Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in beauty and cosmetics but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Gabrielle Martin, founder of Glamour by Gabrielle, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.

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

My business focuses on providing makeup and hairstyling services for print, film, and special occasions. Whether I'm tasked with creating a character or enhancing someone's natural beauty, I love bringing my client's vision to life.

Tell us about yourself

My path is a classic case of a hobby turned career! I initially got interested in the transformative power of makeup when I used it on myself. I began to use my skill on others and saw how much confidence and joy I was able to provide. This is what sparked my drive to use makeup as an art form. Not only could I use makeup as a creative medium, but I also had the power to have a direct impact on people, even temporarily. I find it fulfilling to see the physical and emotional transformation in my clients.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I've had the privilege to have worked with a variety of brands, artists, and publications which have all felt like milestones in my career. But the most notable has been the honor of being featured in an August 2020 issue of Vogue Italia. The images featured were the result of a collaboration with friends on a day off. Vogue picked up the image and shared it on their platform, both online and in print. It felt like a surreal experience. I never thought that I'd attain that level of recognition, and it came as a reminder to constantly invest in your business. It was a creative project with the sole goal of trying new concepts, and it turned out to be the biggest driver of business. This one publication still generates inquiries and turns into revenue.

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

I find the organization to be the most difficult aspect. I consider myself an artist and a bit of a free spirit, so I've had to focus on keeping my business organized, making sure scheduling, invoices, receipts, contracts, and bills are all up to date.

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

Social media is your friend. Don't be scared to ask for help from mentors. Find your niche.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://glamourbygabrielle.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/glamourbygabrielle0
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glamourbygabrielle_/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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