Running a small business is no easy job Lately, Jan and I have been working with a lot of small businesses in Toronto to learn about their stories. Our most recent visit was with Jessye Grundlingh, the founder and owner of Make This Universe, a brand that offers DIY skincare kits based on your personal preference. When we first met Jessye through Facebook, her energy was palpable. She was excited to discuss what we do, how she can help our project, and the next steps. We arrived at her studio in the Yonge and Eglinton area, pitched a couple of lights, and here’s our conversation. Like many humble startups, Jessye is a one-person team that does ev.ver.ry.thing. From packaging design to website to marketing strategy, she’s at the helm. One striking thing about Jessye is that she’s refreshingly candid about the challenges, or like I say, she doesn’t shit sandwich bad news and the real struggles of owning a small business in Toronto. Insights in running a small business Here are a few of her insights that didn’t make it into the video, but I think you’ll love as much as I do: Jiali: So, how did you get this started financially? Jessye: Selling the shares of my previous business. So, this is a self-funded business, which created this really interesting dynamic, totally different from the previous business. For my previous business, I was waitressing and I was in school so I was working after hours, and the side hustle turned full time when I felt like I had enough clients. Whereas for this business, I needed to start making immediately. All of my startup cash went into branding, inventory, and product development. A great side effect of not having money is the DIY skincare workshops… so (this business) is currently funded through my workshops. Jiali: How are the workshops

There’s one very good reason to visit Roselle in Corktown. Ready for a head-spinning, blood-surging, spirit-warming sugar rush? Here we go.

There’s one very good reason to visit Roselle in Corktown. Ready for a head-spinning, blood-surging, spirit-warming sugar rush? Here we go.

We wanted to make the interviewing experience funner (I know, I know, not a real word but made up words are funner. Angie’s cringing off camera right now), so Jan and I created a game inspired by one of our favourite Youtube series, Hot Ones.

We can’t discuss the Distillery without talking about the arts. The Distillery Artscape building is one of several Artscape venues in the city. Artscape is a not-for-profit organization is based in Toronto which fosters the bond between creator and community.

Kensington Market's Krudar Muay Thai is one of the most intense work outs in the city. You think you're ready?