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

Vanessa, appreciate you joining us today. Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.

Opening my own studio was a bit of a risk! Originally I was hoping to share a space with a fellow esthetician, but when that didn’t work out I decided to pursue a solo option. I remembered that there was a spa room inside of Cos Bar (a luxury beauty retailer downtown), so I reached out to the manager. The room had been left mainly unused for a few years. She was open to renting out the space, and so I went for it! One thing I’ve learned in business; you often need to create your own opportunities, you never know what can happen until you put yourself out there and try.

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

I began working in the beauty industry after college. I started as a salon receptionist and then got hired as a freelance makeup artist with MAC cosmetics. That began a long career in makeup and my company Bee Pretty was established. After relocating from California in 2021, I rebranded and opened my first studio downtown. I offer a variety of skin care treatments, eyebrow design and lash services. You can also book me for a makeup lesson inside of Cos Bar or onsite for event makeup. My background in makeup artistry has helped me to become a better esthetician. I’ve developed an attention to detail that allows me to excel at brow design. As a makeup artist I know how important it is to have healthy, hydrated skin for a seamless makeup application. I always seek to achieve a glowy finish at the end of each facial. I even created “The Glow Bomb” facial just for brides!

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

Networking within the community and receiving client and vendor referrals. It’s important to get involved and support the unique demands of our local industry.

How did you build your audience on social media?

I am still working on growing my social media presence. One strategy I’ve implemented is working with content creators to capture videos of my services so I have quality content vs. what I would be able to produce myself. I think it’s always beneficial to work with professionals whenever possible.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.beepretty.net/
• Instagram: @beeprettyesthetics
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Beeprettymakeup/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/bee-pretty-charleston?osq=bee+pretty
• Other: https://bee-pretty-llc.square.site

Image Credits

@alexandrajoyphotography