Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in training and education but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Celena Rubin, Owner and Director of The Art of Makeup School, located in Portland, OR, USA.

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

I am the owner of The Art of Makeup School, a boutique career school that teaches students the techniques, art, and marketing skills to be a professional makeup artist for film, tv, stage, fashion, media, weddings, special fx, hair styling, and anything makeup related.

Tell us about yourself

After about 16 years of working as a freelance makeup artist, it felt like the next step would be to open my own school and share my passion while inspiring and teaching others how to have a career in makeup artistry. It is satisfying to see how many of my students have successful careers.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I was able to pass two bills that helped my business and community. When I moved to Oregon, I needed an esthetic license to do hair and makeup. I created an exemption in the cosmetology rules, so now you don't! My business has sustained for ten years.

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

It is very difficult to navigate all the tasks and skills that are required of a business owner. There is so much work that it never gets done. I have to set boundaries for myself so that I eat at a reasonable time and spend time with my family.

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

Make sure you do as much research as you can. Create a solid business plan and know your target market. Make sure that you have the staff support you need so that you are not overworking yourself.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Be open to change. The world has been changing a lot lately, and sometimes you have to constantly stay current with the times. We look forward to moving some of our programs online now that people want to do things more from their homes. If you had asked me if I was going to do this a couple of years ago, I would have said no. Now I think it's a great idea! I can't wait for this new phase of our business.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.artofmakeup.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheArtOfMakeupSchool/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofmakeupschool/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/aomschool
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-makeup-school/

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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