We had the good fortune of connecting with Shakiria Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Shakiria, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My business idea came to me when I woke up one morning. I was laying in bed thinking to myself and praying to God asking, ” What Can I do for a side business?” “What’s something I would love doing everyday? That’s when Eyelash Technician came to mind. I was already known for wearing cute lashes all the time, I’m almost never wearing eyelashes. So why not?! I then thought about my Full time job and being a single mom, and how would that interfere with my kids extracurricular activities ,and balancing that on top of my own business. I stepped out on faith, wrote out a plan, found a lash trainer, and that began my journey.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I think of my clients as myself. How would I want to feel going to a lash appointment? I began providing refreshments , goodie bags, selling lash strips, even upgrading from a massage table to a massage chair for my clients. I started with 3-4 clients to where I had an overflow, I had to close my books. I now offer classes to teach my talent and skills to others as well. I want to encourage single mothers to always pursue their dreams and never give up. I know how big of a responsibility it is to provide and us as women sometimes, forget what we enjoy or forget about our own goals and put our own life on hold for our children. I’ve learned how to crush my goals , run a business, work a 8-5 and be the best mother and provider all in one. It wasn’t easy, but the more progress I see within myself, and for my business the more I want to do better. I have had a few setbacks along the way, but that’s life and also APART of the PROCESS.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’m thankful for my trainer, family, friends, and models that allowed me to practice lash extensions on them between 6 – 8 hours in one setting. I would practice for hours to make sure I was perfecting my skills and over time I would time myself to improve my speed. Without the help and support of others , I wouldn’t be where I am today.
Website: www.MesmerizingMinx.com
Instagram: Mesmerizing__Minxx
Facebook: Shakiria Johnson