Today we’d like to introduce you to Genesis Stewart.
Genesis, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I am an entrepreneur. My journey of being self-employed started in early 2016 when I decided to quit my “regular” job, simply because I felt like I had no control over my daily life anymore. I went from being a part-time Uber driver to full time after quitting my day job. This had been one of the best decisions I had made for myself and for my life. At this point, I not only was fully in control and able to accomplish more goals but I was the boss! I love to drive and I loved learning about Atlanta, being that I am from Los Angeles, CA. I soon began to find interest in lash extensions because I had been getting mine done for a while and they had been getting more popular as well. Although I was interested in learning how to do lashes, I never really looked into being trained. My lash tech at the time was one of the few trainers in Atlanta but I could not afford her training so I didn’t pursue it.
To my surprise, I was asked and offered to be trained for not only a lessor value but also given a job working in a shop in one of Atlanta’s busiest areas (Castleberry Hills/Peter Street). I took the offer and I had finally found my niche. I practiced my craft as much as possible and once I got comfortable I created my first business (Lashed By Gen) and eventually started booking appointments. As I progressed in the lash game, I soon found another interest. Skin Care! Growing up, I did not have the smoothest, most clear skin. I would often research remedies and create masks at home and hope for results. I was never really into beauty but it definitely found its way to me. I was eager to learn more and decided to do my research on a few Atlanta Esthetic schools. I found one closest to me, made an adult decision and took a trip to Georgia Career Institute. I fell in love with the school as soon as I arrived and I just knew, ” This is what I want to do!” I made the decision to enroll in school regardless of the things I felt would hold me back. I knew that I would have to fight and sacrifice a lot to do something like this but I knew God would be on my side, no matter what!
I started Esthetics school in June 2017 while still being a self-employed Uber driver and running a growing lash business. I pushed through my 1-year Esthetician program and was licensed in June 2018. There were many times that I did not know how I was going to do it but this was for me, so I had to keep pushing no matter what. Becoming an Esthetician and creating The Gentle Touch is one of my biggest accomplishments and I am grateful for everything I went through to get to the happy place I am today with my business.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Being a businesswoman/owner has not been completely smooth. It’s similar to being on a roller coaster, certain parts of the ride are smooth while others are pretty scary. I am more than a business owner so if there is no balance in the things going on in my life, it can be stressful. Starting out, client consistency, product consistency, and no motivation were all the struggles I endured. Personally, everything I’ve done has been trial and error, with research of course. You won’t know if something works or not if you don’t try it. Once you try a few things out and find what works for YOU, you will notice a huge change, not only in your business but confidence in self.
I advise women to focus on their own journey! Don’t compare, You are your competition, figure out how you can be better. Support those who support you and don’t seek validation!
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am a Licensed Esthetician or in simpler terms, Skin Specialist. Some may also say, Lash Artist. I am known for doing very precise Eyelash Extensions. I offer Classic, Hybrid and Volume Lash Extensions, 1 on 1 Lash Training, Full Body Waxing, Body Treatments, and Facials are COMING SOON! I am extremely proud of my growth from where I began to this point in my career. Having a business has changed my whole perspective on life and how I live. I am grateful and blessed to be able to provide services to people from all walks of life. I believe what sets me apart from others is that I genuinely care about the health of a client more than the money they are giving. I like to educate my clients, whether it’s about lashes, skin care or body waxing. If I don’t know something, I will look it up and we will learn together. I love learning new things that can benefit not only me but my clients as well.
What do you feel are the biggest barriers today to female leadership, in your industry or generally?
In my industry specifically, I notice jealousy and comparison a lot. I learned this as a new lash tech working in a shop full of lash techs. It seems like women can’t do the same thing and support each other. I truly believe that it’s a selfish world out here. Communication is also a huge barrier to female leadership.
Pricing:
- The Gentle Touch 1 on 1 Lash Training- $450 ($200 deposit)
- Classic Lash Extensions- $65-$85
- Back Treatment- $25 (special)
- Eyebrow Tint/ Wax/Tweeze- $10-$15
Contact Info:
- Address: 2900 Chamblee Tucker Rd.
Atlanta, GA - Website: lashedbygen.as.me/
- Phone: 6786139641
- Email: gennybadu@gmail.com
- Instagram: @_thegentletouch
- Other: @_thegentletouch24
Image Credit:
Genesis Stewart
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