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

Hi Mercedes, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I’ve always liked the idea of making my own money. Every since I was younger, I knew I wanted to own a business. At first it was a daycare, but then God started giving me different visions. He wanted me to minister to people using my other gifts.

What should our readers know about your business?
Many may know but I have three businesses, one of which I’m co-ceo. (Along side my mother). Unique Beginnings Special Events was birth during one of the lowest times in my life. I had so much going on with school, 2 kids, and working a full time job. I didn’t want those things to stop me because I know I had a purpose in this life. It was April 2017, a few weeks shy of my 26th birthday when I told myself, “this is about to be the start of a new beginning.” And our come Unique Beginnings Event Planning. I later rebranded and changed the name to Unique Beginnings Special Events.

My second baby is Unique Kisses Cosmetics. This one was birthed 3 months before the pandemic. My mom and I was so nervous to launch during the pandemic, but God. It’s no fancy story behind this one except I kept having this same dream about cosmetic line. I called my mom and told her my dream and she said “that’s confirmation.” 1 year later we are in 26 states and Candy!

My third baby is The Unique Enterprises
Company which came about because of my love for helping businesses thrive and be successful. I assist with graphics, logos, business structuring, and starting a business.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend came to visit me, we would definitely have to go to the uptown district. Enjoy some food, good drinks, and laughs. I would then go down to Railroad Park and take a stroll around the park. Next probably do a spa date. Little wine and feet rubbing won’t hurt. Rest on the next day. And hit the town Friday night and enjoy some scenery. It’s the little things with us. 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 first shoutout God. He has brought me out of some low times. Also want to recognize my parents for raising a strong-willed daughter. And last but not least my husband and children. They understand the goals, the vision, and most of all the hard work I put in day in and day out. They even pitch in a little.

Website: www.uniquekissescosmetics.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/ceomjs_3xs?r=nametag

Image Credits
Professional photo by Eric Lucas Sr. (E2 Media Group) and Makeup by Torrie Holman White (White House Artistry) Makeup in other photos by Liz Birchfield ( Make Me Lavish) Of course lipstick/gloss in pics from Unique Kisses Cosmetics

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