Meet Angel Hayes | Business Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Angel Hayes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Angel, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I am from the Westside of Atlanta, but my family originates from The Bahamas. I grew up in what would be considered a low-income area, so my access to some resources were limited. I knew from an early age that I was special and knew my potential would take me beyond what I knew growing up.

Going to college used to be a dream I thought I would never reach due to financial strains in my household. And from being accepted to multiple colleges my senior year to actually being a college graduate was my wake up call. I knew then that I could achieve whatever I set my mind and heart to. I wanted more for myself and more for my family, so despite the circumstances, I’ve worked hard to pursue whatever I would set my mind to. To have faith is to believe, unconditionally. And that’s pretty much what I’ve always lived by. I never let my circumstances determine my future.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Jilly B. Cosmetics was created in 2020 with the mission to provide the highest quality of products, all while using clean ingredients. I pride myself in only developing formulas that are vegan and cruelty-free. What sets me apart from the rest is each product I sell is manufactured by hand. I’ve created each formula with ingredients that are clean and effective.

I currently sell plumping lipglosses and semi-matte liquid lipsticks. My lip products are loved for their smoothness, hydrating ingredients, and non-sticky feel to the lips. But I don’t just sell lipgloss and lipsticks, I sell an experience. I would have to say I am most proud of the visibility my brand had gained in so little time. It’s been 6 months since launching and I’ve sold my products to individuals in multiple states, Canada, and the UK.

I became interested in the makeup industry while in undergraduate. Being a college student who did not have a lot of money, I began searching Youtube to learn how to do basic makeup looks. From there, I developed a passion and used makeup as a way to express my creativity.

When Rihanna launched Fenty Beauty, I became inspired because it had shown me that the beauty industry was evolving and that maybe I can launch my own cosmetic brand, too. I sat on the idea for about three years until having to quarantine. During quarantine, I realized I was truly unhappy with my current job as an Educator. I decided to plan my next move & resigned from my job. In May of 2020, my best friend, Jaelicia, invited me to participate in a photoshoot for her brand and doing so really motivated me to put my plan of building my own cosmetic business into action. I realized the only person who was stopping me from my dreams was myself. After months of researching, sourcing inventory, and formulating, I launched Jilly B. Cosmetics in January 2021!

It hasn’t been a smooth road, but when things feel natural to you, like it aligns and you’re passionate about it, you’ll never get tired!! I wouldn’t have it any other way. One thing I’ve learned along this journey is to use my losses as lessons and failure as my feedback.

Getting started was the hardest part for me as i sometimes struggle with self-doubt. I am definitely proud of myself for not allowing the fear of failure stop me. If I had to give advice to individuals wanting to start a business, I would say, don’t allow negative thoughts hold you back. Do it, do it scared! And don’t rush it. Take your time in the planning stages & do your research.
Everything doesn’t have to be perfect in the beginning. You will learn what works for you and your business along the way. As long as you have a solid foundation, you are well on your way!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting Atlanta. I would definitely take her to Breakfast at Barney’s for brunch and Serenapastificio for dinner. Mimosas, wine, great food, and beautiful scenery is always a good time.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to personally shoutout my lover, Montavious Spivey. He has been my number 1 fan/supporter since the very beginning. From staying up late with me while creating my business plan, to business advice, and simply giving encouraging words when needed. I would like to also shout out my closest family and friends who have been very supportive since the very beginning of my journey.

Website: www.jillybcosmetics.com

Instagram: @jillybcosmetics @litorules

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JillyBCosmetics/

Image Credits
Feature photo- Keys Photography