Melanie Cepeda is a rock star artist who is killing it with her business, NOVAbrows, located in Falls Church and Stafford, Virginia.
I sat down with Melanie during her most recent trip to Orlando to talk all about permanent makeup and microblading, specifically owning a permanent makeup business. Here’s what she had to say:
1. How Many Different Hats You Have to Wear
You are not just an artist, you’re not just learning the skill and creating beautiful brows or beautiful permanent makeup, you also have to know about websites, google ads, video editing, photo editing, just so many things you have to know.”
2. Be consistent with your marketing
One thing I’ve struggled with is backing up on my marketing and advertising when I’m having good months, and when I’ve done that I notice things slowing down, so that back and forth is not good for your business. Be consistent with your marketing even if you’re having good or bad months.
3. Take care of your body
This one is very important and I know it now because I suffer and it is taking care of your joints, back and neck. I’ve developed arthritis on my neck and it’s not fun. I have to go to the chiropractor every week and I’m constantly trying out different contraptions to see what’s going to alleviate the pain.
4. Practice the art of psychology with your clients
Dealing with your clientele is the most important aspect of doing this, because you could be fantastic at what you do but if you don’t have that customer service piece where you’re being empathetic and understanding to really work with your clientele, you’re not going to get good reviews, repeat customers, recommendations. That’s a huge piece. We work with a lot of different personalities and it can be challenging especially when you’re doing something new to their face and they are not used to seeing themselves in that way.
5. Permanent Makeup can be very lucrative
In itself, permanent makeup can be more lucrative than many other careers, even if you don’t add other services. I mostly do eyebrows and I’ve been lucky enough to generate 6 figures doing it. I make more money now than being a nurse and I manage my own time.
What do you think of Melanie’s recommendations?
Follow her on Instagram at @NovaBrows