Featuring Raquel Hughes
Host: Dr. Allen Lycka
Guest: Raquel Hughes, Founder of Sparkle and Sheen
Episode Highlights
Introduction to Raquel Hughes
- Dr. Lycka introduces Raquel as a visionary entrepreneur revolutionizing the cleaning industry.
- Founder of Sparkle and Sheen, an innovative cleaning service, and multiple ventures including:
- Made for Products: An eco-conscious cleaning product line.
- Made to Learn: A training platform for entrepreneurs.
- Made to Help: A non-profit organization supporting communities.
The Beginnings of Sparkle and Sheen
- Raquel’s career pivot inspired by her grandfather’s passing and her own mental health.
- Her initial challenge to earn six figures cleaning houses:
- Year one: Made $138,000 as a solo cleaner.
- Mission: To create free time for clients by tackling tasks they disliked the most.
Scaling the Business
- Partnered with her cousin, doubling revenue in the second year ($338,000).
- Overcame challenges as her cousin was diagnosed with stage IV cancer.
- Grew her team to 8–10 employees by year three, reaching $664,000 in revenue.
Incorporating Family into the Business
- Raquel’s son joined after graduating with a business degree:
- Helped correct operational inefficiencies.
- Incorporated the business.
- Achieved $1 million in revenue within six months of incorporation.
Diversifying the Brand
- Made for Products:
- Developed eco-conscious cleaning solutions after supply chain challenges during COVID-19.
- Partnered with a local chemist in Edmonton to create sustainable, Alberta-made products.
- Launched the product line in March 2024.
- Made to Learn:
- Created a training platform with videos and resources for entrepreneurs.
- Focus on saving time and providing systems for efficiency.
- Made to Help:
- A charity offering free cleaning services for individuals in need:
- Low-income seniors, people with disabilities, and those with mental health challenges.
- Provides ongoing monthly cleaning services for eligible families.
Key Takeaways from Raquel’s Journey
- Importance of building systems and empowering team members.
- Leveraging strengths and fostering growth within teams.
- Giving back to the community:
- Raquel’s personal philosophy of sharing knowledge and helping others.
Connecting with Raquel Hughes
- Websites:
- Sparkle and Sheen
- Made for Products
- Made to Help
- Visit or Contact:
- Office: 14452 118 Avenue NW, Edmonton.
- Phone: 825-512-1277.
Special Offer for Listeners
- Free samples of Sparkle and Sheen’s top products (floor cleaner, glass cleaner, kitchen cleaner).
- Call 825-512-1277 to request a sample (postage not included).
Closing Remarks
Dr. Lycka highlights Raquel’s success as a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and community impact. Raquel is a proud member of the International Order of Fantastic Professionals (IOFP), inspiring others through her work and vision.
Don’t miss this inspiring episode! Share it with others who want to make a difference in their lives and communities.
Raquel Hughes is a visionary entrepreneur revolutionizing the cleaning industry with her innovative ventures. As the founder of Sparkle & Sheen, a premier cleaning service, and Maid for Products, an eco-conscious line of cleaning solutions, she’s setting new standards for quality and sustainability. Through initiatives like Maid to Learn and Maid to Help, Raquel empowers professionals and uplifts communities across Canada. Now a member of the International Order of Fantastic Professionals, she continues to inspire with her commitment to positive change.
Social Media:
Website: https://www.sparkleandsheen.ca/
