Today we’d like to introduce you to Essie Taylor.
Hi Essie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My story grows out of a journey of self-discovery. I have always loved makeup but I would only apply it on myself. I did not discover the power that makeup could have on a person’s self-esteem until I began applying it on others.
When I began my makeup business, I was in a rough place mentally and emotionally. I lost myself in all of the hats I was wearing. At that time, I was married, raising my two children, and working full-time as a teacher. I was in a place where I was praying and asking God who am I? My labels had labels and took over my life. I love my family and helping others but I had a deep desire to have something for myself. I was naturally drawn to makeup because I love the arts and I have always enjoyed creating.
I can remember the first time I applied makeup on someone else. She loved the outcome and felt like it took years off of her appearance. The difference it made in her self-confidence in the moment when she saw the final product sparked something inside of me. I realized that I had a gift for makeup application. I posted the pictures on social media and I immediately began to get inquiries for makeup appointments.
My self-confidence was extremely low as well during this time. However, I have always been told that I should model because I have a unique look with my dark skin, high cheekbones, and contagious smile. I took a brave step and auditioned for Greenville Fashion Week. I got accepted and ended up modeling and doing makeup for the Fashion Show as well. I feel like this was a huge launching event for me with makeup and modeling. I made so many connections and gained a bigger following on Instagram. Not to mention a major confidence boost.
As I practiced more, I sought professional classes to learn proper makeup application techniques. I have always strived to do things in excellence. I began taking classes at a local beauty school, MR Beauty Academy to become a Certified Professional Makeup Artist. I also received training on how to market my business. In order to further my education, I plan to continue in skincare and seek further certifications. Today I seek to empower women and my students with my experiences and excellence in service.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road has not always been smooth. One of my major struggles along the way has been trying to balance it all and make everyone else happy besides myself. As I learn myself through my healing journey, it has been revolutionary. I have been thoroughly enjoying getting to know Essie, what she likes, her goals, how she likes to dress, the people she likes to be around, even the food she likes to eat, and the activities she likes to do. In getting to know Essie better I realize that I really like Essie, flaws and all. She’s a pretty cool chick.
I have also realized that I am somewhat of a perfectionist. I want to be excellent in each role I play in life. It can be overwhelming because I don’t want any job to suffer in order to advance the other. Mom guilt is real! A major revelation I have had is that I have to do my best and trust God with the rest. Branching out and pursuing a career in the Beauty Industry has brought me such joy. Having the faith to step out and start something new has brought me such joy and rose my confidence to new levels.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
What makes my artistry stand out is that my makeup truly enhances the natural features of my clients. My clients and contractors tell me all the time that they use me because they know that I will not make them look like a totally different person. Rather, my makeup style is glamorous, effortless, natural glam. The result is makeovers that make you look like you but better. I am always hearing how the makeup that I do actually helps my clients to feel better about themselves. When I hear that I am so encouraged because that is truly my goal. I want my business to empower women to show up more confident in the world. It’s so much bigger than makeup.
Now I did not get here overnight. In the beginning, I had no concept of what my niche makeup style was. I would spend hours on YouTube and Instagram trying to mimic the cut crease looks and over-the-top glam only to feel discouraged, comparing myself to others. I truly did not like the outcome when I did makeup like this. However, when I was able to stick with my niche and dedicate myself totally to growing in my niche, that’s when I was able to see success in my business.
I want the world to know that I am dedicated to doing things in excellence and woman empowerment. My favorite service to provide is actually a One-on-One Makeup Lesson. I love sitting down with my clients and teaching them everything I know about applying makeup and giving skincare tips. When I can teach a woman how to enhance her own beauty, I feel like I am giving her the tools to empower herself! It may sound superficial but if you can apply a little makeup and show up more confident in the world that can change the path of your life. Self-confidence makes a huge difference. I also teach my clients that skincare is more important than makeup because you have to wash the makeup off eventually and you need to love the way you look without it, That’s what’s most important.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I grew up on the Southside of Chicago but I have to say moving here to Greenville, South Carolina has been a pleasant culture shock for me. I feel like it is a great place to raise children and there are far more opportunities for people to prosper here. I have friends and family that come to visit and there are a few favorite spots I would take them for sure. I also appreciate the relationships I’ve been able to build with other Black Female Entrepreneurs in the area. A large part of my business has been built on the partnerships I’ve been able to build with other entrepreneurs in related fields not to mention so many that have supported my business through booking with me. Specifically, I am so thankful for my partnerships with Greenville Boudoir, Stacey Gardin Portraits, Pop Boudoir, and MR Corp Concierge to name a few. At the same token, I’d love to see more racially diverse collaborations amongst businesses in the area. Business partnerships help us grow and expand beyond our circle of influence.
Pricing:
- Makeovers start at $85
- One-on-One Makeup Lessons start at $150
- Hair and Makeup Combined Services start at $150
- Bridal Packages start at $200
- Concierge/Travel Fees start at $35 depending on the radius
Contact Info:
- Email: info@essieyvonne.com
- Website: www.essieyvonne.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/essie_yvonne/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/essieyvonnemua
Image Credits
Stacey Gardin
Latoya Dixon-Smith
Scott Thomason
Stephon B. Photography
TRA Productions
