Daily Inspiration: Meet Venaé Owens

Today we’d like to introduce you to Venaé Owens. 

Hi Venaé, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I began my first makeovers for high school plays that I was in, the director for my high school play knew that I was good at doing makeup and asked me to help with makeovers before going on set. Transitioning from high school to college, I then realized that I wanted more for myself than just a “9-5”. In my freshman year of college, I attended Lincoln University as a Nursing major. I wanted to network and establish myself on campus. Therefore, I brainstormed different names to call my business and finally came up with the name “Nae Faces”. I figured the best way to succeed at gaining clientele was to offer a crazy sale for all types of makeovers. At my first Lincoln University homecoming, I offered $10.00 Makeovers. I knew this was a super cheap price but I knew that it would create a buzz due to my advanced makeup artistry skills with the price. From that day on, business sky-rocketed. However, I knew I needed to have sustainable success to create a competitive advantage over my fellow competitors. From that service, I then started offering lash extension services. 

After this additional service add-on, I then transferred to Towson University to pursue an advanced study in Business Administration concentrating in Marketing. I then referred to my business as “Naéfaces”. Keeping the college dream alive, I then was able to establish a customer base on Towson’s campus. After establishing a great customer base on Towson’s campus, I then decided to rent my first ever space for my business. This step was extremely scary. However, with the help of my aunt, she allowed me to work in the back of her hair salon. After securing my first room for my business, I then made my business an LLC. From that step in my business, I then realized that I wanted to have full control over the atmosphere for my business. I then moved into my first solo salon suite. From securing my own suite and LLC, I then launched a product collection to build my brand online and expand my business network. Now, the online platforms for my business have grown tremendously reaching thousands. 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Entrepreneurship has not been the smoothest road. I believe this factor is what provides such a great reward of accomplishment. At times, I struggled with gaining clientele and with motivation at times. Before getting enough profit to buy fancy equipment, I used what I had with the dorm rooms provided. Listening to several great speakers such as Les Brown and Dr. Myles Munroe, helped with my perspective on business. Also, keeping my faith in God at the forefront of my challenges helped me navigate through them as well. Also, dealing with understanding business terminology. Along with the fact that I am a full-time student at Towson University as an undergrad studying Business Administration with a concentration in marketing. I struggled with finding balance as a full-time business owner in regards to self-care and sticking to business hours. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a professional makeup artist, certified lash artist, and brow artist. I also sell products that align with the services that I offer such as cosmetics and lash supplies for lash artists like myself. I specialize in enhancing others’ beauty and helping with self-confidence. I am very proud of the fact that I am able to create my own marketing material as a graphic and website designer. I also have a secondary business, Brand Empire Marketing. With the skills from my graphic design business, I am able to be in full control of the aesthetic of my brand. For example, I created my own website and I often create digital marketing content for my business via social platforms such as Instagram. I believe what sets me apart from others is my innovative and creative mindset. Along with the relationships I have built with my customers and supporters. I treat everyone as they are a part of a community as opposed to just being a consumer. Also, being able to be equally skilled in three services offering the best service and experience. 

The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
Yes! Owning a business that survived through a pandemic showed me that I was capable of more than I thought. Also, I am grateful that I was able to rely on my innovative mindset and supporters. Also offering other services and products. I believe if I only offered one thing, my business may not have done as well as it has. Also, making time for the things that matter outside of business. Balancing family and work is super important. After losing my uncle at the height of the pandemic, it gave me the uneasy push that I needed to keep going because we had always spoken about my business expanding. 

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.naefaces.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naefaces/?hl=en

Image Credits
Rawfeen and Naefaces, LLC.