program/caretaker of my mother – assisting father. Take it one task at a time! Believe anything is possible!
What is unique about your business that gives it an edge over your competitors?
POOF: Appealing packaging, and it has a unique, fresh scent. Unlike other bathroom deodorizers, Poof gives anonymity to its user because it’s small size fits in a purse or the palm of your hand. We are a small business so we are able to concentrate all of our efforts on our one product.
How long did it take before your business became profitable?
POOF: We both invested $25,000 each and then took a loan of $50,000 from the SBA. We received guidance from the Small Business Development Center and were able to receive our SBA loan after submitting a sound business plan. As of July 2007, we no longer had to pay our SBA loan monthly payments out of pocket.
Has the media picked up on your story?
POOF: We have seen that word of mouth and press releases are a good way to get attention. We had local media feature our business story and one national media picked our product for review, which was great!
Did you need to have a certain mindset to achieve success?
POOF: Definitely! Never giving up! Believing in our product and our partnership! Generally, we are positive people but there were times during our venture when we experienced extra low points. However, we always had one another to lift each other’s spirits to keep moving forward.
Surely you have a dream that you are contemplating. We would love it if you would take a moment to share your idea or business that you have launched with us. There are no small ideas, only small minds.
It’s never too late to get started. In fact, Jamee and Sherilyn were in college about a decade ago when they began brainstorming about businesses they could start. Their dream may have been on the back burner but they never abandoned it. Finally, 3 years ago they figured out what they wanted to do and started the research and development for Poof. So what are you waiting for?
This entry was posted on Monday, November 26th, 2007 at 4:19 pm and is filed under Online Business, Work, Starting a Business, Work at Home Mom, Growing a Business, Women in Business. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
41 Responses to “Dorm Was Incubator For Money-Making Side Biz”
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November 27th, 2007 at 8:59 am
I love reading stories like this. They started out small. And they had such a simple concept, too. I also think they have a real honest to goodness passion for their business. All their marketing and advertising came from blogs and local papers… It’s a great story. Thanks for sharing!
November 27th, 2007 at 8:26 pm
[…] Weekend.entrepreneur.com: Like many restless college roommates, Jamee Kunichika and Sherilyn Luke wanted a business to call their own. Instead of just dreaming about it, they took action. […]
November 27th, 2007 at 11:49 pm
This is such an inspiring story. I admire these women and hope to one day be as successful in an exciting business venture like they have. They seem so committed to their business and partnership while being able to balance a normal life. That is amazing!!!
November 27th, 2007 at 11:57 pm
Its a good feeling leaving the restroom without being worried or embarassed by what may have been left behind. If you know what I mean. You go girls! Perfect product for men and woman alike. To come this far in such a short amount of time is totally AMAZING! Keep up the good work!
November 28th, 2007 at 1:37 am
Not only is this an inspiring venture but what an awesome product they’ve produced. What I thought would be a product I’d personally use, it has become a favorite of my entire family! I’m so proud of these two girls from Hawaii for showing the rest of the world that although we are a small state, we produce top quality entrepreneurs! Keep your dream alive, Jamee and Sherilyn, all of Hawaii is proud of you!
November 28th, 2007 at 2:12 am
I have personally used Poof drops and it is amazing! I no longer have to anticipate someone walking into the bathroom and being “surprised” at the smell. Ever since I discovered Poof drops, I do not go anywhere without it. I can carry it in my pocket or purse since it is so small and discrete. Once you try Poof drops, trust me, you will always carry it with you and wish everyone would too! I wish Sherilyn Luke and Jamee Kunichika the best of luck in their business! I know it will be success!
November 28th, 2007 at 2:18 am
Poof is the best toilet odor deodorizer on the market! It works wonderfully and comes in a discreet yet attractive bottle. I keep a bottle with me at all times!
November 28th, 2007 at 6:01 am
As a retailer of the Poof product, we have seen great success. Our customers know this product works. I’ve tried it and I know it works. Jamee and Sherilyn have been a pleasure to work with and have provided better customer support than many of my “full-time” suppliers.
November 28th, 2007 at 10:55 am
You never know where or when you’ll have a good business idea. For the entrepreneurs out there, you should always be ready for an opportunity, you never know where or when it’ll hit you. Both Yahoo! and Google started off as projects by college “kids.” In some universities there are contests for entrepreneurs as well, it’s probably one the best places to find not only a business idea, but your business partner as well!
