We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Tierra Ravenell. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Tierra below.
Tierra, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. 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’ve found so much happiness in being a business owner—I truly enjoy the freedom it gives me. For a while, I tried balancing my business with a 9–5 job because I thought it would provide more security during slower seasons. But after having my baby, my priorities shifted. I wanted the flexibility to be there for him whenever he needed me.
Going back to a traditional job became stressful, and I often felt like my role as a mother wasn’t fully respected. I worked for about nine months after having my son before I lost my job. At the time, I was devastated—but looking back, I realize I had become too comfortable and wasn’t truly happy.
Since then, everything has fallen into place. I’ve experienced so much growth, both personally and professionally, and I have a greater sense of peace. I’ve poured all my energy into my business, focusing on promoting myself and building my brand—and it’s been flourishing. I can confidently say I wouldn’t go back to a 9–5.
Tierra, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m a licensed esthetician specializing in full-body waxing, offering waxing services from head to toe. In addition to waxing, I also provide brow enhancements such as tinting and laminations. I sell a variety of accessories, including eyelashes, sunglasses, lip gloss, phone cases, and more.
I was drawn to this industry because of my passion for skincare, my love for connecting with people, and my desire to help others look and feel their best. What sets me apart is the pride I take in my work and the genuine relationships I build with my clients. Many of them have been with me since the very beginning, which means a lot—especially considering I was still growing and learning when I first started, yet they continued to trust me.
What I’m most proud of is my ability to consistently provide exceptional customer service and maintain long-lasting client relationships. My clients are the reason I keep going, and their continued support and referrals mean everything to me.
Can you open up about how you funded your business?
I was able to put together my initial capital during COVID. While many people were out of work and receiving financial assistance in different forms, my situation was a bit different. At the time, I worked for a mass communications company, so I continued working throughout the pandemic. Many of my coworkers, especially those considered high-risk, stayed home, but those of us who remained on the job were offered extra incentives and bonuses just for coming in.
I took advantage of that opportunity and saved as much as I could during that time. Those savings ultimately allowed me to start my business.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
The most effective way I’ve grown my clientele—outside of referrals—has been through social media. With TikTok becoming the new go-to search platform, I started using it to post content and specifically target people in my area. It’s made a huge difference, and I’ve seen a significant increase in new clients because of it.
The only challenge is staying consistent. I need to be more intentional about setting aside time to create content and remembering to regularly film or take photos of my work.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.thewaxwhisper.as.me
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewaxwhisper
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LavishBeautyQueen
- Linkedin: Tierra Ravenell
- Other: TikTok: _thewaxwhisper
Image Credits
Elizabeth Rivers (Start With A Plan)