Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in beauty and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tiffani Mitchell-Jenkinson, Owner of La Belle Studio, located in Wilmington, DE, USA.

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

La Belle Studio is a full-service esthetics studio that serves the everyday, hardworking woman looking for high-level beauty services.

Tell us about yourself

I’ve always had an intense passion for all things beauty. I started my career as a makeup artist, and in 2013 I decided to take the next step to get my aesthetic license, with a goal in mind to one day own my own "makeup studio." At the end of school (2014), I left my full-time job with NARS Cosmetics to fully pursue my dreams of being a self-employed wedding makeup artist.

At the time, I decided to learn eyelash extensions as something "extra" to offer to my brides before their wedding day little did I know, lashes would soon take over my whole life! My studio grew from (just me) working out of my tiny apartment to now- a multi-location, esthetic-powerhouse. I have 20 employees and over 6500 clients in our database, and we continue to grow and expand every year.

What motivates me is seeing the business growth, seeing the happy clients, and seeing the positive impact a healthy place to work and flourish has on the employees.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Last year we hit over 7-Figures in sales. I wouldn't say it is the revenue that I consider the accomplishment but the fact that it allowed me to reflect on the fact that I did create this from nothing- that I have two young daughters who will look up to my efforts one day, and the way that I care about my team... and that I know it's something I can be proud to show them.

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

This is a two-part answer... growing a healthy work team and learning how to be a good boss. Learning how to keep employees motivated and happy and continue working to keep mental health and morale at high levels... and what running a business does to the mental health of the business owner as well.

There will be many ups and downs, but you need to listen to your own needs and fuel them as well, or the whole thing can crumble.

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

Know your numbers, have a plan (proper structure), and don't ever stop learning! Many people are good at what they do, but they may not know the business side of things (hiring, operating, profit/taxes, etc.).

All of these are so important, and if you aren't sure yourself- know that someone out there does and should always be willing to help, so don't be afraid to ask!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I'm in the process of launching my passion project- a 1:1 business mentorship program for beauty business owners, and currently developing a group coaching program, "7-Figure Foundation," that is set to launch in the fall.

The course will teach beauty business owners the five most important pillars to structure the foundation of their businesses, and my process for learning to make the business work for you making more money without having to take more clients.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.labelle-artistry.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/labellestudio.de
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetiffanimitchell/

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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