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

Hi Khadijah, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Initially, my focus and end goal were to carry on my late grandmother’s legacy. After her passing in 2017, I made a conscious decision to do all the things I had been putting off for so long. I have carried my esthetics license since 2011, but I was always working full-time for the Federal Government while practicing Esthetics on the side. While, still desiring to solely operate my esthetics business. But when the pandemic hit, I was fired from my government job. Thereafter, I started practicing Esthetics full-time. Immediately I was laser-focused on relaunching my business. Primarily, branding was key therefore I began working with a brand strategist and updated my logo, social media templates, and content across all social media platforms. Consequently, I enrolled in some continuing education courses to build upon my skillset in various areas such as makeup, skincare, and eyebrow training.

Following these courses, my business took off. My clientele picked up and I was able to build client retention. The business has been consistent since January of 2020. Though it has not been easy, there have truly been moments where I wanted to give up, but I did not, and I am so glad I did not. In June of this year, I began operating at a new space offering facials, waxing, makeup, brow tint, brow henna, and vagacials. Do I get frustrated, do I get anxious, do I get discontent at times? The answer is yes, but this journey has been oh so worth it. Ultimately, I know my granny is smiling down on me and her legacy will live on through Lula B’s Beauty Bar forever in her namesake. If I could change it all, I would not change a thing. This journey has been so fulfilling and worth it.

What should our readers know about your business?
Lula B’s Beauty Bar is a premiere waxing studio specializing in Bridal Makeup and Brazilian Wax Services. We offer facials, waxing, makeup vagacials, brow tint, brow henna and body treatments. Our business is centered around individuals making themselves a priority. Our focus is self-care from the inside out. Lula B’s Beauty Bar is “A Place to Be Pampered”. We believe that pampering yourself is a #1 priority. Self-care practices allows consumers to operate at their very best. I am most proud that I will be graduating with my bachelor’s degree in Business Administration this winter. I believe having my degree in Business Administration sets me apart in this industry. I have arrived at where I am today by being consistent, continuing education, and truly just enjoying and loving what I do. My passion for the beauty industry fuels me to keep going. No, this journey has not been easy by far. It has been overwhelming at times and I have wanted to give up so many times I cannot count it on my fingers. But I have overcame challenges by praying, being connected to God through my spirituality, and lots of planning and journaling. Having a healthy work/life balance is also key to being able to operate at my fullest potential. I have truly learned that in this social media age it is so easy to get in the comparison trap. It is best to focus on you, your brand, your business and staying truly authentic to yourself. I want the world to know that I am hardworking, passionate, and my business is focused on nurturing and loving yourself from the inside out. Self-care is so essential to your overall wellness, and it is indeed a priority.

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.
I would take them for an evening of sip and paint. I enjoy wine and I also enjoy doing creative activities. Therefore, it would be fun to enjoy some nice music, wine, and painting. For dinner, I would take them to a nice rooftop dinner to enjoy the city views. Following dinner, we would enjoy the night at a lounge. The next morning we would do brunch and spend the afternoon at the park, by the water. The rest of the week would be spent at the beach. The beach is my happy place. The following days would be filled with shopping, great food, laughter, and fun. Trying new cuisines and authentic Mexican food would be # 1 on the list of things to-do.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My mentors, family, and best friend have played such a huge role in pushing me and Lula B’s Beauty Bar forward. When I have gotten discouraged, frustrated, and downright just wanted to give up at times my support system has been behind me 100% keeping me going. My loved ones have supported my business, showed up for me, and encouraged and uplifted me when I needed it most. I know for a fact that I would not be in the position I am in today without them. My mother Towanna Williams is a huge reason that I am so consistent in business and everything that I do. Lastly, my late grandmother was a huge inspiration for starting this business, to begin with.

Website: Lulabsbeautybar.glossgenius.com

Instagram: LulaBsBeautyBar

Linkedin: Khadijah Williams

Facebook: Lula B’s Beauty Bar

Yelp: Lula B’s Beauty Bar

Image Credits
Ashleigh Bing Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.