For this week’s Micro Extraordinary feature, we had the opportunity to talk to makeup artist Sha Bowers, the owner of Sha Slayage. Bowers is a 2016 Wade Hampton High School graduate. She currently resides in Columbia, S.C., and attends the University of South Carolina while running her business.
How did you begin your career in this industry?
I knew I had a passion for cosmetics and skincare my senior year of high school. I decided to work in the beauty industry while in college. After becoming experienced as a trainee for Prestige brands, I decided it was time to take my profession to another level.
When did you start Sha Slayage?
I established Sha Slayage in 2018.
Who or what inspired you to become a business owner in the beauty industry?
As I became a social media advocate for Prestige and upcoming skincare and makeup companies, I started to partner with people across the world. This gave me insight of what the beauty industry was all about. That’s how I got my inspiration to get started.
What are your typical responsibilities as the owner? Do you have help from employees?
As the owner of Sha Slayage my responsibilities are very diverse. I am responsible for the overall day-to-day operation of the business. My main responsibility is to stay on top or above all beauty trends to provide healthy, polished makeup applications for all clients that best suit their skin needs.
What, in your option, is the most important quality in a makeup artist?
I believe the most important quality in a makeup artist is their creativeness and what looks or trends can be created to bring to the industry.
What is your favorite look and why?
My favorite look is our “Sha Slay” look. This look is inspired by me and is designed to bring the personality out of an individual.
How do you stay up to date with the latest beauty trends?
To stay updated with the beauty trends, I use social media as a tool to learn and develop new skill sets and looks. I use magazines, portraits and photoshoots to coordinate colors and I use my own imagination to develop my unique style of looks with the help of my clients.
What do you believe to be unique about Sha Slayage?
What’s unique about my business is that we specialize in different forms of makeup. We focus our profession to service up-scale bridal makeup, glam makeup and editorial makeup. Not only do we provide healthy and polished looks, we also ensure that the foundation, the skin itself, is healthy enough to gain from the prestige makeup applications.
How much time do you spend improving or working on your business?
I usually spend about 15 hours weekly operating and/or servicing my business.
How was the process of getting started with your business?
The process of beginning my business was extremely complicated as I’ve had many doubts about establishing a business in a new city with the hopes that it will become successful. With my strong sense of determination and willingness, I knew that this journey was made for me.
I’ve faced obstacles at the beginning. I learned from them and found ways to develop understanding. From my experiences, I would tell entrepreneurs that every obstacle that comes along aren’t always preventing you from something, but they are all getting you prepared for what’s greater.
What’s one or several things you wished you would’ve known before getting started?
One thing I would share with anyone starting a business is to make sure you are passionate about what you are doing because it will show in your work ethic. Love what you do and do what you love!
How would you describe your business’s success so far?
I’m proud of how far my business has come. Each year, my business has gradually grown, and each year I have grown as an entrepreneur. My business has been recognized by many companies, entrepreneurs, editors and clientele, and I’m extremely content with the success it has drawn.
You’re a mother as well as a college student. How do you balance your personal life and your business?
I balance family and business well. The great thing about my business is that it is, in fact, a family business. I prioritize my personal life and business life to ensure a consistent form of management.
We all know that entrepreneurship has its ups and downs. You’ve experienced some of that while getting started. What are some things you do to stay motivated?
To stay motivated I am consistent with operating my business daily, whether that’s learning something new, setting appointments or creating content. I set many business goals to stay focused on the metrics of my business.
What do you enjoy the most when it comes to being an entrepreneur? What excites you to get up and make things happen?
As an entrepreneur, I mostly enjoy wedding days. I love being able to travel to service the bride and her bridesmaids. It’s very enlightening to be a part of and witness a magical day where everything is filled with love, laughter and memories.
What goals do you have for your business?
A future goal for my business would be to do custom film makeup, magazine makeup or personal celebrity makeup. I love working with models and influencers who are articulate in everyday trends, fashion and/or beauty.
What advice do you have for other entrepreneurs?
The advice I would give to any entrepreneur would be to just “Keep Going!” Prepare yourself for the outcome that you want so you can be ready when the time comes.
www.shaslayage.com
Facebook: Sha Slayage
Instagram: shaslayage
Bridal: [email protected]
Telephone +1 (208) 801-5455
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