We had the good fortune of connecting with Meagan Austin and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Meagan, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My thought process before I started my business was HOW. How am I going to get this business going by myself? I was tired of suffering from acne and blemishes. I wanted to create something that would be natural and chemical free. Sometimes the leading brands would not work for me. You would think they would when you are consistent. By me suffering with acne, I had to do something that would work not only for me but for families. Both men, women, boy and girl of all ethnic groups. I want people feel comfortable and confident in their skin.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Strobe Beauty started back in 2015 right when I finished Industry Makeup Academy. I was working on movie sets doing hair and I was pulled into the makeup industry. I was not interested in that at all. I went to Cosmetology School back in 2010-2012. In the middle of that I moved to downtown to ATL. Fast forward to 2015, I was unemployed, movie set work was slow. I used what I had in my home to make lip balm and lip scrubs. I did surprisingly good. Later expanded to lotions and creams in 2016 into 2017. I closed due to pregnancy; I really was not sure if I was going to relaunch at all. My S/O encourage me to do so. He helped get what Strobe Beauty needed. I contacted my tax lady, she set everything up, registered us with the state, and we have been in business since.
Starting a business is not easy especially if you do not know what to do or where to begin. I moved on faith and trusted the process. I utilized my background, I researched ingredients, essentials oils, tested on my skin, all to make sure It would be right. When Strobe Beauty opened, we launched healing soaps, creams, scrubs, eczema products. Later, we added massage oil candles, body wash, pain cream, and we now offer private label for those who want to start their business.
What set us apart is that we offer consultations to ensure our products will work for customers. We follow-up with old and new customers to make sure that our products are working for them. We can guarantee results when used correctly. We take feedback of all kinds, with no attitude. That feedback helps us make it better and perform better. Plus, we are more than sell. Our customers come first no matter what. I have learned that it is ok fail. Failing can defiantly make you give up and lose the drive. Failing can also motivate you to keep going. I must remember the why. Once I do that, that force comes in and it is over from there.
I want the world to know that we want our product in their homes. Our products are safe for the entire family. We are a chemical free, and vegan based company. My background gives me leverage to know what I am creating and selling. Finally, customers will have results and love it. Our brand is for real, not a hobby, not get rich scheme. We are a business striving for excellence, and we will be international soon.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Shucks, my BFF would show me where everything is and make me get out the house. I can be a homebody sometimes. I can be introvert unbelievably. I am new to Greensboro, NC, finding my way and learning all the spots, which are not many.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shoutout my significant other Rico. Back in 2017 he would help me mix and fill my jars; he would be right in my mom’s kitchen with me. It is funny because my dad saw what he was doing and would say, “alright now.” He saw the support I had and his dedication to help me get where I am today. Speaking of, I was washing dishes one day, my dad came up to me and said,” You better not breakup with him, if you do you break up with me” I laughed and said, “OK, I hear ya” I was like he never talks like this.
Rico went to the Flea Market with me on Saturdays, help me set-up and clean up. He traveled to The Make-Up Shows with me when I volunteered. I closed everything down after July 2017 to prepare for our daughter who’s now 4 years old. Fast forward he encouraged me to start it back in 2020 after we lost our pregnancy. Come to think about it, I did not grieve at all. I was happy God saved and spared my life. It was a traumatic experience where I almost died after losing one liter of blood. We have been through a lot together and he has been there, loving little ole me. I love him and thank him. Strobe Beauty relaunched in 2020 and we are still going strong. He is there as the finance and tech guy. His encouragement along with God’s wisdom is why I am here. I am forever grateful for God’s love, mercy, and grace. The gift of healing he is given me, I will continue to use it as long as I am here on Earth.
Website: www.strobebeautyproducts.com
Instagram: strobe_beauty
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sbeautycproducts
Image Credits
Jessica Khouri (Parent: Kortni) Kris