We were lucky to catch up with LaShieka Ferrell recently and have shared our conversation below.
LaShieka, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Before we get into specifics, let’s talk about success more generally. What do you think it takes to be successful?
The answer to this question is simple. Consistency and the ability to adapt. I opened makeup business in 2018. I was only focused on doing makeup. I didn’t have any products on my shelves, and I was not thinking about opening a online boutique. I was focused on growing my clientele. Then Covid hit and my business stopped. I still had a job at a hotel but business was slow. So, I began to think. People always compliment my style, so let’s open an online boutique. Next, I developed my on brand of makeup to have on the shelves in my shop. Then I had to learn how to brand myself. If I had one piece of advice to give it would be “Never stop learning.” It is always something new to learn.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is LaShieka Ferrell and I have been doing makeup since 2018. In 2012, I had baby boy named Major at the age of 32. I went straight back to work because that is what I was used too. When Major began preschool in 2016, I said I don’t want to miss any of my son’s activities. I began to search for other ways to make money. I went back to school and got a degree in business. I got a new job but I still hated it. Then a person suggested that I do something I love to do. Makeup was my first thought. I bought me a few products and began to practice on my family and friends. I did that for 2 years before I got the nerve to take a client. Once I took my first client, things began to move extremely fast. I named the business ShiekFaces. (Pronounced Chic Faces). I specialize in pretty, sexy neutral makeup, shimmering eyes, and I love a bold lip. My clientele ranges from 14 to 60. No matter what the age, I listen to what my clients want. I talk to my clients and I am interested in their needs. I try to communicate effectively with all my clients.
I offer a range of services: makeup applications, brow tinting, eyelash application, and facials.
Eye Charms is the name of my cosmetic line. Currently, we have 10 products on the shelf. Eye shadow pallette, eye shadow primer, eye shadow shimmer sticks, lip stick kits, lip gloss, lashes, glue pens for lashes, mascara, brow pencils and brow pomade. Eye Charms caters to the eyes because the eyes are the window to the soul.
Every October. We have an event for cancer survivors. We spread awareness, but most importantly, we honor cancer survivors. We give them makeovers and a photoshoot to boost their confidence. This is what I am most proud of. I love using my talent to uplift someone’s spirit.
If you choose ShiekFaces, you will get quality over quantity. I care about my clients, and I am honest. This brand represents love and community.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
Networking has proven to be the best source to build my reputation. I go to events and meet new people. I always do a follow up as well. I even go to events that have nothing to do with my industry. You never know who you may meet.
How did you build your audience on social media?
People connect on social media, so you must have something they can connect too. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Go live often, tell stories people can relate to, make videos of your work, and respond to comments. Word of mouth is still the best marketing technique.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.shiekfaces.com
- Instagram: Shiekfaces
- Facebook: Lashieka Dunham Ferrell
Image Credits
Photo credits Deontae Holloway