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

Hi Jessica, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
After years of working in healthcare, raising my family, and opening several small businesses I decided that it was time to fuel my passion and dive in 100%. It was time for a big change!

I was tired of being over worked, under valued and being forced to request time off to spend with my family. All while making money for someone else’s business.

I knew that I needed to bet on myself and that the payoff would be greater than any amount of money someone could ever offer me.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
As with every other small business owner, we are dependent on creating our stream of income ourselves. Building our brand, being transparent with our clients, setting a standard for our clients, and constantly connecting with people within our community.

I think one of the most important pieces of my success has been my integrity. I always treat my clients like I want to be treated. I push myself to be better than yesterday. I invest in myself, in continuing education, and I love sharing my knowledge with others. I’m a firm believer that I am my own competition and that’s my focus. I value my clients trust more than I value money and that’s what is sets me apart from others.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Every time I have guests from out of town I have a few staples in the community that I like to visit. Of course we will likely start the morning off with a coffee and pastry from Humble Grounds coffeehouse, followed by some local plant shopping at Enchanted Gardens or Freddie Reyes Greenhouses. Most likely we will attend one of Sugarberry cookie shops cookie decorating classes, go for a drink at Halo Brewing company, and dinner at Anthonie’s Market Grill. I love driving them around the area, showing them some of my favorite small business like Willie B’s in East Bernard, or the vintage shops in downtown Rosenberg. I love showing them around to all my favorite local spots and of course ending the trip with a visit to Buc-ee’s.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My success is not only by the grace of God, but also due to the tremendous dedication and support of my husband.

I sometimes look at our life and think of us as a balancing act in a circus. Over the years he has been willing to solo parent when I’m putting in long hours at the studio, or change his schedule so I can attend networking events. He’s the muscle behind all of my ideas, never saying no to unboxing or lifting heavy items for my studio.

He’s my largest supporter and I am truly grateful for his continued support. He’s always there to build me up, even when I’m my own worst critic. He encourages me to learn new techniques, attend trainings, take time to focus on my skills, and gives me the space I need to build my brand/business. Not to mention the countless hours of me babbling about eyebrows or tattoos!

In addition to my husband, I have been blessed with the most amazing friends and clients who continue to support me. For that, I am forever grateful!

Website: https://www.distinctivestrokes.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/distinctivestrokes

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Distinctivestrokes?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Yelp: https://m.yelp.com/biz/distinctive-strokes-richmond

Image Credits
Photo: Amanda Migues Photography
Hair & Makeup: Brandi Ann Beauty

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.