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

Hi Niketa, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The thought process for me starting my own business was simple. I love makeup. Its something I never even considered until I realized how much I loved getting my make up done. That inspired me to wanna learn. So, I did….and that’s when I decided I wanted my own line ….so I researched, made connections, and created my brand.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business Succulent Cosmetics By Niketa is one of many black owned cosmetic lines. Everyone always says Cosmetics is such a over saturated business … however I never looked at it from that perspective. I just remember make up artist I used to work with complaining about not having enough lines for women of color and having to mix shades too get the right shades. Then while learning to do my own I experienced the same struggles. I wanted to create something that worked for everyone. So one of the things I am looking forward to is releasing my long lasting foundations. Of course I hit a few bumps on the way, but I never quit because this became a goal for me. I am driven and I always have been. You only become a failure when you stop trying….I used to tell myself that daily. What I want the world to know about my brand and myself is that a lot of love is put into this business. I have been scrutinized about pushing dates back or not dropping products when i say due to having epilepsy. Which is why every year I make a donation no matter how big or how small I donate. People always expected me to quit because I wasn’t well while building this business! I want everyone to know I’m no quitter…. sick or not I’m putting in the work to grow my brand and also trying to help others in the process. That makes me feel amazing!

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.
My best friend loves food so I’d definitely take her to Mr.Everythings, Papi’s, and Jamaican mi crazy! Then to the high museum, and the aquarium. She loves museums so we would definitely have to hit the trap museum. Little five points would be on the list as well. We definitely would be at brunch on Sunday…doesn’t matter where lol. Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d love to dedicate my shoutout to my friends Angelica, Stephanie, and my mom Angela. Without their support and guidance I wouldn’t have made it this far. I’m so blessed to have them.

Website: http://succulentcosmeticsbyniketa.com

Instagram: @succulentbyniketa

Facebook: Www.facebook.com/succulentcosmeticsbyniketa

Image Credits
Sooffcialshowout and Cornelius Vick

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlana 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.