An Inspired Chat with Ruby Iqbal of Dacula, Buford

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Ruby Iqbal . Check out our conversation below.

Ruby , a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, I’ve been finding joy in music, spiritual books, and exploring natural remedies. These simple practices lift my spirit, deepen my peace, and keep me connected to balance and growth outside of work.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a professional hairdresser and freelance makeup artist, working under Meraki Studio and my own makeup brand. My work spans bridal makeup, fashion shows, movie sets, teasers, and collaborations with photographers, as well as volunteer work for various non-profit organizations. I specialize in creating beautiful looks for all skin types, particularly for weddings and special occasions.
As a hairdresser, I’ve worked with a range of clients and companies, and recently I’ve found a passion for working with seniors. Helping them feel youthful, cared for, and beautiful brings me true satisfaction.
My journey has been shaped by a lifetime of hard work and resilience. I’ve faced health challenges, and as I continue to recover, I channel that experience into my work, helping others feel confident and radiant in their own journeys.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I didn’t grow up with my parents, and that made my childhood very difficult. I married young, and at that time I didn’t truly recognize my own potential. For a long time, I believed I wasn’t capable of achieving much on my own. But marriage changed that… my husband gave me love, confidence, and the encouragement to start exploring myself. Later, in my 30s, my family supported me in following my passion for makeup, and I discovered just how much I was capable of. Today, I no longer doubt my potential. I know I can create, achieve, and inspire.

What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering has taught me lessons that success never could. My life has been a bumpy ride filled with many challenges… different jobs, constant struggles, and most of all, a serious health challenge that completely changed me. Through it, I learned to heal myself not only physically, but also spiritually. It showed me that health is more important than anything else and taught me to live with gratitude.
Suffering also revealed that while people can support you along the way, the journey of healing and growth is ultimately one you must walk alone. It’s a lonely road at times, but it pushes you to improve, to change, and to recognize your own strength. Success never gave me that kind of self-awareness… suffering did.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
I strive to be the same person inside and out… authenticity is everything to me. That commitment to honesty is especially important in my work with seniors, where patience, respect, and genuine care make a real difference. I believe in showing up with the same heart I feel inside, and that consistency is what lets people recognize and trust the person I truly am.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
If I were to retire tomorrow, my customers would miss more than just the hair or makeup… they would miss the relationships we’ve built. Over time, we become like family, sharing emotions, stories, and feelings. They would miss the attention, care, and unconditional love I give to each of them. For me, it has never been just about the work… it’s about the deep connections and trust we create together.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @meraki.makeup
• Facebook: Meraki Makeup
• Other: Tik tok: meraki_makeup1, healthbyruby

Image Credits
Ruby Iqbal, Sarah Iqbal