Meet Rika Lee | Health Administrative Specialist & MUA

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

Hi Rika, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
Graced Faces MUA LLC was created when I was a freshman in college! As I pursued my degree at PVAMU I developed a love and passion for make up and beauty. The process and transformation of seeing one’s beauty become so enhanced that it made them feel even more beautiful, made me feel like a super hero. It’s honestly a blessing to have the skills to pursue and witness that “wow” moment. The skills came to me so naturally that becoming a makeup artist and starting a makeup business was simply a no brainer for me! Doing makeup is a art not just for myself but for everyone! It takes time and dedication!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am where I am today by Gods Grace. When he gave me this vision I would pray each night for him to work through me to bring forth the plan he has for my business. When I would pray about how he wanted me to execute this vision, a scripture would always come to mind that says, And the Lord answered me, “Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it. For the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end, it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay. ” Habakkuk 2:2-3.

My plan for my business has always been centered around God giving me the grace and tenacity to flourish and turn a hobby into a career and business that I love, while always keeping his grace for me in mind. That is how I birthed my business name, Graced Faces MUA LLC. The road to where I am today was not easy, but I appreciate all the “No’s”, closed doors, and obstacles that attempted to stand in my way, but I prevailed. It has made me the strong, determined business woman I have grown to be. He has truly set forth a plan that is tailored for me, and in the words of my sister “I am tailored to win!” The main lessons I have learned is to stay persistent, never let anyone or anything discourage to give up. Look fear in the face and say I can and I will! Balance is key, as well as staying organized and remaining professional in any situation presented.

My business has become very successful since we’ve launched. With years of artistry experience I am intrigued and dedicated to meeting needs of every client while providing the Ultimate Graced Experience. Servicing the Houston and surrounding areas, we offer every occasion makeup application with different services you can choose from, Soft Glam, Graced Glam, Bridal services, Graduation, Maternity, Birthdays etc. We also teach Private Group Make up classes as well as Private 1:1 courses. You are sure to get the knowledge and tools you need to learn how to grace your face in these courses! All makeup services and courses can be viewed on our website at www.gracedfacesmua.com.

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?
If I had a friend from out of town come to visit, an ideal day out would look a lot like a fun girls day out! First we would book a room at Houston’s most popular hotel Marriott Marquis known for their signature Texas shaped lazy river! The rooms are amazing, the pools are great and the overall experience is a must have. Next we would go to brunch at Lost and Found. The vibes are great, food is delicious, drinks are amazing and they also have hookah. Of course us ladies like to take great pictures for content and they have a great floral backdrop and view. Next we would go sight seeing around downtown Houston. Go for a dip in the lazy river back at the hotel. Relax, have drinks and enjoy the good sun! Then we would freshen up to get ready for a great night out! First stop would be Post Houston. It’s new and they have great multi culture restaurants and a great rooftop view of the downtown Houston skyline! Next we would head to the peddle party bike to get an experience to bar hop and also have fun touring the midtown area on a group activity bike with music and byob! We would then finish the night at one of my favorite spots, The Address. A great night club where you are sure to have a great time!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My shout out series will be dedicated to all of my first time and continuous clients who have trusted me enough to grace their face! To my everyday clients thank you for allowing me to be your MUA and maintain the many positive relationships that I thrive to have with each client! I would also like to dedicate my excel to my friends and family who believed and uplifted me when I questioned myself. They push me, critique me, and at times when I feel a weight on my shoulders, they speak so much life that gives me the courage and strength to keep going! For you guys, I am Thankful!

Thank you God for giving me the vision and plan that started it all. Everyday I pray that he gives me the courage, faith and perseverance to carry out the master plan he has for me.

Lastly, I would like to dedicate this to my son. He has no clue how much he has motivated me to stay focused, persistent, and taught me how to balance a full time career, business, social life and still be a great, present, single mother. He has been with me every step of the way showing me that I can’t stop here, more is to come, and that there is so much ahead of me if I remain focused and still enjoy what I do.

I want him to grow up and be able to say my mom was a true go getter, she did not stop at mediocre and she was dedicated. She was happy, enjoyed her craft, at peace and still had more love and time to give me. That is my true desire in the end while maintaining a successful business, that I also maintain a great balance of family.

Website: www.gracedfacesmua.com

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Image Credits
ELNJ PHOTOGRAPHY