Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in beauty and cosmetics but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Crystal Cook, Founder of Crystal Cook Artistry LLC., located in Lumberton, TX, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Crystal Cook Artistry is a beauty studio focused on lashes, brows, and skin. My clients are intelligent women and men who want an experienced esthetician that cares about their needs and wants.

Tell us about yourself

My grandmother and mother were both cosmetologists, but growing up, I wanted nothing to do with it. I was actually a biology major, but with my mom in the beauty industry and my dad an artist by trade, it's no wonder I became a makeup artist 15 years ago. From there, I went to Aveda to receive my esthetic license. I started doing lashes 11-12 years ago as well. I want my clients to feel confident, and I want to do that while keeping the health of their skin and lashes in mind.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Just taking that initial leap of faith is the hardest. I have not only built my business from scratch once but twice when I moved cities. As a single mom, that can be terrifying. You don't know whether or not it's going to succeed fast enough or at all.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

This goes in hand with what I said before, but starting your own business from scratch can be so difficult. Most businesses do not make it. There's so much behind starting your own business and keeping new clients coming. I'm an introvert, and putting myself out there isn't always the easiest. I hate cold calling or promoting myself in person. Even social media can be tough for me, but I know that it's so important in today's modern business life.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Save up a small nest egg to cushion yourself for a few months, find out what you need to do legally/ financially from the beginning, and just take the leap of faith! Working for myself is the second-best decision I've ever made (my son comes first).

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Focus locally! You need to support your local businesses and develop a relationship with them if you can. Cross supporting is amazing. Get involved with your community- it helps with your business. Working for yourself is amazing, don't let the fear win.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: http://crystalcookartistry.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crystalcookartistry/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrystalCookArtistry/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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