We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Tashira Sheftal a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

TaShira, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

In late 2023, I found myself at a turning point in life. After spending 16 years at T-Mobile, I was part of the mass layoffs in August. It was a devastating blow, but it also gave me the chance to reflect on what I truly wanted. That’s when I decided to take a leap of faith and enroll in Chic Image Academy to pursue a lifelong passion for skincare and beauty.

I graduated in December 2023 with a clear focus on facials and skincare and a vision to create something unique. I dreamed of a space where beauty and inclusivity came together, a sanctuary where people of all skin tones felt seen, cared for, and empowered. That dream became the foundation for Ebony and Ivory Esthetics.

As I started searching for a studio, I found an incredible girl boss and studio owner named Sol. Her energy was magnetic, and her support was exactly what I needed. She had immediate availability for a suite in a fantastic location near Publix, but there was one challenge—I didn’t want to launch until September 2024, during my 40th birthday month. To my surprise, Sol believed in my vision so much that she was willing to hold the suite for me from July to September, giving me the time I needed to prepare for my big launch.

Those months were crucial. I poured my heart into building the foundation of my business—designing the studio, crafting my brand, and preparing to welcome clients. By the time September rolled around, I was ready to introduce Ebony and Ivory Esthetics to the world, aligning the launch with a milestone that represented a fresh start for me personally and professionally.

While the journey is still unfolding, my studio is growing steadily, and every new client feels like a step closer to realizing my vision. Sol’s willingness to take a chance on me was a reminder that when women support each other, incredible things happen. What began as an uncertain leap after an unexpected layoff has become an opportunity to build something I’m deeply passionate about—a business that celebrates beauty, inclusivity, and self-confidence.

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 name is TaShira Sheftal, and I am the owner and founder of Ebony and Ivory Esthetics. After over two decades in the corporate world, I decided to follow my passion for skincare and beauty. In December 2023, I graduated from Chic Image Academy, eager to create a space where people of all skin tones feel confident and cared for.

At Ebony and Ivory Esthetics, I specialize in facials and skincare treatments tailored to meet each client’s unique needs. Whether addressing skin concerns like acne, hyperpigmentation, or dryness, or offering a moment of relaxation and self-care, my goal is to help clients achieve healthy, glowing skin.

What sets my brand apart is its commitment to inclusivity. I chose the name Ebony and Ivory Esthetics to reflect my belief that beauty has no boundaries. My studio is a space where everyone is celebrated, regardless of their background or skin type.

I’m most proud of taking the leap to open my studio. Starting with no clients and just a vision has been a challenging but rewarding experience. Seeing my clients’ confidence grow after a treatment reminds me why I chose this path.

For potential clients, my mission is simple: to provide personalized skincare solutions while offering an experience that leaves you feeling refreshed, confident, and empowered. At Ebony and Ivory Esthetics, it’s more than just skincare—it’s about celebrating you.

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

Embarking on the journey of establishing Ebony and Ivory Esthetics has been filled with both challenges and triumphs. One particular experience stands out as a testament to resilience: my very first client appointment resulted in a no-show.

I had meticulously prepared for this milestone—setting up the studio, ensuring every detail was perfect, and eagerly anticipating the opportunity to showcase my skills. When the client failed to arrive, it was disheartening. However, I recognized that setbacks are part of any entrepreneurial endeavor.

This initial setback reinforced the importance of adaptability and proactive problem-solving. By refining my approach and maintaining a positive outlook, I transformed a disappointing experience into a foundation for better client relations and business practices.

Today, each appointment is not only an opportunity to provide exceptional skincare services but also a chance to build meaningful connections with clients who value and respect the commitment we share in their skincare journey.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

One important lesson I had to unlearn is that experience doesn’t always equate to ethical practices in esthetics. Early on, I trusted the advice of seasoned professionals, but I quickly realized that some suggested techniques violated ethical codes or compromised client safety. This taught me to always prioritize education, trust my instincts, and never assume that long experience guarantees the right approach. Now, I ensure that my services adhere to the highest ethical standards, putting my clients’ well-being first.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://pocketsuite.io/link/ebony-ivory-estheticsI’m
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ebony.ivory.esthetics?igsh=MTB5eWY4N3llcWNhNQ==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/15qhCz5f1R/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Yelp: https://yelp.to/42MIXJmKJh

Image Credits

Headshot Photographer: Event Heroes of Tampa Bay