Many people struggle to find stylish, comfortable, and well-fitting headbands. Some are too tight, others slip off easily, and most lack unique designs. For Mika Bertholdo, this problem became personal when she experienced hair loss due to alopecia during pregnancy. She wanted something fashionable yet functional to cover her hair, but couldn’t find the perfect headband.
Instead of settling, she took matters into her own hands. She bought fabric, experimented with designs, and started making her own headbands.
This DIY solution turned into a full-fledged business called Ooakshell. Mika handcrafted every piece, handled packaging, and managed all marketing herself. Her dedication paid off—she built a loyal customer base with an impressive 81% return rate. However, running the business alone was exhausting. She worked 18-20 hours a day, sacrificing sleep to keep up with demand.
When Mika stepped into the Shark Tank in Season 13, she sought $150,000 for 10% equity to scale production and ease her workload. The Sharks were impressed by her $386,000 in year-to-date sales and the fact that each headband cost only $1.64 to make but sold for $35. Despite her success, the lack of a team and marketing strategy concerned some Sharks.
Ooakshell Net Worth Shark Tank Update 2025
Mika was looking for an investment of $150k in exchange for 10% equity in the company. At the time of the episode, she valued her company at $1.5 million. Mika successfully secured a deal with Emma Grede for an investment of $150k for 20% equity in the company. The investment adjusted the company’s net worth to around $750k. After the show was aired, the company experienced a good boost in exposure. As per my rough estimate, Ooakshell’s current net worth is around $3 million.
Shark(s) name | Offer & Demand | Counteroffer | Accepted? |
Emma Grede | $150,000 for 20% equity | $150,000 for 13% equity | Yes |
Lori Greiner | Out | N/A | N/A |
Kevin O’Leary | Out | N/A | N/A |
Barbara Corcoran | Out | N/A | N/A |
Mark Cuban | Out | N/A | N/A |
Mika Bertholdo Backstory + Their Initial Pitch
Mika Bertholdo’s journey with Ooakshell began out of necessity. After developing alopecia during pregnancy, she struggled with hair loss and wanted stylish yet comfortable head coverings. Disappointed by the lack of options in the market, she decided to create her own. With no formal training, she taught herself to sew and design headbands.
Starting from her home in Houston, Texas, Mika initially made headbands for herself. Friends and family loved them, encouraging her to sell them online. What began as a small side hustle quickly grew into a full-time business. She hand-painted every piece, ensuring each was unique. Her husband helped with packaging, but Mika handled everything else—production, marketing, and customer service.
By the time she appeared on Shark Tank, Ooakshell had already generated $386,000 in sales that year alone. Her profit margins were strong—each headband cost just $1.64 to make but sold for $35. Despite the financial success, Mika was overwhelmed. She worked nearly 20-hour days to keep up with orders and knew she needed help to grow further.
During her pitch, Mika asked for $150,000 for 10% equity to expand production, hire employees, and streamline operations. She emphasized her strong customer loyalty and the potential for scaling the brand. The Sharks were impressed by her dedication but questioned whether she could handle the demands of a growing business alone.
Queries + Shark’s Responses, and Final Deal
The Sharks had several questions about Ooakshell’s operations and future potential.
Mark Cuban asked how Mika managed to produce 10,000 units by herself. She admitted that she barely slept, working 18-20 hours a day to fulfill orders. While he admired her work ethic, he worried about sustainability and decided not to invest.
Lori Greiner loved the product but was concerned about Mika’s lack of a team. She felt the business needed more structure and declined the offer.
Kevin O’Leary questioned whether the headbands were patented. Mika confirmed they were not, which made him hesitant. He also thought the valuation was too high and chose not to invest.
Barbara Corcoran appreciated Mika’s creativity but felt the business was too small for her investment style. She also stepped out.
Emma Grede, however, was impressed. As a fashion entrepreneur, she saw the potential in Mika’s brand. She offered $150,000 for 20% equity, explaining that Mika needed guidance to scale properly. Mika countered with 13%, but Emma stood firm, emphasizing the value she would bring in manufacturing and retail connections.
After some thought, Mika accepted Emma’s original offer. The deal gave her the support she needed to grow Ooakshell without burning out.
Product Availability
Ooakshell’s headbands are hand-painted, adjustable, and designed for comfort. They come in various colors and patterns, catering to different styles. Since Shark Tank, Mika has expanded the product line to include sweatshirts, sweatpants, and youth apparel.
Customers can purchase Ooakshell products directly from the official website (ooakshell.com). The brand also engages with fans through a private Facebook group (over 3,000 members) and social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
What Happened To The Ooakshell After Shark Tank?
After being featured on Shark Tank, Ooakshell experienced significant growth. After the show, Ooakshell’s sales skyrocketed to over $375,000, meaning many more people started buying their products. The founder, Mika, moved out of her parents’ house and settled into a new home with her husband and children, indicating a positive personal life change.
Mika hired an assistant to help with the business, and she also secured a space for manufacturing, allowing her to produce more products. Emma Grede, an experienced figure in the fashion industry, provided Mika with guidance, helping her understand and navigate the complexities of running a fashion brand. The brand started offering more items, including clothing and accessories, which attracted even more customers.
As of today, Ooakshell is still thriving, maintaining a strong online presence and a dedicated group of fans.
Conclusion
Mika Bertholdo’s journey with Ooakshell is a story of passion and perseverance. What started as a personal need turned into a successful business. Her appearance on Shark Tank Season 13 led to a $150,000 deal with Emma Grede for 20% equity, helping her scale the brand.
Despite initial challenges, Mika’s hard work paid off. She expanded her product line, improved operations, and continues to thrive in the fashion industry. With Emma’s guidance, Ooakshell has a bright future ahead.
For those seeking unique, handmade headbands and apparel, Ooakshell remains a top choice. Mika’s story proves that with determination and the right support, even a small DIY project can become a flourishing business.

Hey, I’m Amna Habib, an undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor’s in Business Administration. Shark Tank has always been one of my favorite TV shows because it offers a unique glimpse into the world of entrepreneurship. The way entrepreneurs present innovative solutions to everyday problems aligns with my academic interests and fuels my curiosity about business strategies. Each pitch showcases creativity and strategic decision-making, which I find both insightful and inspiring. Watching the show has deepened my passion for business and motivated me to explore the world of entrepreneurship even further. Beyond business and writing, I love food, shopping, and spending time with my friends and family.