We recently connected with Sharice Smith and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Sharice, thanks for joining us today. Naming anything – including a business – is so hard. Right? What’s the story behind how you came up with the name of your brand?

“Nicole By Iman” came about shortly after the loss of my twin sister in 2006. Nicole is actually her middle name (Letrice Nicole) & part of my middle name Ann-Iman (I am named after my maternal grandmother) and the model Iman. Using our name for my business helps me keep her name alive and it propels me towards my purpose. I’ve always been interested in beauty, makeup, fashion and the arts alike. As children, my sister and I played with dolls, had tea parties, and fashion shows. We always expressed ourselves and were very creative and outgoing. Over the years I’ve been involved in fashion shows, photo shoots, and I’ve given makeup tutorials as a freelance makeup artist. This next chapter of my life is about reaping everything I’ve sown. I am able to sit back and watch my dreams come true launching my very own cosmetic line, in honor of my sister!

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

My name is Sharice Smith, and I am 41 yrs old from Baltimore MD. I am a freelance makeup artist building my brand as a small business owner with my cosmetic line. My inspiration comes from God’s love and grace, my parents, family, the love of my life, friends and sorority sisters. I have three sisters, Valaicia (53), Letrice (41), and Jaelyn (16). Tragically, I lost my twin sister, Letrice at 22yrs old in June 2006. She definitely played a significant part in me starting my business. I chose to name my business after my twin Letrice (Nicole by Iman). I come from a large family who exemplified class and intelligence. My family is resilient. My family is also big on education, whether you’re working a traditional job or working for yourself. A quote that stayed with me for years from a former principal ” Good, better best, never let it rest, until your good is your better and your better is your best ” (Dr. A. Bundley). Nothing is impossible as long as you believe. Over the years I’ve been learning, researching and understanding the beauty industry. I am specifically creating a cosmetic line pertaining to skin/facial products and makeup products. My focus are natural products, that nourishes and hydrates the skin. My makeup products will be bold, vibrant and pigmented. This line will be for all skin types and primarily melanated skin tones. I will offer various affirmations that will inspire and encourage my customers to be the best versions of themselves. I am most proud of my resilience. I go through things- to grow through things – to glow through things!! Life is beautiful!

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

I think what has helped me build my reputation within my market is me being my authentic self. My clients wanted relatable and trustworthy people to work with. My brand is built on word of mouth. Throughout the years I’ve networked and made connections that will last a lifetime. My clients sought people who were dependable, professional, and passionate about their craft. I’ve always treated people the way I want to be treated.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

I started this journey several years ago, and there were many ups and downs but never out of sight. I’ve always journaled and documented my progress throughout the years. Losing my sister was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to face in life, but I always kept my promise. I promised to keep going, growing and elevating. Most importantly, to finish what I’ve started no matter how long it takes.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @muasharriamor9 (revamping this page)