On Investing In Yourself: A Conversation With Shauntavia Ward
This week, we’re preparing for the second conversation in our Money Mindsets series, a three-part conversation with local Austin leaders at the Capital One Café downtown on November 21, December 7 and December 19 exploring money setbacks, leveling up and staying financially informed.
Today, we’re publishing an interview with Shauntavia Ward about her experience launching her own facial studio within the last six month. In this Q&A, Ward reminds us to invest in ourselves.
ABOUT SHAUNTAVIA WARD:
A nurse practitioner, licensed esthetician and business savvy new founder, Shauntavia Ward is trailblazing for skincare, entrepreneurship and women's empowerment. Shauntavia is the creative mind behind eleMINT Skin, a modern facial studio that aims to bridge the gap between beauty and wellness, while inspiring people to love the skin they're in. eleMINT is redefining the facial experience through services that are inclusive, accessible, affordable and impactful.
Describe the way your business and projects have grown and/or changed within the last three to five years.
What started as an idea on paper three years ago has grown into a disruptive skincare business with a chic physical space and cult clientele in-real-life. After years of dreaming, I put my plan into action and opened eleMINT, a modern facial studio six months ago. We've not only grown our clientele from zero, but we've diversified our revenue streams through events and strategic partnerships. It's been fast growth, but we're taking notes, making changes as necessary and excited about the future.
What's a money tip or trick that you've learned recently?
Everything can be negotiated—EVERYTHING. Each dollar made within your business has to positively impact your financial bottom line. Simple negotiations involving costs of supplies and shipping fees for example, can impact your profit margin. Small savings now give you the flexibility to choose to splurge later.
What advice or lesson would you share with someone who’s at the start of doing their own thing?
Get your personal finances in check. For your first few years in business, your personal credit is your business credit. Keep it in good standing, so when an opportunity knocks, you're ready.
Designed by Danni Wright
want more?
Join us at Money Moves and Mindsets this Saturday, December 7 from 10 AM to noon at the Capital One Café to hear Ward’s story. Thanks to Capital One’s commitment to supporting women in entrepreneurship and small business owners, this event is free and open to the public with RSVP.
Can’t make it? We highly suggest learning more about our biannual conference WORK, a one-day event that presents new ideas and approaches to creative and entrepreneurial work. Hosting 300 guests every summer and winter, this biannual, one-day event's panels, workshops and speaker sessions touch on personal and professional development, marketing, wellness, business management and entrepreneurship. ✨The next WORK conference will be held in January 2020 at the University of Texas at Austin’s Rowling Hall.