Roberta Perry’s journey into entrepreneurship did not begin with a grand business plan or a long-term vision. Instead, it started with a simple personal need. She often describes herself as an accidental entrepreneur, someone who created a solution for her own problem without initially intending to build a company around it.
Roberta Perry | Owner | ScrubzBody® Skin Care Products
At the time, she was managing two freelance businesses while raising three children, leaving little room for self-care. Her skin became extremely dry, and when it reached a point where it started to bleed, she knew she had to make a change. Unsatisfied with the products available in the market, she decided to create her own sugar scrub, one that was effective, simple, and easy to use. At EliteX, we are proud to have Roberta Perry as part of the edition: The 5 Most Impactful Entrepreneurs to Watch in 2026.
What began as a personal remedy soon took a new direction with the encouragement of her late sister, Michelle. Michelle suggested that Roberta package the scrub and sell it at local house parties and craft events. Those early experiences became the foundation of what would eventually grow into ScrubzBody. The response was immediate and encouraging, with customers quickly buying out their inventory at events. This consistent demand helped Roberta realize that her small idea had the potential to become something much bigger.
Growth happens when you stay true to your values and trust your journey
At its core, Roberta’s business was built to solve a very real and relatable problem – finding time for self-care in a busy life. She understood that many people, like her, often neglect their own well-being because of packed schedules. Her product was designed to simplify self-care, offering an easy and effective solution that could fit into everyday routines. This practical approach made her brand resonate strongly with customers who were looking for both convenience and results.
In a highly competitive market, Roberta believes that what truly sets her business apart is its focus on customer service. She has always prioritized building genuine relationships with her customers, making them feel heard, valued, and understood. Rather than pushing products, she and her team take the time to understand individual needs and provide personalized solutions. This human-centered approach has helped build strong customer loyalty, something she values more than any marketing strategy. In a world increasingly driven by automation and artificial intelligence, Roberta’s emphasis on handcrafted products and one-on-one interaction has become a defining strength of her brand.
Like many entrepreneurs, Roberta faced challenges along the way, particularly when it came to defining her place in the market. In the early days, she envisioned her products being sold on a large scale through wholesale channels. However, as she spent more time engaging directly with customers, she discovered that retail and personal interactions brought her greater satisfaction and stronger results. She embraced this realization and shifted her focus accordingly. While wholesale and private labeling remain a small part of the business, her primary focus continues to be direct customer engagement, which aligns better with her values and strengths.
For Roberta, impact goes beyond financial success. She defines it as the ability to make people feel worthy and special. Through her products and interactions, she encourages individuals to embrace self-care and self-love, helping them recognize their own value. This emotional connection with customers has been one of the most powerful aspects of her work, reinforcing her belief that small actions can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
Self-care is not a luxury, it is a responsibility we owe ourselves
One of her proudest achievements is the longevity of her business. As ScrubzBody approaches its 20-year milestone in June 2026, Roberta reflects on the journey with gratitude. She considers her loyal customer base to be her greatest accomplishment, as their continued support is a testament to the trust and satisfaction she has built over the years.
Interestingly, Roberta does not actively chase trends. Instead, she focuses on consistency, ensuring that her products always deliver on their promises and that her customers are treated with care and respect. While she embraces technology in practical ways, such as designing materials, managing her website, and using tools like Photoshop AI to create visual content, she remains grounded in her belief that technology should support, not replace, the human element of business.
As a leader, Roberta believes in empowering her team. She invests in training, trusts her employees, and encourages them to share their ideas and perspectives. This collaborative environment fosters confidence and accountability, allowing her team to grow alongside the business. Her leadership style is rooted in trust and open communication, which has helped create a strong and motivated team.
During uncertain times, Roberta adopts a flexible and proactive approach. She understands the importance of adapting quickly and finding creative solutions. For example, during the shutdown period, when customers could no longer visit her store, she introduced a “Make Your Own Scrubz at Home” concept. This initiative allowed customers to continue engaging with her brand from their homes and helped the business navigate a challenging period.
Balancing profitability with purpose is another principle she values deeply. She believes in honesty, fair pricing, and giving back to the community. This balanced approach ensures that her business remains sustainable while also contributing positively to society.
Looking ahead, Roberta envisions steady and organic growth for her company. Rather than rapid expansion, her focus is on reaching more people while maintaining the quality and personal touch that define her brand. She strongly believes that even as technology and large corporations reshape the business landscape, a customer-centric, one-on-one approach will always hold lasting value.
Success comes from care, consistency, and truly listening to your customers
Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple yet powerful. She encourages them to take the leap, embrace mistakes as part of the learning process, and trust their instincts. She emphasizes the importance of listening – to customers, to mentors, and to oneself – as a key factor in building a meaningful and successful business.