Meet Candace Shaw | Cosmetologist & Wax specialist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Candace Shaw and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Candace, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I’ve always wanted to be an entrepreneur but I never had confidence in myself. Everyone would tell me I was more than capable but I was so hard on myself and scared of failing. Then one day I woke up and I told myself I was tired of making companies successful and in the meantime I’m getting pennies. I knew it was time. I knew it would be difficult and I was afraid of failing but I literally talked myself up and I just stepped out on faith and did it. It’s slow and steady but it’s coming alone. I’m booking people and I’m grateful for that, even if it’s just one person a day it’s a blessing.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a very pleasant person, the service I provide is very personal. I want people to feel comfortable around me. I don’t want them to feel like I’m judging them or rushing them just to make money. I take pride in what I do and I create a very comfortable environment for whoever books any service with me. I love when clients leave reviews mentioning how I made them feel comfortable. I really take pride in being a that person that you feel comfortable enough to talk to.

I have been a licensed cosmetologist for 14 yrs, I’ve worked at salons, wax center and lash companies. Every place I have been employed gave me some type of knowledge I could take with me while venturing out and working for myself. It wasn’t always easy but I was taught that everything that happens in life is a learning experience. I always overcame challenges knowing that there was light at the end of the tunnel, I know it sounds cliché but that saying really pushes me to keep moving even through dark times.

Throughout this business journey I’m on I’ve learned that sometimes the only thing that’s holding us back is lack of confidence. Sometimes we’re our own worse critics.

I just want everyone to know that being your own boss is a humbling experience. I’m still on my journey to success and although I feel like giving up every other day, I’m going to keep going. So come through and support me.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
This is so hard because I don’t do much anymore. I have kids so I’m always doing kid activities. However, if my friend is coming to town its time to TURN UP. I’ve been in California for a little bit so I’m a bit rusty but my kind of friends are real chill but Houston has so many good places to eat and socialize, I would show them around downtown and take them to the Aquarium, then go to James Harden restaurant thirteen. Take them to the breakfast club after a night of hookah and drinks. Phil and Derek’s for brunch on the weekend. You can’t forget the galleria that’s always a site to see. You can’t forget about the turkey leg hut if you want some food that will put you to sleep. Prospect park for a chill little spot to mingle and have a drink. Museum district if they’re feeling a little artistic. City center and eat sushi at Ra sushi. Ride bikes around one of the many trails we have across Houston. It’s so much to do in Houston from eating good food, night life and even stuff to do if you want a chill type of vibe. I can literally go on and on.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have so many inspirations. Wanting to be an example to my kids inspired me. I saw so many successful Women with kids working hard and succeeding I knew it wasn’t impossible. I’ve always been in the beauty industry but I’ve always worked for someone, I didn’t see myself venturing out, I felt like it was too far fetched. I didn’t know where to begin but a childhood friend came back into my life and I physically saw her running so many successful businesses while being a Mom and a wife and that was so inspiring.

My Mom! She passed way 10 years ago but her words of wisdom still lives in my heart, she was always encouraging me to be my own boss and to do what makes me happy. She was a cosmetologist, she was so precise when it came to doing hair, whenever she was done there wasn’t a hair out of place and EVERYONE loved her. I miss her and I have always been inspired by her drive. She was a teenage Mom literally traveling to clients house to make it happen.

I also want to shoutout my sisters, Dad and boyfriend for encouraging me to do what I love. Without judgement and negativity. It’s 100% certain that whatever I need I can always count on them to come through.

Instagram: @waxlashbeyond

Other: StyleSeat.com/candaceshaw