We had the good fortune of connecting with Shacarra Bennett-Hardy and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shacarra, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business for me meant freedom. It’s a chance for me to be free and artistic while also starting generational wealth for myself and my family. I always told myself I wanted to be a huge influencer and being an influencer is more than just looking cute on social media. I want to inspire young girls and women to see that beauty starts within, but hey sis I can help you enhance your beauty on the outside too!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I was discouraged at first because I felt that the beauty industry was too saturated, but I realized that I’m me and that’s what sets me a part from others. There might have been all of these beauty influencers around, but it wasn’t a me! I’m proud of everything I’ve done thus far and I’m excited to have this platform where I can be a beauty guide while encouraging self care. To get to where I am today was not easy at all! It took a lot of prayer, researching, and working with my mentors. Some lessons I’ve learned along the way and are still learning is: other people’s opinions of you do not matter, focus on the positive and not the negative. Whatever it is that you want to do, do it and don’t second guess yourself. I want the world to know that I did not come up with my brand for it to just benefit me. I want my brand to be beneficial to EVERYONE. If I can at least have one person say “MakeupByCarraMae taught me this, or encouraged me to do this…” then I know I’m on the right track.

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’m from Detroit born and raised, but I just recently moved to Dallas, so I am going to tell you what I would do with my best friend in Detroit. Let’s say it’s Summer time in Detroit because that’s the best! During the week we’re going to get some chicken with extra lemon pepper from Captain Jays, hang out with my family on the East Side (that’s where I’m from) more friends are going to come over and we’re going to laugh, talk, and crack jokes all day. All of my friends love to be around my family! Next day we’re going to get some chicken shawarmas then going to CJ Barrymore’s for some fun. The day after that we’re getting chili cheese fries from Coney Island then going to the Detroit Institute of Arts Museum. Spend a day shopping at Somerset Mall then go to Great Lakes Crossing Outlet the next day. Friday we eat bbq chicken pizza from Jets and that night we go downtown to Greektown and hang out on the strip. Saturday we go to the Riverwalk and hang out, that night we’re clubbing at Niki’s downtown, and finally on Sunday we go to Triumph Church for praise and worship, brunch at Kuzzo’s Chicken and Waffles (black owned and one of my favorite restaurants) of course, and last Belle Isle to chill and talk junk. The perfect week in Detroit!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have so many amazing people in my life that contributed to where I am today. I first want to thank God of course for making everything possible. My amazing husband, EJ who is always right by my side through everything! My parents and siblings who have always been such a strong and caring support system. My mentors, Danny B and cousin Coco who were patient with me, worked with me, and taught me so much! My best friends: Eric, Della, Kezia, and Marquisia for always encouraging me. Last, but not least my sisterhood, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, who are a major part of the woman I am today. Special Shout-out to Gamma Mu Chapter!

Instagram: https://instagram.com/mscarramae?igshid=7fcbilgw23rq

Twitter: mscarramae

Youtube: https://youtube.com/c/MakeupByCarraMae

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