Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ebony Overstreet. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Ebony thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about the things you feel your parents did right and how those things have impacted your career and life.

What did my parents do right? They raised me under the belief and understanding to “Always do the right thing, and no matter what happens that as long as I was doing what was right they would always have my back, and even if I made a bad decision, they would love me through it.” My parents taught me unconditional love and to always keep going, no matter how hard things got.
This alone has had a huge impact on my journey as a mother, an entrepreneur, and as an overall good human being.

My life has had many ups and downs and I have always been one to “chump it up and keep going.” I remember as a child sitting on the front porch of my childhood home crying my eyes out because no one wanted to play with me. My father was there and as I cried he told me to stop crying and I didn’t need anyone to play with me if it meant I had to cry about it. I don’t even think he realizes how those words stung, but stuck with me throughout my life and into adulthood. He taught me to be tough, even when it hurts bad. That is a super power in itself, and now as I look back at the many storms I have had to weather in my personal and business life, I truly appreciate those words. My mother has always taught me to keep going. No matter how hard it gets, she always said,” you keep going and stay prepared”.

As a mother who raised my two sons as a single parent, those hard words that my mother and father instilled in me, made me who I am today. I teach my children to always do the right thing, no matter what it looks like to others and no matter what it feels like to them. I teach them and show them what it looks like to “keep going”.
These lessons were instilled in me at such a young age, and back then I had no idea of why and what to do with those words my parents always spoke to me. Today as a business owner and black woman; I am forever grateful for parents that showed me how to be strong, diligent, independent, loving, and mostly so sure of myself that I can stand in any room and now not worry about those who don’t want to play with me, but be thankful for the right connections and people that have been attracted to who I am because of what I exemplify in the world on a daily.

Today I can look back at that little girl sitting on the porch crying and say, ” dry your tears Ebony, you are greatness and greatness lies ahead of you”. You are strong, beautiful, smart, intelligent, and there are people in this world that need you. Keep going!

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My name is Ebony, and I’m the proud owner of Bella Vida Day Spa & Salon. Originally from Greenville, SC, I wear many hats: I’m a Mother, Sister, Daughter, and a Boss in every sense of the word. My journey may not be widely known, but I’m living this life to the best of my ability and walking by Faith and not by sight.

I work tirelessly to make others feel good about themselves, and while it can be challenging, it’s what truly gives me a sense of purpose. My mission is to not only help others feel beautiful but to inspire, educate, and uplift everyone who walks through my doors. I believe the beauty industry is the platform God gave me to fulfill His vision for me on Earth.

My career started back in 2015 as “Eyelash Ebony,” and from there, I continued to dream bigger. After honing my craft at one of the most prestigious and well know lash shops in Atlanta, I took a bold step in 2017 by opening my first Salon Suite. It was a small space, but it was mine—and it was just the beginning. In 2022, Bella Vida Day Spa & Salon was born, a true reflection of my heart and soul, offering a sanctuary for beauty lovers and professionals alike.

I am most proud of my growth over the past years, both personally and in business. I’ve maintained my integrity and my business through a pandemic and challenges that could’ve broken others. I never gave up, and every day is an opportunity to keep building. If you’re reading this, I want you to know that I’ve poured my heart into creating a space that’s become a refuge for many. Whether you’ve partnered with me in business, worked for me, been a student, or trusted me as your esthetician, you’ve all played a part in my journey. I’m forever humbled and grateful for the support, even from strangers who have often shown more consistency than those closest to me. I’ve learned to receive that in the most humbling way.

I don’t claim to be the best in the world, but I do believe I’ve been ordained to do this work. It’s my promise to myself that when I leave this world, my presence will be forever felt.

When I’m not at the spa, you can find me enjoying long drives with R&B playing, traveling, shopping, or curled up watching a good movie. I also love cooking and hosting events. Integrity and loyalty are values I hold close, and if we don’t align on that, the Libra in me will definitely feel the disconnect! I’m passionate about mentoring young adults and believe that with persistence, hard work, and faith in God, anything is possible.

Join me on this exciting journey as we continue to push boundaries and elevate Bella Vida to new heights!

Any advice for managing a team?

My advice would be that in order to successfully manage a team, you must start from the bottom. Meaning, you have to know every role/position that you are managing. It’s always a plus to say to someone that you truly have been in their shoes or at least on the same path as they are traveling. It makes you more relatable and easier to work with. You must also lead with integrity and grace. This requires high morale from you, and therefore your energy will spill over to your team. People are followers and leaders by nature. You have to determine who is who and make it work for your team.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

I think integrity plays a key role in where I am currently in my market/industry. I truly place integrity before anything. I lead with integrity and people are always watching that. It has gotten me into rooms that I could have never imagined being in.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bellavidadayspallc.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bellavidadayspa/profilecard/?igsh=MXVeHI0bnZj-Z2FtMg==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/skerJfp8gngnR9FJ/?mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BellaVidaDaySpaLLC

Image Credits

Janelle Rodriguez – Janelle luvs Photos
Ray Battle – BDP Photography