We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Mariyah Oliver. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Mariyah below.

Mariyah, thanks for taking the time to share your stories 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?

I am beyond happier as a business owner. I’ve had two regular jobs before becoming a business owner and the environment is so different. I don’t think I’ll ever want a 9-5 and I haven’t thought about it either. The freedom and endless possibilities that come with being my own boss is just irreplaceable. If I could, I would convince everyone to become a business owner but in reality I know there are some people who enjoy their 9-5. I’m forever grateful for being able to experience both environments.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Originally, I’m from Hawai`i. I transferred to a junior college out in California then on to a University here in Texas. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to go back home or move to a different state after graduating. I started my master’s in psychology and then Covid hit after my first semester. I would have never thought about starting a business let alone two. During lockdown I started gaining a bunch of followers across my social media platforms. I wanted to be able to provide something from me to my audience and that’s how I started my first business. An online boutique. It was perfect timing because everyone was out of work and staying at home. I had the time to figure out a game plan. Thankfully my fiancé knows a lot about business so he was able to guide me through the process. We watched a bunch of videos and did a bunch of research. Finally, I was open for business. Almost a year after starting my online boutique I decided to start another… a press on nail subscription box. Perfect for those who enjoy press on nails.

What sets me aside from others is that most influencers have a third party deal with their merchandise. For me, I wanted it to be hands on. That way there is a stronger connection between my supporters and me. Instead of getting merch from a random warehouse you’re actually getting it straight from me. It’s hand picked or handmade and packed by me. I think that’s a cool experience in itself.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

I had to unlearn “regular jobs are the only jobs that are acceptable and that will pay the bills.”

That is the society I grew up in and the reason why I was hesitant to start. It’s scary but then you think of regular jobs.. how is that job even available for others? Because someone decided to be different and start a business! Same with being a social media influencer. It’s still something that a lot of people feel is a silly job title. However, it is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

How did you build your audience on social media?

I started on Tiktok and the funny part is that I refused to download the app but my friend convinced me to so she could send me funny videos. Eventually I got sucked into it.. scrolling for hours. Then Covid hit and I started making random videos during quarantine. Over time I’ve had a few different videos go viral.

My advice is to stay consistent with posting daily when you’re first starting out. I was posting three plus videos per day. Whenever I stop posting consistently that’s when I noticed a drop in followers and video views. Another is to be authentic, be yourself. Some people will love you and some won’t. I know it’s easier said than done but just ignore the hate from strangers. Last but not least, have fun!!! If you get to the point where you’re not having fun.. don’t be scared to take a step back and take some time for yourself.

Contact Info:

• Website: mooyahyah.com / nailcandibox.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/mooyahyah
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSsOJuhqeYMIZ6TCrqjUssg
• Other: https://tiktok.com/@mooyahyah