Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in beauty and cosmetics but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Paula Heckenast, Founder of City Lights Beauty Agency, located in Tampa, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Professional makeup artistry and hair styling catering to celebrities, productions, weddings, special events, live performances, and more.
Tell us about yourself
In 2006 I gave a friend a ride to a makeup school orientation. Makeup was something I’ve always been good at. I had no idea that it was possible to make a real living doing makeup until that day. I decided to sign up too and worked a full-time job until 2012 when I was able to spread my wings and take the chance on myself to make my passion into my full-time gig. I remember spending countless nights talking off the ears of my friends about how I couldn’t wait to be able to do makeup full-time.
I stay motivated to do what I do because I’m able to make a living and impact the lives of many women showing them just how beautiful they really are. There are times I have clients cry tears of joy in my chair, and there’s nothing more rewarding than that!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I picked up my daughter, our two cats, and our poodle and relocated to Tampa from Chicago in March 2021 with nothing but a passion to fuel the way. I was tired of living in the cold Midwest and often vacationed in Florida, each time asking myself, “why don’t I live here?” Having built such a name for myself in Chicago over the years, it was a scary move, but I did it! I’m thriving in my new environment and even hired a full-time assistant this past spring!
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Work-life management is by far my biggest struggle. I simply cannot shut off my mind and set clear boundaries on when it’s “okay” for me to relax. Something always needs to be done, so there’s always that little voice in my head making me feel lazy for not working more. It’s currently midnight, and I was in the middle of playing a video game after a long day when I got the invite for this interview… well, here I am working on it.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Make sure it’s something you LIKE doing. You’ll be doing a lot of it.
- Decide that you will be successful, and don’t go back on your word to yourself. Whatever means necessary, action needs to be taken every day.
- Invest in growth. Calculated risks are great. Hiring an assistant was something I put off for a very long time; I wish I hadn’t waited so long!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://citylightsmakeup.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/citylightsbeauty/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulathehbic/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MUAchicago
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulaheckenast/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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