Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in beauty services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Stephanie Ricciardi, owner and founder of Midwest Brows & Beauty LLC., located in Noblesville, IN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a full-service spa focusing on permanent makeup services, skincare, lashes, and small/fine line tattoos. We are a small, close team of 5 women who are licensed in our specialties to provide enhancements to our client's natural beauty. We strive for continued and advanced education to continually improve our skills and bring our clients the latest techniques.
Tell us about yourself
I am the owner/founder and have worked as a bedside nurse for over a decade. I was feeling uninspired and burnt out and wanted to foster my creative side, so I decided to take a permanent makeup course with my spouse's encouragement.
I worked for two years independently before opening a storefront and hiring a team, which we built slowly and successfully. Helping these amazing women grow their craft and become confident in their skills as artists inspires me as well as providing for my family/3 children. I also provide educational classes, and helping my students find something they love to do lights a spark in me.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I feel our biggest accomplishment is developing a small business that allows our employees to be financially independent at a young age as well as have a life outside of work where they don't struggle and worry about how they will pay their bills. We are one of the first/only small spas where we have started a 401K for our employees to secure investments for their future, and that feels so amazing.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Finding work/life balance can be difficult when you are a people pleaser. Delegating is also tough for a perfectionist. I am a true empath who wants to make everyone happy, which isn't always possible. At the end of the day, you give your very best and continue to learn how to be better each day. Not everyone will love you or what you do, and that's ok!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Hire an accountant (or hire others to help you where you can)
- Pre-plan your posts for the week on social media and take intermittent breaks from them so you don't burn out.
- Have policies in place that protect your business and follow them.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://midwestbrows.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Midwestbrows
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/midwestbrowsandbeauty/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.