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

Hi Tabria, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?

Since I was 17 years old, I have always worked at a job. From the age of 19 to 25, I was working in various warehouse positions. My last warehouse job was from 2018-2020. Before working at that company, I knew that I wanted to stop working for someone else and focus on doing the same for myself. I knew I wanted to help people in any way that I can while also living life on my own terms. So as I was working, I would take extra funds I had available and put it aside for whenever I was ready to take that leap of faith.

At the time I was unsure of what I wanted to do exactly. One day, I came across an Instagram post from my tooth jeweler trainer. I was so intrigued by the services she provided and wanted to take a training class from her. After saving the funds that was needed, I took a training class with her and it was amazing. I learned a lot of information, she provided kits so I could get started right away and a long time mentorship. Even ‘til this very day, if I ever need any tips or anything I can give her a call. After I took up her courses, I then turned to my body sculpting trainer, body sculpting to me was becoming a big thing and I loved the results people were receiving. I decided to offer that service as well so I saved up and took a class with her as well. The one thing I would say that had me slightly intimidated was the non-surgical buttocks enhancement service. So I went to get the service before I actually took the training class. I wanted to see how it felt so I would be able to relate it to my future clients. The training was very informative, I was able to work on a live model for both classes so I can know exactly what to do in each service. It took me a little while to get prepared (buying equipment and supplies) but once I was in position I was ready to explore and get myself out there. Throughout this whole process I was still working full time. I was doing mobile services and having some of my clients come to me whenever the time allowed. I was really trying to get out there.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a body sculptor, I help men and women achieve their body goals without the need for surgery. Whether that be ultrasound cavitation, laser lipo, skin tightening, wood therapy, lymphatic drainage, etc. As a tooth gem tech, I help everyone boost their confidence with a fun and pain free way of expressing themselves. Customer service has always been a big niche for me. I believe in how you treat people is a reflection of who you are as a person. So I always try to stay positive, polite, exude compassion and kindness to everyone. I am most excited to see the growth of my brand. From struggling with brand names, starting up and putting myself out there, dealing with the pause from COVID back in 2020, to gaining the experience of working under my body sculpting trainer, to now officially having a brand name that speaks to me, obtaining my own suite and being able to live life on my own terms. It’s nerve wrecking but I’m super excited to continue growing through this journey. I’m ready to take it head on. It was definitely not easy at all. I have a “no matter what happens, I have to see it through” mentality so it definitely helps me overcome all of my challenges. The most important lesson I’ve learned is do not give up on your goals until you have reached them. Write down your goals, then write out the actions that are needed to reach those goals and stick to the plan. Yes, life will throw in some curve balls, try to knock you off balance, you may stubble and bend but don’t let it break you. Another lesson I’ve learned is if a client comes to you being rude and nasty, try your best not to match their energy. Sometimes they may truly be having a bad day and they’re just taking it out on you. This is where compassion and kindness comes into play. If you maintain your composure and frequency they will soon realize they may need to take accountability and adjust their own frequency. Now we are in a new age of business where some business owners have the right to reserve their energy and refuse service to these kinds of customers. Which I love because growing up I’ve always heard the phrase “The customer is always right.” In my 10 years of being in customer service I can tell you right now, that the customer is not always right. Some customers are rude because they want to get over, they can never be satisfied, or because that’s just who they are as a person. So in this industry, with my past experiences, I am proud to say I am able to handle the challenges and know when and how to combat them. I want the world to know that I am a 27 year old evolving entrepreneur who is really just getting started. If you decide to come in for a service be prepared to be met with great vibes and great customer service. The House of Gems is designed to boost your confidence in any way that is catered to your needs. After all we are all a gem in our own special way.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Oowee, to believe it or not I’m not the most outgoing person. I would go out with friends every once in a while. My best friend and I actually live together so it’s actually funny that this question is being asked. If I was to show her around we would eat at either Mojave, Ray’s on the River, Baltimore Crab & Seafood, Gocha’s Breakfast Bar, The Breakfast Club, Mangos Caribbean Restaurant and a couple of other places I cannot think of at the moment. We would visit, hang out and drink at a few places in Atlanta like Bar Politan in Colony Square, Opium, Rum Punch, Traffik, White Lily’s, Augustine’s and just a few other places here.

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?
First things first, I would like to shout out to God for blessing me through all my trials and tribulations. This entrepreneurial journey has NOT been easy, but with God by my side it is definitely worth the ride. I would like to shout out Glitz Tooth Gemz for allowing me to train with her and being there for me at times that was needed. Lori Dior Beauty Spa for allowing me to train with her as well and getting the experience of working under her for a year. A big shout out and thank you to all the people who allowed me to service them from the start of my journey ‘til now. From clients to models, friends and family, I really appreciate everyone that I have truly supported me and want to see me grow as a business owner.

Website: thehouseofgems.as.me

Instagram: www.Instagram.com/the.houseofgems

Other: linktr.ee/thehouseofgems

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta 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.