November 28th, 2007 at 11:17 am
I’ve tried this product and it works great, especially at the workplace public restroom where you really want to be discreet. I admire these two women who didn’t just dream about a business but went out and created a successful one.
November 28th, 2007 at 11:28 am
I have been using this product for the past year and have given it to friends and family. My family can’t find this in the stores on the Mainland so I mail them to family members. It is great in the home, office and just to carry around with you. I have tried other brands but this is the best by far.
November 28th, 2007 at 11:59 am
I have never been more excited to use a toilet deodorizer until I used Poof. It works wonderfully. I know that Poof will be a great succuss. Try it! You will be hooked! I am so happy for Jamee and Sheri.
November 28th, 2007 at 12:11 pm
Wow! Great success story!
POOF is perfect for the Holidays when you really have to do your business at your in-laws’ house. You wouldn’t want to leave the wrong impression. When are you coming out with tutti-fruitty?
November 28th, 2007 at 12:26 pm
I have worked with Sheri for the last several years, and followed the life of POOF from the beginning. I have learned so much from her entrepreneurial spirit - using ideas and hard work to create opportunities. POOF is in our bathroom and works great - long live POOF!
November 28th, 2007 at 1:00 pm
Ideas come and go. Jamee and Sherilyn took action and made investments. I respect that kind of heart and guts. I haven’t tried the product but I plan on purchasing some soon.
November 28th, 2007 at 1:22 pm
Poof! is a great product! I have one in each of my bathrooms at home and I never forget to take it with me on trips when I am sharing a hotel room with friends. This was a great business idea!
November 28th, 2007 at 2:02 pm
I worked with Sheri for 3 years and I remember the day when she said she was going to develop POOF. Sheri is incredibly enthusiastic about the product and demonstrates the characteristics of a true entrepreneur. POOF is a terrific product! I have one in my bathroom and carry one in my purse everywhere I go. I don’t know what I would do without it!
November 28th, 2007 at 4:15 pm
I have been using Poof for over a year and this product is wonderful. It smells great, looks good, and it is discreet. I no longer have to worry about being embarassed when visiting the restroom. I have also given Poof as Christmas gifts to both men and women. It is a perfect stocking stuffer. I give much credit to these two ladies for not only having a great product, but also for taking action on their dream! Congratulations to both of them on their success!
November 28th, 2007 at 4:46 pm
I’ve personally used this product several times and I can’t express how much embarrassment it saved me. I’m so proud of the both of you for following your dreams. Keep up the good work!
November 28th, 2007 at 4:50 pm
I really love this product! I like the variety of fragrances that do more than just mask the odor. But, what I really think sets it a part from any other type of toilet drops is it’s cute, discreet packaging. No one would ever suspect what it’s function is, and I think that’s great, especially for women.
November 28th, 2007 at 6:13 pm
Sherry and Jamee are really on to something here. When I make a stinky Poof makes it go away. Who could ask for anything more!
November 28th, 2007 at 6:16 pm
I love POOF! It’s in my bathroom and people that come over comment on how great it is!
November 28th, 2007 at 6:41 pm
POOF! The first time I got it, I laughed. Then I tried it. Now it’s the first thing I think of when I walk into a stall. Sheri’s enthusiasm about this product is incredible, and rightfully so. She’s worked hard, and yet effectively to make this venture a success.
November 28th, 2007 at 6:42 pm
POOF is a great product. It is discreet and it works!! I have a bottle in each bathroom.
November 28th, 2007 at 6:58 pm
What an inspiring story. Makes me want to open up my own business! Poof is absolutely the best toilet odor deodorizer I have ever used! On top of that, it’s small enough to put in my purse and take it with me wherever I go or I can even use it at home and it’s not so noticeable on the purpose of the product to help reduce any embarassing moments. Jamee Kunichika and Sherilyn Luke are absolutely amazing and I look up to people who have entrepreneurial spirit and no matter how challenging it seems, they still make it happen. Completely agree with Jamee on believing anything is possible and to take it one step at a time to reach your goals and to not give up.
