We recently connected with Jennifer Velez and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Jennifer thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Being a business owner can be really hard sometimes. It’s rewarding, but most business owners we’ve spoken sometimes think about what it would have been like to have had a regular job instead. Have you ever wondered that yourself? Maybe you can talk to us about a time when you felt this way?
That’s a fantastic question. You know, being a business owner is really like riding a rollercoaster. It has its ups and downs, and it’s not always smooth sailing. But there’s something incredibly fulfilling about seeing your vision come to life, about having the freedom to make your own decisions, and about the excitement of not knowing exactly what each day will bring. But I won’t lie. There are times when I see friends with regular jobs enjoying their weekends without a care in the world, and I think, “Wow, that must be nice!” But then, I remember why I started this journey in the first place – the passion, the drive, the desire to create something unique. And those moments remind me why I’m here. Abstract Beauty focuses on modern, edgy, and innovative hairstyles. This sets it apart from more traditional beauty brands that might stick to conventional styles. The brand embraces boldness and creativity in its approach to beauty.
My advice would be to follow your heart but be prepared for the ride. Entrepreneurship isn’t for the faint of heart, but it’s incredibly rewarding if it aligns with your passions and goals. Assess your risk tolerance, be ready to learn from failures, and surround yourself with a strong support system. And remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer – what matters most is what makes you happy and fulfilled in the end.
Jennifer, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Abstract Beauty is dedicated to showcasing and celebrating the individuality of each client. It doesn’t conform to one-size-fits-all beauty standards but instead seeks to enhance and empower each person’s unique features and style preferences. We focus on modern, edgy, and innovative hairstyles. This sets it apart from more traditional beauty brands that might stick to conventional styles. The brand embraces boldness and creativity in its approach to beauty. We encourage clients to relax and trust in their ability to bring out the unique beauty within themselves, emphasizing self-expression and confidence. Abstract Beauty’s Owner Jenn Velez has been featured in well-known publications like the NY Post, Byrdie, and other prestigious magazines in Colorado such as Rocky Mountain Bride, Colorado Wedding Magazine and Couture Colorado. Such recognition indicates that the brand has made a mark in the beauty industry and is trusted by reputable sources.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
Shifting from a 9-5 job mentality to starting my own brand involved changing my mindset to embrace uncertainty and risk. I had to unlearn dependence on a regular paycheck, become self-reliant, and adapt to a more flexible schedule. Additionally, I needed to develop skills in networking, time management, financial management, and resilience, all while pursuing my passion and purpose. It’s been a journey of transformation and continuous learning.
Has your business ever had a near-death moment? Would you mind sharing the story?
Absolutely, I’ve faced some incredibly tough moments on my journey as an entrepreneur. At one point, I was not only running my business but also navigating the challenges of being a single mom and overcoming substance use disorder. These personal struggles undoubtedly spilled over into my business life. There were times when I almost faced the possibility of losing my business and more importantly, relationships and overall well being due to my addiction. It was a wake-up call, and I realized that I needed to make significant changes in my life and my approach to business. Through the gift of desperation, therapy, and a strong support network, I managed to overcome my substance use disorder. This journey of personal transformation also had a profound impact on my business. I learned to be more resilient, focused, and disciplined. I began implementing better financial management practices and sought professional guidance to steer my business in the right direction.
In a way, my personal struggles became a catalyst for positive change in both my personal life and my business. Today, I’m proud to say that I’ve not only survived those challenging times but have thrived as an entrepreneur and a mother. It’s a testament to the power of resilience and the ability to turn adversity into strength.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.abstractbeauty.love
- Instagram: jennvelezbeauty
Image Credits
Image of the first three (me working on client, and bridal braid and makeup) Emily Elizabeth Photography Image of last two- Face flower and couple- Valeria Moonch Photography