Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in beauty and cosmetics but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Brenda Sotolongo, owner of Pro Soto Beauty Studios, located in Indianapolis, IN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We teach private and groups how to do makeup. Choosing appropriate formulations and makeup types that will be best suited for each person individually.
Tell us about yourself
As a professional makeup artist for more than thirty years in film and television, I desired to help individuals learn to apply their own makeup and have a professional outcome by making the right choices in the makeup and tools they use. Our ladies and men bring their own bags, and we supply the tricks! We also encourage skin health, and we are staffed with highly skilled estheticians.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
As a guest artist, I had an opportunity to serve a lady in a large department store. A woman who came for a lesson was so discouraged and felt she was always being oversold when seeking help, she agreed to try one more time with me. At the end of our lesson of detailed tips and tricks, she looked in the mirror with tears in her eyes and said, “I’ve looked in the mirror for 55 years, and this is the first time I see a beautiful me!” That’s why we do what we do, and that is why Pro Soto was born.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Understanding that this is more than doing what you love. It is learning to always be prepared financially and surround yourself with like-minded people who want to succeed and stand firm in your goals.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Know your market.
- Do your homework.
- Understand costs and risks.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
No business is successful because of one person. It is the team working together.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.prosotobeautystudios.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/prosotobeautystudios
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prosotobeautystudios/
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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