Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in beauty and cosmetics but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Emily Dimant, Founder of Makeup by Emily Dimant, located in Los Angeles, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a freelance professional makeup artist, working primarily on photo and video sets, music videos, editorial, commercial, and private clients. My job allows me to create a flexible schedule and choose the work I get to do every day. I put a lot of passion and feeling into my work, and it goes so much deeper than just makeup. Although I may add physical sparkle to faces, the natural sparkle, my clients have always come forward stronger. Makeup sessions with me are therapy. It can be healing, restorative, and confidence-building. Sometimes my clients cry tears of joy; sometimes, they love it so much they instantly start taking photos or FaceTime their partner or mom to show how gorgeous they feel. They are all immense compliments on my work I take so seriously. Intuitive human connection through beauty is what I will always keep learning and providing.
Tell us about yourself
I started cosmetology school in high school and got licensed at 18 years old after completing a 2-year program. I was already working on friends and local community members, getting my hands on any face I could touch! My childhood background stems from oil and acrylic painting, drawing, singing, dancing, playing the flute, and overall creativity. I was lucky enough to practice every day. I went on to art college and got a bachelor's degree in fine arts, meanwhile working on my makeup business every day. Many times I would skip class to work a cool makeup gig in New York. I was and still am eager to be using my hands to create art in every medium. I am a multidimensional artist and try not to set limits on where creativity, beauty, style, and new ideas can go.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Every time my work is published in the public space, it feels like a huge accomplishment. From magazines to music videos to press releases, I am grateful for each time my work is seen on a global scale.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the biggest challenges is knowing how and when to say no to an opportunity. Setting boundaries with clients and respecting your time and energy is very important.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Have a strong support system. 1-3 close people in your life, with one or more of them that could be a mentor or guide for you. Ideally, someone in your field has more experience and can be there for you when you need guidance or reassurance.
- Set up a business bank account and use Quickbooks self-employed if it's just you working for yourself! It can help track your miles, payments, and income.
- Prioritize rest to prevent burnout. Self-care is one of the most important things you can do for your business.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.makeupbyemilydimant.com/
Instagram: https://bit.ly/3zfnF6d
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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