Today we’d like to introduce you to C’Lena Ford.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started off doing nails for fun when I was younger. I’ve always been interested in the beauty industry. Hair, nails, makeup, etc. I started leaning more towards nails when I realized it brought me comfort. No matter what it was, I always felt at my happiest when I was providing a service to help someone else. After a couple of years went by, I found myself getting more interested in individual lashes. It was very popular when I first started and I knew that if I learned how to do them myself I could also provide that skill for my community. Not many people in my area even knew what it was or how it worked. Not only was I doing nails, at this point, but I was also able to introduce lash extensions. I love to learn new things every day. If I put my mind to it, no doubt about it, I’m going to get it done. There’s so much I’ve learned in this industry and there’s SO much more I want to work on. I decided to broaden my horizons and go for it. I mean why not? What is there to lose? The sight of seeing my clients leave with smiles on their faces is enough satisfaction for me.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
In all honesty, this journey of mine has not been easy what so ever. I have had so many people doubting my “little business” it gave me zero hope to even want to continue doing what I love. It was a point where I stopped doing nails and lashes because I felt so discouraged and frustrated. A couple of months later, I realized I was only making the people who doubted me happy. If you are starting up any type of business or brand for yourself… do it for YOURSELF. Don’t give up, no matter how slow it might be in the beginning. The journey will get easier, I promise just whatever you do, keep going.
What should we know about ClenaChristineBeauty? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I am a certified lash tech and a self-taught nail tech. I get so much pleasure from doing nails and lashes. Being able to create something from a blank canvas is amazing. I’ve come a really long way from where I first started off and I’m very proud of myself and most importantly my work. This was never just a “hobby” for me, it’s always been a passion. I was told to never do something for the rest of your life if you don’t love it. I can definitely see myself being in this industry for a very long time.
Looking back on your childhood, what experiences do you feel played an important role in shaping the person you grew up to be?
When I was younger, I always looked up to older people in the public eye. One thing that always stood out to me was their beauty. The way they carried themselves, the makeup they had on. It just always caught my attention. I finally started asking myself “Why can’t I create those looks on myself, the people around me or even for celebrities one day?”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://clenachristinebeauty.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?ig_ix=true
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/clenachristinebeauty?igshid=q4f25xmrg8i5
Image Credit:
ClenaChristineBeauty
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