Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kay Sarai. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Kay, thanks for joining us today. Let’s jump to the end – what do you want to be remembered for?
It is my hope to build a legacy that will continue to inspire people long after I am gone! I was 17 years old when I decided to go into entrepreneurship, it has been quite the journey and I am grateful for each of the highs and lows. Being young, black, female, and an entrepreneur, has forced me to constantly live outside of the expectations that people have for me. I do not let any statistic or opinion alter belief in myself. If I let everyone know or rejection stop my entrepreneurial spirit, I wouldn’t of made it this long in business. Entrepreneurship is more than owning the business, it means consistent attention and dedication to your own survival and being open to as much education and growth opportunities as possible. As I continue to grow as a business owner, I want others who are in my shoes to understand that my struggle can only elevate their success. I mean honestly if we don’t talk about the things that are problems, low points, areas for improvement, we all lose an opportunity for better things. My legacy would include mentorship, safe space(s) for businesses/owners, opportunities for education through entrepreneurship. Each of these are things that I needed along the way sometimes I still struggle to find positive outlets, but building a strong community of like-minded individuals helps our community grow stronger. I hope to be remembered as constantly innovating the beauty industry and allowing aesthetics to be closer to our consumer than ever. The main focus being on result driven, client oriented quality service. I hope to be remembered in this way by showing others that it is possible to succeed focusing on quality over monetary gain. My clients continue to book with me because they have expressed an area of improvement in their life, and my services allow their need to be fulfilled. The repeat business occurs because they are able to grow a bond with me larger than the beauty service. They are my legacy as they continue to spread the word of my existence and the quality work that I provide.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
hey, hey I am Kay Sarai, Owner & Licensed Aesthetician of Skin.By.Sarai Esthetic Services. We are located in the northeast Georgia area, come visit the iconic city of Athens, GA. My specialties are facial treatments, hair removal, and brow + lash enhancements. Why is Skin.By.Sarai unique? Each service is cultivated around the clients individual skin needs or desired result. All I ask my clients to do is tell me what you’re looking for and I will work on how to get it for you! I hope to help you reveal your best skin!
We have many exciting changes that will be available to you in 2024! Book your appointment today!
Can you open up about how you funded your business?
To raise the initial capital for the business, I utilized three private investors along with my own savings from previous income sources. I was still in esthetic school as I began to understand what I’d need to start the business. I did so much research on products, equipment, locations, and funding opportunities. I was able to set a finite budget of 25,000 for everything I’d need in my first year. This was a good starting budget and I was able to acquire all of the necessary funds prior to taking my first client. The hardest part was being so young and having no prior knowledge of how to start then maintain a profitable business. I ran into so many rejections from banking institutions, credit unions and potential investors. Many reasons for rejection of funding were a lack of business credit history, too risky to invest in someone my age, and not having enough collateral to obtain a loan. I continued my research until I met three amazing individuals who were able to see my potential and eventually obtain a return on their investment!
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
Shortly after completing my first year in business, my health began to decline. I noticed many changes in my body and overall well-being. After visiting the doctor and many tests, a diagnosis revealed my condition. We all have struggles so I was ready to embrace changes to cultivate a healthier life this was something that I needed a bit more help to relieve pain and monitor symptoms. At this point, I had to take a step back to evaluate my health. I moved out of my second location and closed business for eight weeks. This time was crucial in the survival for my business. As the sole representative and employee of the business, you must prioritize self care. Putting myself first, and creating time for the relationships and activities that are meaningful to me has saved my business. Work life balance is so real, and it takes time to perfect. I was able to find a new location, double my clientele, and reinvent what the business stands for. Skin.By.Sarai is still standing and elevating the beauty experience for each of our clients. As I am almost one year post diagnosis, I could not be happier for the future of my business!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/skin.by.sarai