Kelley Higney is the founder of Bug Bite Thing, partnering alongside her mother, Ellen McAlister. Bug Bite Thing is an easy-to-use suction tool that painlessly and effectively extracts insect saliva/venom from under the skin to eliminate itching, stinging and swelling from bug bites and stings. The product is chemical-free, kid-friendly, and reusable. Bug Bite Thing is Amazon’s #1 selling product for insect bite relief, available on the company’s website, and at select retailers.

Can you tell our readers about your background?

For over fifteen years, I worked for A.C. Kerman, my family’s international export and distribution business. During that time, I worked alongside my mother, Ellen McAlister. I excelled at business development and marketing, which contributed to the company's overall growth. This is where I learned many lessons from my mother and my grandmother that I credit to my success as an entrepreneur.

What inspired you to start your business?

For as long as I can remember, I have been a “mosquito magnet.” Unfortunately, my daughter inherited my mosquito-attracting blood, and living in South Florida didn’t help. I tried everything to relieve the discomfort: creams, ice, dryer sheets, hot spoons, you name it, none of the “remedies” seemed to lessen the itch for more than a few moments.

 I investigated how other countries combat insect bites and came across a little-known tool that uses suction to eliminate the irritant rather than applying creams or harsh chemicals. I took a chance on it and surprisingly, it worked! This tool was a game-changer that provided me and my daughter with instant relief while also lessening the long-term effects of the bite. I couldn’t believe I finally had a way to take the suffering away.

I knew I had to make this product readily available to anyone who suffers from bug bites and stings.  I branded the tool, “Bug Bite Thing.” Since I have become a “mom on a mission” to offer others the same life-changing relief that my family and I were receiving.

Where is your business based?

We are based in Port St. Lucie, Florida.

How did you start your business? What were the first steps you took?

I started my business locally and then partnered with my mother, Ellen McAlister. I started small and operated the business out of my garage. We tapped into our community’s resources and reached out to our local Chamber of Commerce, local news stations, and even other local female entrepreneurs. I had members of the community test Bug Bite Thing and provide feedback, and we watched the demand for Bug Bite Thing start to grow quickly.

What has been the most effective way of raising awareness for your business?

Word of mouth has played a huge factor in spreading the word about Bug Bite Thing. We realized this early on.  We designed our marketing plan and efforts around showcasing feedback from our current customers on the effectiveness of the product. And of course, appearing on ABC’s ‘Shark Tank’ was a huge opportunity for us. Bug Bite Thing grabbed the attention of one of the casting producers through social media, who then encouraged my mother and me to audition. We ended up receiving offers from all of the Sharks and accepted an offer from Lori Greiner.

What have been your biggest challenges and how did you overcome them?

Learning how to scale our business to keep up with its rapid growth has definitely been a challenge. As an entrepreneur, I’m constantly thinking ten steps ahead. At the same time, I have to realize where we are now, and how to scale the company. We are constantly implementing new procedures, streamlining processes, and making new hires to move the company forward.

How do you stay focused?

My work environment consists of classical music playing on repeat and lavender essential oils diffusing in my office! Having the right team is also essential and helps me focus and prioritize my work. By listening to others' ideas, I can come up with creative solutions with my team.

How do you differentiate your business from the competition?

There is nothing else like Bug Bite Thing on the market. Because it is unlike other insect bite relief products, we had to figure out how to market the product to customers. While most insect bite relief products are a topical cream or spray and contain chemicals, Bug Bite Thing only uses suction and is completely chemical-free. 

What has been your most effective marketing strategy to grow your business?

Focusing on our customer’s experience. We have always focused on making sure our customers are satisfied with the Bug Bite Thing, as well as their entire experience with our brand. We always want our customers to feel like they are part of the journey, and in turn, many of them want to support our brand and mission. They become our biggest cheerleaders.

What's your best piece of advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs?

My advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs is to set up the proper infrastructure early on, hire the right people, and learn to delegate. Know your business inside and out, but as you grow, realize that you can’t continue to “do it all” yourself.

What's your favorite app, blog, and book? Why?

Lori Greiner’s book, Invent it, Sell it, Bank it: Make Your Million-Dollar Idea Into a Reality. I greatly respect Lori’s experience as an investor, entrepreneur, and mentor. Her advice is invaluable.

What's your favorite business tool or resource? Why?

I live in Google Analytics. It is a great resource for me to ‘take the pulse’ of my company throughout the day. It helps me understand what adjustments need to be made to our marketing strategy, customer service, and sales channels.

Who is your business role model? Why?

My mother. She is a successful, second-generation entrepreneur who has taught me almost everything I know. She’s my sounding board on a personal and professional level. I trust her implicitly and respect and value her insight and experience.

What is your beauty routine? What are some of your favorite products?

I wear very light make-up and my routine is very simple. One of my favorite brands is Prime & Pure. Their products are eco-friendly and safe. I love their lip gloss and my daughters like their nail polish.

How do you balance work and life?

Working with my mother and husband, it is important to create time together when we don’t discuss work. Every Friday night we have a family dinner together and we get a chance to catch up, relax, and enjoy each other’s company. I also make it a point to set aside time for myself for self-care and for quality time with my daughters.

What’s your favorite way to decompress?

Spending time with my family and dedicating time where I am not focused on work. I also have a healthy video game competition going with my husband; our current favorite game is ‘Overcooked!’ This helps us “shut our brains off” and have fun together.

What do you have planned for the next six months?

Our main initiative for the next six months is to continue to educate the U.S. market on our product and increase Bug Bite Thing’s brand recognition. We are also streamlining our global initiatives to make Bug Bite Thing a product that is known worldwide.

How can our readers connect with you?

Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter: @bugbitething