We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Melissa Marie a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Melissa , appreciate you joining us today. How has Covid changed your business model?
Covid has changed my business model due to the economy changing with inflation and a lot of my clients having to make decisions based off their wants and needs. It’s also made me think about other revenues of income with expanding my business, and looking into easier yet possible ways to make more money. Now I understand when millionaires say that you need at least seven different revenues of income, because you never know when your business will be affected due to an unexpected event in life that’s out of your control.
Melissa , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I’m moved to Atlanta in 2013 to pursue my dreams as a make up artist. I started off modeling and doing videos. I started working in a strip club as a waitress and I started doing make up there and That’s how I gained clients, making connections and networking. What set me apart from other Celebrity Makeup Artist this is that I am a versatile artist. I take pride in being able to do any race, face, shape, and any skin type. I feel like the more versatility that you can offer the more money you can make, so I refuse to limit myself, with just one type of canvas. I am most proud of the fact that it’s going on 10 years that I’m moved to atlanta from Memphis, and dropped out of college to become an obstetrician to pursue my dreams. I never gave up, and I never went back home. I want my followers and fans to know that I am unapologetically me, when you see me you would never forget me.!! what you see, is what you get, I’m very passionate about my artistry, and I am as extra and glamorous as they come. My brand is all about luxury, authenticity and owning who you are and that you don’t owe anyone an explanation.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
The most effective strategy for me growing my clientele, is word-of-mouth that type of advertisement will forever be the best because people like to hear your experiences with a business. I’m a very personable person, and I know how to communicate with clients and build relationships with people. .
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
When I was in Memphis I didn’t have any responsibilities as far as paying bills. So when I decided to make a change and move to Atlanta, I had to learn resilience very quickly. I eventually moved here with friends that became enemies, and I had to learn how to stand on my own 2 feet. From being homeless to losing friendships to being unemployed, I had to rely on God and he increased my faith. I eventually learned how to walk by faith and not by sight.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://melissamarie.as.me/
- Instagram: iammimicouture
- Facebook: Melissa Marie
- Other: Tiktok: mimislaycouture