'Shark Tank' Season 15 investors slammed for 'hating' on seasonal businesses in explosive 'Holiday Special' episode
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: A Cincinnati entrepreneur scored a multi-thousand-dollar investment on a renowned business reality program.
Jasmine Hudson, a Winton Woods High School graduate, and her partners, Madia Willis and J'Aaron Merchant, presented their firm, Black Paper Party, on ABC's 'Shark Tank' on Friday, December 8.
The investors' critique of the company's nature before sealing the deal has grabbed viewers' attention.
On Facebook, fans asked, "Why would the Sharks say they aren't interested because the product is seasonal? It's a Christmas special! Christmas is seasonal! Don't have a Shark Tank Christmas Special if the Sharks aren't interested in seasonal products!"
While another user chimed in, "Agree.. Great point."
One fan also noted, "I agree. Plus this episode was just weird. Seems the sharks are in no way feeling the Christmas spirit. They've even be brutal to each other tonight."
On X, one fan asked, "If they hate seasonal businesses why have a show dedicated to seasonal businesses?"
If they hate seasonal businesses why have a show dedicated to seasonal businesses? #SharkTank pic.twitter.com/b3nd7tLPbL
— Holly Jolly Golightly 🎅♡🤶 (@2MeURPurfect) December 9, 2023
Which Shark invested in Black Paper Party?
During the episode, the three pitched investment concepts to investors Mark Cuban, Barbara Corcoran, Kevin O'Leary, Lori Greiner, and Daymond John for about 45 minutes. After considerable thought, the owners of Black Paper Party struck a deal with Barbara for a $250,000 investment and 10% ownership of their firm.
Black Paper Party has found a footing in the market since its launch
Even before appearing on 'Shark Tank', Black Paper Party had established a significant market presence, with several of their goods constantly selling out on their website.
The brand's cheap pricing approach adds to its attraction, with $5 gift wrapping paper and a $15 three-pack gift bag set.
Furthermore, all of their decorations are priced around $20. These low prices not only make their products more accessible but also demonstrate their keen awareness of market demands and ability to address those needs with quality and affordability.
All of their goods are available online at BlackPaperParty.com and in-store at Walmart, Macy's, Target, CVS, Dollar General, and Family Dollar. Prices range from $5 to $75, with over 200 products available.
Black Paper Party partnered with major celebrities and brands before 'Shark Tank'
While still in its early stages, Black Paper Party has made significant progress as a corporation.
The company's audacious purpose and distinct niche have piqued the interest of media outlets such as Ebony, 'The Kelly Clarkson Show', 'Today', BuzzFeed, Black Enterprise, Women's Wear Daily, Bloomberg, and many more.
Perhaps more astounding are the numerous large businesses, events, and celebrities that have contributed to the Black Paper Party's cause.
In late 2021, the firm was one of numerous Black-owned companies featured in the ByBlack Bazaar pop-up marketplace in Los Angeles, a certification and directory event curated by American Express and 'Insecure' actress Issa Rae.
The following year, Black Paper was awarded a $100,000 business grant by The Workshop at Macy's Pitch Competition.
Recently, the team announced a new partnership with Walmart, which will result in a carefully selected line of fan-favorite Christmas goods hitting store shelves.
'Shark Tank' Season 15 airs on Fridays on ABC at 8 pm ET.
For those who miss the episode, it will be available on demand the following day and on Hulu. Additionally, viewers can explore past seasons and episodes on Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.