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

Nicole, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s talk legacy – what sort of legacy do you hope to build?

I want to be remembered for the positive energy I brought to people’s lives. I hope people will say I brightened their day, offered a listening ear and support when needed, and created a sense of peace and calm around them. Whether it was through a smile, a kind gesture, or the art I created, I strived to leave a lasting impression. My faith journey and entrepreneurial spirit hopefully inspire others to pursue their dreams too.

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 Journey:

I’m a Chicago girl who’s been obsessed with makeup since, well, forever! My childhood was filled with colorful self-expression. I’d raid my mom’s precious MAC bag, turning myself into a member of Destiny’s Child w/ a frosty silver lipstick and brown lip liner. But that’s where the spark ignited – the power of makeup to transform, to enhance, to make you feel like the most beautiful version of yourself. Fast forward to my sweet sixteen. Walking into that ballroom with flawless makeup by a pro was a game-changer. Seeing myself, not hidden behind layers of product, but with my features subtly highlighted – that was pure magic. It was then I knew I had to be a part of creating that feeling for others.

Building Flawless Beauty:

Getting my esthetics license at Pivot Point International was just the beginning. I remember being in beauty school for 9 months in the evenings 5 nights a week, while during the day I would be attending makeup class or doing photo shoots. By the time I graduated school I knew where I was headed in the beauty world. For the next year I would be networking and doing makeup on set of photo shoots and fashion shows pro bono. After working on over 100 faces I had started my beauty business from the ground up. With my faith in God and supportive parents I was able to travel across country to build my makeup kit & gain knowledge from industry professionals. 12years later, I have my own salon and suites location, a thriving salon space with an amazing team offering everything from waxing and facials to permanent makeup and lash extensions. Everyone that works in the salon are extremely talented and they all bring value to our customers. We’re a unique space. The minute you walk in, you feel the good vibes. We’re a collective of passionate beauty professionals.

The Pandemic Pivot & a Flawless Bath Bomb

Let’s be honest, the pandemic threw us all a curveball. With businesses shutting down and depression looming, I had to dig deep. And guess what? That’s when the miracle happened again! Right in my own kitchen, I created my first product: Flawless Beauty Bath Bombs. Remember, human connection was off-limits, so delivering these little stress-busting wonders straight to people’s doors was a way to stay connected and pamper them at the same time. That’s a win in my book!

From Operator to Owner:

Talk about a plot twist! In May 2022, a rollerskating mishap left me with a broken ankle and a serious reality check. My income as a beauty operator suddenly felt shaky. That’s when the idea sparked – why not become the teacher I always wished I had? I craved a bigger role, a chance to empower others. So, I enrolled at Pivot Point Academy in August 2022 and by 2023, I was a licensed instructor in esthetics! Earning that license was amazing, but for me, understanding different learning styles was key. As a visual learner myself, I knew some students might thrive on hands-on experience or real-world scenarios. That’s why I create a positive, supportive classroom environment. We don’t just learn the skills, we explore how to use them in the real beauty industry. It’s about building confidence and fostering a love for the craft, just like the teacher I always envisioned

More Than Makeup: A Celebration of Self-Expression

For me, it’s not just about looking flawless, it’s about feeling it. Being your most confident self and allowing that inner glow to shine bright. I’m a huge advocate for mental health, and being an artist through makeup and bath bombs allows me to express myself and help others do the same. My faith in God keeps me grounded, and that’s something I carry with me in everything I do.

Opportunities Makeup Created:

Forget the nine-to-five grind, my career’s been a whirlwind of glam and travel! Thanks to this incredible journey, I’ve had the chance to work on everything from TV shows and celebrity makeup to countless weddings, proms, and graduations. It’s more than just makeup – it’s about making people feel confident and beautiful for life’s biggest moments. he places this career has taken me! We’re talking coast-to-coast adventures across the U.S. – from Texas to Michigan, Missouri to Ohio, and Florida to Indiana. But the journey doesn’t stop there! I’ve even been lucky enough to travel internationally with clients, gracing faces with my brushes in the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Saint Martin, and even Mallorca, Spain. It’s been an incredible learning experience, soaking up different cultures and beauty trends.

let’s not forget the amazing mentors I’ve encountered along the way. The beauty industry is full of talented individuals, and I’m so grateful to have learned from some of the best names in the game.

Looking back, committing to this path has been the most rewarding decision ever. It’s more than just makeup, this more than the surface it goes deep. It’s about connecting with people, building confidence, and creating something truly special. I feel incredibly grateful for every opportunity that’s come my way, and I can’t wait to see where this wild ride takes me next!

