KAAST 22
The Business of Self-Care: KAAST 22’s Breakthrough
Carla Casler, owner of KAAST 22, launched her business with a powerful mission: to promote skin health, emotional wellness, and self-care through handmade skincare products and self-help workbooks. But starting a business from the ground up came with challenges—Carla was unsure how to navigate the legal requirements, reach her ideal audience online, and manage finances to support future growth. “I was just starting my business. I didn’t know where to start from a legal aspect. I had no local support,” she said. That changed when she connected with the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at SIU Carbondale through her mentor, Yemisi Anderson.
Through the Carbondale Accelerator Program, the SBDC helped Carla register her LLC, build out a solid business plan, and better understand her pricing structure and cost of goods. Advisors also reviewed her website’s content and design to help her reach her target audience more effectively and provided coaching to strengthen her business pitch. “SBDC has changed my LIFE. Their guidance and support is a major part of my business’ success. They walked me through the legal process step-by-step and pushed me to my next level,” Carla said.
With a stronger foundation in place, KAAST 22 has begun to grow its presence locally. Carla participated in vendor shows in Marion in April and May and was recently approved as a vendor at the Murdale Farmers Market, giving her brand valuable exposure in the community. Armed with clearer financial insight and marketing strategies, Carla feels more confident and capable in running her business. “This place has been my safe haven, both to succeed and to make mistakes. Working with the SBDC in Carbondale has given me so many opportunities to learn and grow, boosting my confidence as a business owner.”
Carla’s long-term goals include traveling locally with her products, completing additional training, and eventually growing KAAST 22 into a national brand with a physical storefront. With SBDC’s continued support, Carla is well on her way to achieving her dream of using skincare as a tool for healing, empowerment, and self-love.