Enhance, Rather Than Conceal - Nalini Maharaj Makeup and Hair
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in beauty and cosmetics but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Nalini Maharaj, founder of Nalini Maharaj Makeup and Hair, located in Vancouver, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a Vancouver, BC-based makeup artist, hairstylist, and educator specializing in weddings and special events. I believe that every woman is beautiful and that confidence should radiate from the inside out. My artistry approach is to enhance, rather than conceal, giving each client that extra glow they need to put their best face forward.
If there's anything that I've learned in all my years in this field, it's that women want to look fresh, flawless, and beautiful while still looking and feeling like themselves. It's this fundamental that's inspired my signature style, which is feminine and natural yet keeping within the modern style.
I have traveled across the world for my brides, creating ever-lasting memories with them. Not only is it my goal to make you look and feel you are the very best, but to also help make your special day feel even more special by hanging out with a friend and making those memories that much more beautiful.
Tell us about yourself
Growing up, I always loved playing with my own makeup and hair. I would go to school with a new hairstyle each day, and when I was old enough, I would never leave the house without makeup. Art was my passion from a very young age, and as I got older, I figured out that I could convert my passion for art into a career.
It started out as playing with my own makeup and hair, looking at magazines for the latest looks, and trying to recreate them on myself, then watching YouTube videos and learning new tips and tricks, which then eventually led to practicing with family and friends. One day a friend of mine and college suggested that I should start doing makeup and hair professionally as a career. I haven't looked back since.
With over a decade of experience under my belt, I have worked with countless brides, clients, and brands to build a portfolio of work that is constantly evolving to stay up to date with the latest trends and styles in the world of makeup and hair.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
When I first started doing makeup and hair, it started off as a hobby, then it turned into a side gig, and now it is my full-time career. I never in my life imagined that I could turn my passion into a full-time career, and the fact that I am able to do that now is, for me, the biggest accomplishment ever. I have gained my client's and audiences, trust by displaying my expertise and knowledge in the field of makeup and hair through my work and social media outlets. This has allowed me to now teach and pass on my knowledge to others so they can have the skills to do their own makeup and hair with confidence. I now work with other companies that I trust and value and collaborate with their products/services. All these opportunities opened up to me because I followed my passion. That, to me, is the greatest accomplishment yet.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing about being a business owner is blocking out the noise. Staying positive and not comparing yourself to others. Looking at other people's success stories and comparing them to yours. You have to remember to be your own advocate. Remember to stay focused on your own goals and not compare how fast other people may be achieving theirs.
With social media these days, it's easy to get lost in the noise and compare yourself to others' expectations. We each have our own path to live in life, and just remember that every day is a new day, and we have the choice to make it a good one or a bad one, a productive one, or a lazy one. The choice we make is ours, and no matter what, at the end of the day, it'll always be a good choice. Even if some of our choices lead to outcomes we never wanted, we can learn from them and grow. The only way to move ahead in life is to learn from your mistakes, make the changes needed and move forward from there. Just remember everything happens for a reason, and what's meant to be will take its course; you just have to trust in the process.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Don't be afraid to spend money and invest in yourself. Knowledge is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. Always keep your eyes open. Keep learning, keep reading, listen to podcasts, and watch the YouTube video. There is so much free knowledge out there in the world; take advantage of it! And when it's not free, invest money and take the class.
- Don't let other people talk you out of it. If you have a great idea and you know it's something you want to pursue, do it! People will always have something to say, and often times they will project their fears onto you. Trust yourself and believe in yourself.
- Have fun! If you're not having fun and loving what you're doing, then you really need to question it and ask yourself, "why am I doing this again?" The best way to be successful at something is to love what you do. That way, even on the not-so-great days, you'll remember to see the bigger picture and remind yourself why you're doing what you're doing, and passion will be your biggest drive!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
At the end of the day, love what you do, check in with your support system, and never give up! Continue to do other things that you love and keep your mind fresh. Be sure to get out and get some fresh air, even if that means going for a walk around the block on your own. And when you're feeling overwhelmed, stay away from the internet. Spend time in nature, and just reflect on yourself.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.nalinimaharaj.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nalinimaharajmua
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nalinimaharaj/
AllMyLinks: https://allmylinks.com/nalinimaharaj
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.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.