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

Hi Haley, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
When I decided to start my own business I had a vision in mind to build my life and career exactly how I wanted to. I wanted to make my own hours and build my own personal and professional relationships with my clients. In esthetics it’s extremely important to build with your clients and yourself. It’s all so self generated as is. I love what I do and wanted to share my work with everyone.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business is Venus Rising Esthetics. This business is my baby since it really was the turning point for my career in esthetics. I knew I wanted to create an avenue for my Black community to care for their skin. So often, I remember even in school, we only saw how the skin worked on a lighter scale. Skin diseases or issues translate so differently on melanin and I want to change the way we see that. I would also love to change the idea that we don’t have to wear sunscreen. I perform body treatments, waxing, facial services, and practice preventative skin care. Ive always wanted to be a pillar for self care and helping others understand their skin and everything that affects it. I got to where I am by honestly taking a leap of faith and applying myself. I am a chronic procrastinator so this has also helped discipline me and ground me as a professional and person. Starting Venus Rising was not easy, there’s so many details and expenses related to starting in esthetics. It was overwhelming at first but taking things a step at a time and making sure you have a team really helps. I want everyone to know me as the woman who took a leap of faith and helped shape how we view skin and self care. Everyone has this untapped beauty and power in them. I want to help them feel that through what I do, hence, Venus Rising.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Charlotte is full of little hidden gems and I am honestly still exploring them. I am originally from Greensboro, NC and relocated in 2019. Some of my favorite spots for daytime chilling might have to be Paulines Tea Bar, the Plant Bar, anywhere in Noda because it’s filled with bars and museums. As far as a night out, my friends and I love 82O, Strokes, Tattoos and Booze, Crave, Red 28, Optimist Hall, and the epicenter. I think the best thing is we always go places that have food and great drinks. Charlotte has a good scene for getting the most out of your visit anywhere. Also check out Charlotte Black Owned on Twitter for some great business. The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to my chosen family for sure! The way my friends and my sister have rallied behind me since I was in school for my licenses to starting my own business is amazing. They even helped with start up and everything. Ive never had to worry about being drained or overwhelmed because their prayers and help push me. It truly takes a village and they have been my biggest fans too. A special shout-out to my Sunbeams!

Website: https://square.site/book/JDJMKQ7M45NXK/venus-rising-esthetics-charlotte-nc

Instagram: @venusrising_clt & @ohhalesnaww

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