Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in beauty and cosmetics but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jessica Inhofe, Founder of Painted by Jess, located in Indianapolis, IN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am in the business of helping humans realize their most fabulous selves for their most special days! That moment when I hand a client or bride the mirror for the first time - I LIVE for that!
Tell us about yourself
I first got my degree in Entrepreneurial Management at Ball State University in 2013. I then went to the Aveda Fredric's Institute to obtain my cosmetology license and have done makeup professionally since 2014. I started out as a hairstylist and makeup artist but found that makeup was my true calling. I have since dedicated all of my professional efforts to perfecting my craft with airbrush pigment as my medium and the beautiful faces of my clients as canvases!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Being named the top Indianapolis Makeup Artist by WeddingRule.com for 2021!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing about your passion also being your business is that it becomes an obsession, which can be good or bad. I LOVE makeup and could literally spend hours cleaning and organizing my kit. For me, it's a very positive obsession!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Find your niche and perfect it. Don't be shy to own that expertise.
- Do work free of charge sometimes. I have done makeup for a handful of styled shoots, and I can tell you- those photos are my favorites in my portfolio. YOU, the professional, get to have more input and flex your skills in these situations, and that always shines through!
- Always work to become more efficient. I have spent hours meticulously maintaining and updating my inventory and processes- even if all of that only truly saves me 5 minutes per application. When I have a bridal party with an average of 6 applications- I have just saved myself and my bride 30 minutes of valuable time on her wedding day! This also translates to maintaining your contracts, website, social media, communication templates, scheduling, etc.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://paintedbyjessica.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/airbrushMUAjess
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_paintedbyjess/
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.
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