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

Hi TOMEKA, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
As a child, I dreamed of owning my own business, being on billboards, and talk shows. I’ve always had a desire for more. I’ve tried entrepreneurship many times and I’ve given up many times. Before stepping out on my own this time, I had the wildest opportunity that I was not qualified for because I had absolutely no experience in the field. NONE. I was responsible for preparing an events venue and fitness center for opening. This included contracts, furnishings and decor, software, and staffing. It was a huge task for someone who was totally green to both the events and fitness industries. While doing this work, I realized what was required of me to become a successful entrepreneur… unwavering faith. I never doubted my ability to produce for my employer, because I believed God called me to it therefore He would help me do it. He did, exceptionally! I also believe God called me to entrepreneurship. These gifts and ideas come from Him, they’re His, I embody them. What I was missing before is doubtless faith in God and belief in myself. Therefore, my thought process this time was girl, you gotta believe.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

I am a makeup artist and educator. I’ve been providing professional makeup services for 4 years and have been educating for 6 months. I’m very passionate about what I do and I love every aspect of it with the exception of washing my makeup brushes, that’s the least favorite part of my job, lol.

I would say what sets me apart is I’m constantly learning and listening. Makeup techniques change daily it seems. I take classes with other artists: there’s not a day that passes that I don’t watch a reel, TikTok, or YouTube video about new products or application. I also listen to my clients needs and one thing I understand above all the things is skin. I have my Mary Kay experience to thank for that. Nearly all makeup products are skintype specific and everything doesn’t work on everyone. Therefore knowing my clients skintype and/or concerns is vital in providing the most flawless application that will last throughout their day, event, wedding, etc.

I’m where I am today because I’ve remained consistent. We use social media to sell ourselves. When I began 4 years ago, I began on social media. When I didn’t have clients, I posted looks I created on myself. If a person is not willing to grow, change, and be flexible, entrepreneurship is not for them. I’m never satisfied and I’m always open. This keeps me from becoming comfortable and complacent.

What I want the world to know about my brand is that we are extremely professional, we value customer service, offer a clean, welcoming environment, we build trust by listening to our clients needs, and aim to boost their confidence level by enhancing their God-given beauty. Makeup should not be a necessity, it’s an accessory.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

If I had a friend visiting Houston for a week we would stay at the Post Oak Hotel because it is very luxurious and elegant.

We would eat at Ruth’s Chris for steak night. The Oceanaire for seafood. Hugo’s for Mexican, and Grace’s for Saturday brunch.

For relaxation, we would go to Galveston Island and enjoy the beach, the spa at the San Luis Hotel, and great wine at Old Oleander on The Stand.

For fun, we would go to a Rockets or Astros game (depending on the session), make candles at B. Elevated Candle Bar, tour historic Houston, and go to the Houston Symphony and/or Warehouse Live.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

I would like to thank my spiritual leaders Apostle Charles & Lady Charlette Perry.

I would also like to thank my husband who loves me beyond me. He sees in me many things that I don’t always see in myself. His support of me is like fresh air and he always says just what I need to hear when I need to hear it. I love you honey!

I must thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,  because without Him, none of this would be possible. Thank You for saving me and gifting me with love and service in my heart.

Website: https://TomekaChanelMakeupArtistry.as.me/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tomeka_chanel_makeup_artistry?igsh=MWJ3b3pka3F4Z2ZmZQ==

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tomeka.blanks?mibextid=ZbWKwL

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@MakeupwithTheWordPodcast?si=zb_nSM_F19r05ylv

Image Credits
The Love Project

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.