Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in cosmetics but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Danielle Houston, founder of The Stage Beauty Company, a full-service makeup line specializing in customized makeup kits for performers made in Toronto, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

We are The Stage Beauty Company, and we are a full-service makeup line specializing in customized makeup kits for performers! We are made in Canada, cruelty-free, hypoallergenic, allergy-tested, fragrance and paraben-free. Our products are bold, vibrant, and long-lasting as they were made for dancers, by dancers.

We work with teams from beginning to end to create their makeup look, build custom kits, provide an easy online ordering system, step-by-step tutorials, and more. We LOVE providing that finishing touch before a performer steps on stage.

Tell us about yourself

Stage Beauty Co. was a brewing business dream for seven years before I officially took the plunge. The initial idea of SBC came when I was dancing at my studio and knew there had to be a better system for team makeup. It came to the point that I needed to act on my dream or let it go, and I decided to act. The mantra, 'if not now, when?' really pushed me forward towards my dreams and still guides my decisions to take risks and be curious daily.

Stage Beauty Co. is more than a beauty brand for dancers. It's an encouraging and uplifting community of dreamers chasing after their dreams and empowering others to do the same.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

For me, it’s been a huge accomplishment to build a small, amazing team to work alongside. I feel proud to be creating jobs and helping folks build their careers. I’m excited for our team to continue to grow and to develop a strong workplace culture.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

The biggest challenge that comes with being a business owner for me was adapting to the true role of being a “professional problem solver.” Learning to flow from one problem to the next and solving and adapting with grace has been a key piece of my evolution as a CEO. Learning to enjoy the journey rather than resist is essential when you realize the challenges, the hardships, the failures, and triumphs are all just a part of it. So you might as well start enjoying the ride.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Done is better than perfect.
  2. Trust your gut.
  3. Let your failure fuel you.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://stagebeauty.co/
Instagram: @stagebeautyco


If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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