Ready to Join the Flawless Family?

Ever dream of rocking the beauty world but unsure where to start? I’m looking for passionate go-getters like YOU to join my mentorship program! ✨

I’m all about helping aspiring beauty professionals build a solid foundation for their business. Think of me as your guide, helping you navigate the exciting (and sometimes confusing!) world of beauty.

Want a sneak peek? Follow me on Instagram and check out my website for all the latest updates! Let’s make your beauty dreams a reality!

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Buckle up, because I’m about to tell you a story that’s equal parts ouch and wow. Remember those epic roller derby days? Well, let’s just say a rogue wheel and some unforgiving pavement turned me into a walking (well, more like scooting) cautionary tale. Three fractures, 11 screws, and 2 metal plates later, I was staring down a recovery that threatened to break more than just my ankle.

Here’s the thing, though I’m ambitious. Lash extensions are my full-time jam, and the thought of letting my clients down during peak wedding season was a total nightmare. But with a broken ankle in three places, full applications were definitely out of the question. This wasn’t the plan, but hey, sometimes life throws you a curveball (or in this case, a rogue wheel!) lol.

So, picture this: me, perched on a dining room chair with my leg elevated, turning brides and bridesmaids into glowing goddesses with the help of my amazing support system. My sister-in-law Gigi, a total rockstar, and my awesome assistant at the time became my on-site fairy godmothers, helping me execute the weddings while I focused on creating flawless makeup looks. Even my dad got in on the action, turning into my personal chauffeur for the summer! It was truly an all-hands-on-deck situation.

Now, let’s be honest, battling depression on top of limited mobility wasn’t exactly a walk in the park. The lack of income and the forced downtime definitely tested my resilience. But you know what? My amazing friends and family wouldn’t let me stay down for the count. They’d wheel me outside for fresh air, crack jokes, and remind me of my strength. Slowly but surely, the sunshine and their support started to chip away at the darkness.

Looking back, that whole ordeal was a rollercoaster. But here’s the thing it showed me just how resilient I truly am. It forced me to get creative, rely on my incredible support system, and most importantly, never lose sight of my passion. It might sound cheesy, but that experience ended up being a turning point. It made me realize that even when the wheels come off (literally!), I can still find a way to keep rolling forward, and maybe even inspire others to do the same.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

Forget rags to riches, this is more like lipstick and lashes to a full-blown makeup empire! I definitely wasn’t born with a silver spoon but my mom helped me identify my passions and one of them happened to be makeup artistry. My parents, they were my biggest cheerleaders. They instilled the ultimate work ethic in me and never questioned my crazy makeup dreams. Coming out of beauty school, my whole family got invested in my passion. We weren’t just talking moral support, we were talking a full-blown family adventure! Yes they were writing tuition checks, paying for beauty workshops, supporting me in the best way possible. All I had to do was focus on my craft and hone in on my niche. We’re talking epic road trips to the IMATS show in Toronto, Canada all the way to Los Angelos, California – think makeup Disneyland for prosfessionals! I would stock up on thousands of dollars’ worth of the best-of-the-best products. Royal & Langnickel brushes, Kryolan palettes, Cinema Secrets… you name it, I had it! Whenever my mom did something she did it ALL THE WAY!

Thanks to their unwavering support, I never had to worry about skimping on quality tools and products. I showed up to every photoshoot, wedding, or film set with confidence and a makeup kit that reflected all the dedication we poured into those trips.

So, the secret to my initial funding? Supportive parents who believed in my crazy makeup dreams and a whole family adventure that fueled my passion for years to come. It really prepared me to conquer any beauty challenge that came my way. Reflecting back today I am so grateful I had those opportunities it really made me appreciate where I am today. Now I am funding my own brick and mortar business, I have 4 suites and 4 rental chairs, eyelash extension & spa products of my own, a team of 10 amazing beauty partners. I’ve taught and mentored over 200+ students. I like to give my time and what I’ve learned throughout all the years back to my community by visiting the youth at schools or in detention centers. I’ve created my own Flawless Beauty workshop to align with the STEM programs in schools for elementary and high school students to bring about self esteem, hygiene and the beauty of science and creating their own cosmetics line.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.flawlessbeautybynicole.com
• Instagram: flawlessbeautybynicole
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/flawlessbeautybynicole
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Flawlessbeautybynicole
• Other: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xBWz66d3PL3o7Btj8

Image Credits

Some photography by Mike O Images and Photo Mila