Touched By Angel

Life often takes us on unexpected paths. Angelicia Smith, founder and creative director of Q’rative Beauty, has lived this reality. This 27-year-old beauty found her calling through an unfortunate twist of events. Her story is awe-inspiring and will give you the motivation necessary to pursue your dreams despite life’s challenges.

Why Q’rative Beauty?

I was diagnosed with scleroderma around 2008. Scleroderma is a chronic connective tissue disease that causes hardening of the skin. Signs of the disease began appearing when I was 17 years old and were evident as random dark legions appeared on my body. The diagnosis rocked my world. I became a recluse for over a year because my appearance drastically changed. My self-esteem plummeted, and I was ready to live as a hermit.

I began experimenting with makeup first to hide the legions. My makeup dabbling continued when I began studying dance at the Edna Manley School for the Visual and Performing Arts. My passion for the artistry grew and I began viewing the face as a clean canvas for enhancing beauty.

After graduating, I began my career in makeup artistry at a local store. Q’rative Beauty was born soon after. I offer brow epilatory services, makeup applications, makeup consultations and training services. Being my own boss has changed my life.

If you could describe your business in one word, what would that word be?

Compassionate. Makeup can be a form of expression and comfort. I always strive to help people feel more comfortable by looking like a better version of themselves. My skin condition has given me first-hand knowledge of how makeup can boost confidence. Therefore, I empathize with people who want to conceal their blemishes or highlight their best features. I love helping people…it helps me sleep better at night.

What is the greatest challenge you’ve faced?

Resigning from my job on a whim was the toughest decision I’ve made thus far. I resigned not knowing what would happen in the future. It was like diving into the deep-end without knowing if I could really swim.

Despite the fear, it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I enjoy being my own boss and helping people the way I desire. I love giving each client my undivided attention and a highly detailed result.

Who inspires you and why?

Mario Devanovich is my greatest inspiration. He’s Kim Kardashian-West’s makeup artist, but he wasn’t born with a golden spoon in his mouth. He worked his way up… moving from sharing a bed with his 3 siblings to being one of the most respected makeup artists in the industry.

His agents told him not to take the job with Kim Kardashian because of the controversy that surrounded her at the time. Their opinions didn’t matter; he took the job. The rest is history. This decision transformed his life and taught me that I should always press forward. There will always be naysayers, but what I believe in my heart is what matters most.

What philosophy to do you live by?

I live by two philosophies which are closely related. The first is “Change your thinking, change your world.” I strongly believe that if you think positively and put your faith in God, your life will change. When she was going to beauty school and not earning an income she told her mother that she should get all the sleep she needed now because she’d have little time for sleep in the future. She’s now experiencing this reality.

The second is, “Life is only as good as your mindset.” Good things happen when you put in the work and think positively. You should do something each day towards making your dream real.

Finally, I have a motto that I fervently believe in and live by. It’s 3 words: loyalty, integrity, and humility.

What tips would you give to other women trying to start their own businesses?

Ensure that you’re passionate about what you do. I’ve questioned my career choice several times. However, each time I start working I know why I chose it. Degrees can give you money and money is important, but passion is what really matters. Your passion is what you’ll willingly wake up at 2 am to do. Don’t start a business you aren’t passionate about. Push yourself to pursue your passion.