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

Hi Nicole, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Initially, I didn’t consider starting my own business , I was pretty much approached with a paid opportunity to take on clientele, and I accepted. It was from that point on that I embraced the thought of creating a brand experience for clients that would ultimately birth the start of my business .

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I created two brands Impeccable Beauty (makeup artistry ) which provides soft glam makeup for media (photography and videography) and bridal clients. We offer concierge services for clients who prefer a catered experience of artist arriving on site to service their beauty needs . I also created THE MUA (Make-Up Artist ) CLUB , to help new artist thrive in business by offering mentorship , support , networking opportunities and providing beauty products to help with work efficiency . What sets me aside from any other beauty professional in my city is , I focus on education and client experience (feedback ) in both of my brands …for a better customer experience . I’ve come a long way in my journey . I got where I am today by being consistent and staying true to my niche, Being original in my artistry and listening to what my client love about my brands so I can consistently deliver that. It has not been an easy road. Full time entrepreneurship requires a lot of self discipline , funding , and a foul proof plan . There were times when I was reinvesting all of my business funds back into my brands so that I can continue to grow . This meant I was literally broke . I think that’s the side of entrepreneurship no one really likes to talk about …How much sacrifice time and dedication it takes . It’s really not for the weak , you have to be strong to survive this journey and dedicated to your business. I have learned so many lessons along the way . One being you must prepare . Having a plan is the key to a great start and a strong finish. Whether you’re writing goals down or drafting detailed business plans. The second major lesson I’ve learned along the way is to ask for help . You cannot do everything by yourself you will need help along the way in order to grow to the next level . The last major lesson I’ve learned is to know my numbers … a lot of business owners neglect having an organized financial system in place and this ultimately will be the demise of a growing business . I want the world to know that I dedicated to my brands … that my businesses are community focused .and We take service providing serious. The client is our top priority at Impeccable Beauty and THE MUA CLUB. We just released our first product with THE MUA CLUB called the Complexion Case ( to help store your complexion products such as foundations concealers brushes and face powders ) and we can’t wait to bring you more efficient products .

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting the area I would take them to eat at taste bar kitchen (they have the best lamp chops ) , we would brunch at Glorias , have day drinks at HER lounge , pass by nomad and grab a day time hookah and check out the seismique museum for some photography fun !

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to shout out my best friend April Smith for always pushing me to my highest potential and at times seeing my struggle but stepping in to make sure I still accomplish my goals , the Houston Business Bestie society for making a platform that help so many women entrepreneurs thrive with support, resources, friendship in business and networking opportunities , and myself because I push myself to be the best I can be in a daily , while still trying to motivate and inspire others to do the same.

Website: Www.themuaclub.com

Instagram: Instagram.com/the_mua_club

Other: Instagram.com/theimpeccablebeauty

Image Credits
Spike the designer

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.