Today we’d like to introduce you to Eniya Clay.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I didn’t make a lot of friends in high school, partially because I was homeschooled, but I have always longed for a sense of community. After graduating, I planned and plotted on how I would find my community, and I realized how easy it was for me to connect with others when talking about beauty. I have never really been a beauty guru, but I was one of many who loved how beauty enhancements made me feel. By January 2023, Clay’s Collection LLC was founded on the idea of low-maintenance beauty. Beauty has always felt like an unachievable goal. Every day there’s a new style or trend to compete with. CC is a safe place for everyone to explore and find their confidence. My first collection drop included various press-on nails and lash sets, eyeshadow palettes, braiding hair, and numerous accessories. Then in March, I had my first brand photoshoot, which was a collaboration with a friend’s clothing brand. Three months later, I dropped my most recent collection, EXTENDO BLING. This collection was specifically press-on sets designed for people who love long dramatic sets. After participating in multiple pop-up shops, I gained valuable feedback about what my customers actually wanted. Now I am continuously doing research and interacting with my followers to build my own beautiful community.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
This road has been far from smooth. I have had so many ideas but did not know what to do with them. I really struggled with not trying to pursue everything at once. I want my business to feel like an elevated online beauty supply store; however, after starting CC, I realized how much time, energy, and money that was going to take realistically. I’ve had many ‘first times’ with my business, and I am sure I will have many more. I wholeheartedly appreciate the lady who owned the shipping center store by my house. The first time I went to ship a package, she gave me an abundance of information that I still utilize to this day.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am always a creative first and a business owner next. I specialize in durable acrylic press-on nails, which is what I am most known for right now. I am exceptionally proud of all the shoots I have put together within the past year. I am proud to call myself the creative director behind all my projects, and I will continue to be. Having a community means making sure everyone’s being heard and their needs are being met. So it is important to me to check in with previous customers and ensure that they are satisfied with their purchase. I also enjoy creating and hosting events by CC that’s open to the public so I can physically see who is interested in my products.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Taking risks is undoubtedly terrifying, but it is absolutely necessary if you want to accomplish something you have never done before. I think pop-up shops pose some risks because there is no guarantee of you making your return of what you spent to be there. It has definitely happened to me before, but I know I am still leaving with something, whether that be knowledge, a new friend, or exposure. I have risked working with many people, and it not ending well. Those times have taught me that everyone is not reliable so you have to be able to rely on yourself.
Pricing:
- Press-On sets $55-$80
- Bulk Braiding Hair 20pcks – $80
Contact Info:
- Website: https://clayclltn.myshopify.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clayclltn/
Image Credits
Eniya Clay Elijah John
