Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in beauty and cosmetics but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mattilynne Williams, Owner of Sexy Visage, located in Omaha, NE, USA.

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

My business is called Sexy Visage. I am the CEO; I have several ladies that work for me. We specialize in soft glam makeup looks with a mid-west twist. We provide luxury services at the snap of your fingertips. We bring out the beauty in all of our clients by going beyond the brush; true beauty lies.

Tell us about yourself

My earliest memory of beauty was my mom and still is. I would watch her put on makeup in her mirror. I would sometimes get amazed at how lipstick would brighten up her mood. As a teenager, I went on to do makeup for various school plays. I would do makeup during lunch and after school. I wanted to immerse myself in all things beauty fully.

What motivates me the most is my husband and two children. I know my children see it if I am doing a good job. I want to be an inspiration for them. I want them to look at me and say that if Mom can do it, then we can do it.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner would be when I won 2022 The Knot Best of Weddings. And maybe a small for some, but for me, it was such a big accomplishment; when I received that email that I had won, I stopped doing everything I was doing. I cried. And I thanked everyone who reviewed me. Another accomplishment I would have to say would be hiring other makeup artists. My goal is to create a platform for others, we women, to Inspire them that they can be the best that they can be no matter what no one says.

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

The hardest thing about being a business owner is finding the balance between family life and work life. Sometimes it can be a struggle to spend time with your family, especially when you're in the wedding business. For those who are unaware, weddings are typically on the weekends. So that Saturday, Friday and Sunday.

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

The top three tips I would give anyone would be to learn as much as possible about running a business. When I was in high school and college, I took a lot of business courses, and I would never have thought I would be in the position to be using the education I'd received prior. Having those business courses did shape my mind in a way to be able to provide the best customer service and experience for my clients. I would say customer service is the number one tip I can give someone. I can't tell you how many times people have commented on how genuine I was, how professional I was, how easy-going, or just how the process was for them. Since I'm a bridal makeup artist, I provide a service, and it's a luxury service, so I like to make my clients feel like they are the most important person in the world. Especially since it is their wedding day and some people only get married once, and I want their experience to be with me to be a memorable experience. The last tip I would give would be just to start. Before launching my business in 2014, I had been waiting for years just to lunch. Launching a business doesn't take that long; however, I was petrified about what would happen if I failed, if people didn't like me, or if my skills weren't good enough. I put so many negative thoughts in my head that I was just scared. You can do it; you just have to believe in yourself, so don't think about it too much. Just start.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

My plan for the future is to open a day spa. Like a one-stop-shop. Hair, nails, makeup, facials, plus more. I want women to have a safe space to feel beautiful and comfortable.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.sexyvisage.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattilynneW/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexyvisage/

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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