By Kaliena Jo Bowen
The Entrepreneurship and Innovation Institute (ENI) provides a variety of classes to make the next generation of business leaders adaptable and creative. In ENI’s 3103 Business Model Validation class, undergraduate student, Princess Ogumgbuaja (B.I.S ’21), decided to move her hair extension service into new markets.
Currently, Ogumgbuaja is an entrepreneur and hair service provider specializing in protective styles. Her company, Dainty’s Dolls, offers hair braiding and wig services in the Atlanta area. Ogumgbuaja’s entrepreneurial spirit is driven by her love for customer service and the pursuit of non-traditional work experience.
Ogumgbuaja started Dainty’s Dolls by building her client base through working in her cousin’s salon. Through insight obtained in ENI’s courses, she learned new perspectives and the “foundations” of business. Ogumgbuaja used her network to find local graphic designers and business owners to collaborate with to establish her brand.
In response to Coronavirus, Dainty’s Dolls paused servicing its clients to adhere to state and local mandates for business operations. For now, Dainty’s Dolls will continue to take wig preorders online at: daintysdolls.setmore.com/services.
As a final project for the ENI 3103 course, Ogumgbuaja had to present a four-box business model analysis for her venture. Inspired by her clients’ hair care needs and dedication to organic solutions, the idea for a new product line for Dainty’s Dolls was born. Ogumgbuaja developed Dainty’s Drops, natural day and night hair serums that minimize shedding and dryness of the scalp.
Ogumgbuaja’s goal for Dainty’s Dolls is to reach a broader audience using online platforms and collaborations with other businesses. To do this, she plans to use social media marketing, influencers, and the Atlanta startup ecosystem to bring awareness to Dainty’s Drops.
To learn more about this and other courses offered by The Entrepreneurship and Innovation Institute, visit eni.gsu.edu/academic-programs.
