Today we’d like to introduce you to Takara Smith.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Takara. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
What started as a prayer for my purpose to be revealed, soon turned into a side hustle that I hope to become a full-time gig. In 2014, I reached a breaking point. I felt lost, purposeless and had no idea how my life had gotten so out of control. I took a break from school and decided to spend some time with the one person who could help me, God. I began reading The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren, getting to know myself and getting to know God a little more. That summer truly changed the course of my life. I discovered my passion for beauty and understood the idea that God has placed a special gift and purpose in each of us. From blogging to YouTube, to simply having open discussions, I walked in transparency and encouraged others to take steps to not only discover their own God-given purpose but to LIVE IN IT. Today, I am a freelance make up artist (a fear I got over along my journey). God has blessed me with so many opportunities to grow as an artist and encourage others to pursue their purpose. My goal is to become a full-time makeup artist and be my own boss. Although this seems like “just a dream” and “not realistic” to some, I know who my God is and that what He has for me will be for me. I put all faith and trust in Him knowing that He has plans to prosper me and to give me hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). I don’t know about you but I don’t want to live to make a living, I want to live with a purpose and on purpose… and BEAT FACES AT THE SAME TIME.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has definitely not been a smooth road and anything worth having won’t be. Doing makeup is a learning process in and of itself so you’re going to mess up every now and then. There are so many talented people in this world and it’s easy to get discouraged or get wrapped up in comparing yourself to those around you. My advice would be to always remember that everyone’s journey is different. What happens in six months for some may happen in two years for others and that’s okay. Embrace each and every twist and turn that life throws at you and focus your mind and heart on the person who has already written your story, God. If you keep your mind on what God has for you, you may still have the same things going on around you but you’ll see them differently. Keep going. Keep pushing. Keep seeking God. He’s got you.
Please tell us about Takara Breanna Beauty.
Takara Breanna Beauty is an extension of myself. It’s one of the ways I serve others via my love for beauty and makeup. I do a multitude of makeup looks from natural, everyday makeup to full glam with bold, dramatic lashes. I’m most proud of how much I’ve grown since I began. I would never promote my work because I didn’t believe it measured up to the work of others but a wise person once told me, you can only grow and become more confident by doing. I like to lead my business with a servant attitude. Each appointment isn’t about me and what I gain, it’s about the client. Making the client feel special, welcomed and appreciated. Engaging in conversation, speaking life into them, giving them opportunities to vent or just simply have some peace and quiet. We all can use that every now and then! I don’t see clients as just clients, they’re family. It is my hope to influence each and every person I encounter in a positive way and of course, create flawless makeup looks!
There’s a wealth of academic research that suggests that lack of mentors and networking opportunities for women has materially affected the number of women in leadership roles. Smart organizations and industry leaders are working to change this, but in the meantime, do you have any advice for finding a mentor and building a network?
Utilize social media! Reach out to those who are in the position you want to be in. Connect with like-minded individuals. They don’t even have to be in the same field honestly. A referral can come from anyone, anywhere. Also, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. I know it can be nerve-wracking at times, but it’s the only way you’re going to grow organically. Good things don’t come from comfort zones.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.takarabreannabeauty.as.me
- Email: takarabreannabeauty@gmail.com
- Instagram: @takarabreanna
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Takara-Breanna-Beauty-405105796892498/?modal=admin_todo_tour
Image Credit:
Takara Smith, DSoul Fotography
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