Intro

Some of the oldest ways to make money are still some of the most effective.

Long before online businesses and digital products, people made money by simply putting products in front of people and selling them. Today, that same concept exists in the form of vendor events—and it’s still one of the most powerful ways to generate income.

In this episode of The Side Hustler’s Society, Elijah Bilel sits down with entrepreneur Isa Jacqueline to break down how to build a product-based business and consistently make money both online and offline.

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Intro to Isa Jacqueline (It’s Butter Baby)

• Founder of It’s Butter Baby, a natural skincare brand specializing in shea butter products  
• Over 15 years of experience in business and self-employment
• Built a loyal customer base through vendor events, word-of-mouth, and product quality
• Offers over 60+ shea butter variations using natural ingredients sourced globally
• Focuses on holistic skincare solutions for issues like eczema, blemishes, and dry skin
• Known for strong customer relationships and repeat business
• Website: https://itsbutterbaby.com/ 

Episode Overview

This episode breaks down how a simple idea—selling products—can evolve into a long-term, sustainable business.

Elijah introduces the concept of vendor events as one of the oldest forms of entrepreneurship, dating back to ancient marketplaces where merchants sold goods in high-traffic areas.  

Isa Jacqueline’s journey reflects that same model—just modernized.

She shares how It’s Butter Baby wasn’t originally planned as a business. Instead, it started organically after years of working in corporate roles where she felt stuck and unable to grow.

After seeking change, she unexpectedly found herself building a product that people genuinely loved—and that changed everything.

Elijah Bilel connects this to a bigger idea:
👉 Sometimes your business doesn’t start with a plan—it starts with a problem and evolves through action.

Listen to the Episode

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Quick Takeaways

• Elijah emphasizes that vendor-style selling is one of the oldest and most effective business models
• Isa Jacqueline built her business through both online and offline sales channels
• Product-based businesses can start organically without a clear initial plan
• Elijah Bilel highlights that taking action often leads to unexpected opportunities
• Vendor events can be highly profitable if chosen strategically
• Word-of-mouth marketing is still one of the most powerful growth tools
• Customer feedback can directly shape your product line
• Quality products lead to repeat customers and long-term success
• You should never rely on just one income channel
• Business growth comes with phases—just like a relationship

How She Built a Product-Based Business

1. Started Without a Perfect Plan

Isa didn’t start with a fully mapped-out business.

Instead, It’s Butter Baby came from:

• A desire for change
• A willingness to try something new
• Letting the process unfold over time

2. Focused on Product Quality First

One of the biggest reasons for her success:

👉 The product works

She uses:

• Natural ingredients
• Globally sourced shea butter
• No chemical-based additives

This creates a product that:

• Solves real problems
• Builds trust with customers
• Generates repeat business

3. Built Through Vendor Events

Vendor events became a major growth driver.

Isa explains that success comes from:

• Choosing the right events
• Understanding your audience
• Positioning your product correctly

She also highlights something many beginners overlook:

👉 Sometimes you have to pay to be at events—but the return can be worth it if done right

4. Sell Everywhere, Not Just One Place

A key strategy from the episode:

👉 Don’t rely on one income stream

Isa sells:

• Online through her website
• At vendor events
• At private events (weddings, parties, etc.)
• Through direct customer relationships

This diversification creates stability and growth.

5. Let Customers Shape the Business

One of the most unique aspects of her brand:

👉 Customers help create the products

Isa listens to:

• Customer requests
• Preferred scents
• Feedback on performance

This led to:

• 60+ product variations
• Strong customer loyalty
• A community-driven brand

Key Lessons from the Episode

1. Your Business Will Evolve Over Time

Isa compares building a business to a relationship:

• It starts exciting
• You learn as you go
• You face challenges
• You grow stronger over time

This is a realistic look at entrepreneurship that many people don’t talk about.

2. Word of Mouth Is Still King

One of the biggest drivers of her success:

👉 Happy customers tell other people

This leads to:

• Organic growth
• Lower marketing costs
• Stronger brand trust

3. Go Where the People Are

Instead of waiting for customers to find you:

👉 Put your product in front of them

This is why vendor events work so well:

• High traffic
• Immediate feedback
• Direct sales opportunities

Who This Episode Is For

• People interested in starting a product-based business
• Entrepreneurs looking to sell at vendor events
• Anyone wanting to build a physical or natural product brand
• Side hustlers exploring offline income opportunities

Key Topics Covered

• How Elijah Bilel approaches product-based businesses
• Building a brand like It’s Butter Baby
• Vendor event strategies
• Customer-driven product development
• Creating multiple income streams

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