November 28th, 2007 at 7:25 pm
I feel that “Poof” is an excellent product, and I speak on behalf of my entire family. Not only does the product work like it says it does, the different fragrances that you can choose from appeal to all ages. I have given it as Christmas gifts with a roll of toilet paper, and people were so grateful! It is amazing how Jamee and Sheri manage to keep their full-time jobs and run this business on the side! Congratulations you guys-I’m so proud of you! Shannon
November 28th, 2007 at 7:56 pm
Poof is a wonderful product! I work in an office with about twenty women and we all share a restroom. It can sometimes be embarassing but with Poof I never have to worry. Thank you Jamee and Sheri for creating a product that EVERYONE should carry.
November 28th, 2007 at 8:22 pm
I was introduced to “Poof” at the LA Gift Show earlier this year. I was impressed with the product. Being a young woman who aspires to have a succesful business, I’m glad to see Sherilyn and Jamee succeed. It is a story like this that keeps me motivated and hopeful of my own company. Thank you Sherilyn and Jamee.
November 28th, 2007 at 10:34 pm
What a great product. Way to go Jamee and Sheri!
November 28th, 2007 at 10:57 pm
Only 26 more days until Christmas! At only $10 each, Poof is the perfect stocking stuffer (www.poofdrops.com). I bought it for all my friends and family last year, and now they’re asking for it again this year! It’s discrete and it works. It smells way better than those stinky pine forest/ammonia Japanese drops. The Japanese Mint scent is refreshing, and Tuscan Orange smells like Jamba Juice — and the best part, no one smells the poo! These two women are inspirational and creative - they are living the dream. Here’s wishing you both continued success! Here’s wishing the rest of you no more smelly, embarrassing poo!
November 28th, 2007 at 11:04 pm
Sheri and Jamee are shining examples of the entrepreneurial spirit. They don’t get scared off by one or two set backs - they keep the big picture in mind, and keep moving forward. They willingly share their success stories and their challenges with others — inspiring and mentoring them to become entrepreneurs themselves. I am one of those people who their positive attitude and energetic drive has rubbed off on. I’ve been flying independent with no regrets for a year now thanks to their support and encouragement!
November 28th, 2007 at 11:07 pm
My friends and family thank you — for protecting them from my stink. Rock on!
November 28th, 2007 at 11:10 pm
I ordered poof online, and it was so simple. I got great customer service — a fundamental for entrepreneurs who are going to make it BIG! You go girls!
November 29th, 2007 at 2:22 am
POOF is perfect for stinky POOP! My family loves Mexican food but we totally end up paying the price (if you know what I mean). With POOF, I can eat as many tacos as I want without the embarassment of wondering what those around me are thinking. I am now a confident public bathroom patron! Way to go, Ms Luke and Ms Kunichika! You girls are rockstars!
November 30th, 2007 at 4:34 pm
Discrete, easy, convenient. Travels well! Small bottle lasts almost forever! Handy around the house too. Sprays kill the environment and leave a heavy scent after. Poof is so much better.
December 1st, 2007 at 9:45 am
This is a great story of two individuals chasing their dreams and doing it with “Passion”! We’ve known Sheri and Jamee for almost 10 years, and have always been impressed by their “can do” attitude. As mentioned in the article, both of them have a full plate - career and personally, yet they are still able to focus themselves in producing and distributing a product that is more user friendly than their “clorox” smelling competitors. Poof! is an awesome product that can be used by everyone!
December 2nd, 2007 at 1:46 am
I carry POOF with me and also have it in my guest restroom - it is great! Congratulations to Jamee and Sheri for their entrepreneurial spirit and their tenacity! I love these success stories!
December 6th, 2007 at 5:29 pm
We need more women entrepreneurs like these two in the world! Instead of just thinking about doing something, they worked hard to make it happen. And my bathroom thanks them. Rock on!
December 8th, 2007 at 1:05 am
POOF is NO DOUBT the best toilet odor deodorizer in the market… If you haven’t tried it yet, what are you waiting for? Go to: www.poofdrops.com.
April 14th, 2008 at 6:57 pm
Interesting stories like these gives me the empowerment necessary to keep my focus strong.
June 9th, 2008 at 11:44 am
[…] Weekend Entrepreneur: Like many restless college roommates, Jamee Kunichika and Sherilyn Luke wanted a business to call their own. Instead of just dreaming about it, they took action. […]