Today we’d like to introduce you to Nia Ford
Nia, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My interest in beauty was sparked during my freshman year of college in 2017. I started my makeup page, Nia’s Lewks, in 2018 and began posting different makeup looks that inspired me on Instagram. As my skills grew, I became increasingly interested in doing makeup for others. I started practicing on people in my dorm. My journey to where I am today is a testament to alignment and divine timing.
In 2018, I also began exploring personal self-care services such as facials and manicures, and found a place to get my brows threaded. I started seeing my now mentor for brow threading that year. As our client-service provider relationship grew, so did her business. She noticed my makeup skills and engaging personality on Instagram and offered me a job as a receptionist. Shortly after being hired, I was promoted and trained to become a brow threading service provider.
I worked at the first Black-owned standalone brow studio in Saint Paul for about two and a half years. During my time at Omari Brow Studio, I was able to hone my craft under a master threader. I was also fortunate enough to receive my lash technician license in 2019 and my esthetician license in May 2021. Although the shop unfortunately closed, I decided to continue offering beauty services.
In August 2021, I officially started Nia’s Lewks, and I have been running the business ever since.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Business has been a rollercoaster, but I am grateful for the ride and for where I am today. Some of the struggles I face involve trying new things and failing multiple times until I get it right, especially when it comes to the financial side of things. As a business owner, I love providing services, but I also have to wear many hats: content creator, accountant, maintenance, operations manager, and ultimately the sole decision-maker for the business. It can be challenging to gain knowledge in all these areas that require attention. Entrepreneurship is not for everyone, but I thrive on the challenges and successes that come with running this business. Fortunately, I have an amazing support system behind me.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m your go-to girl for all things brows and lashes! Known for my expertise in brow threading, I’ve been perfecting this craft the longest. I view my work as art; shaping brows is like creating a masterpiece from a blank canvas. In addition to threading, I offer brow laminations, tints, and waxing.
As of September 2023, I’m also a licensed tattoo artist specializing in Ombré Powder brows. This temporary brow tattoo creates a beautiful gradient effect, making brows look perfectly filled in.
When it comes to lashes, I provide a range of services, including lash lifts, tints, and extensions. My focus is always on enhancing the natural beauty of my clients. Whether it’s brows or lashes, I’m dedicated to bringing out the best in every individual.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
As I am constantly looking to grow my business, I know that any type of expansion can be risky. Last year, I decided to add a new service to my list: permanent makeup. This was a significant investment, involving costs for the initial class, supplies, licenses, certificates, insurance, and an apprenticeship. It required a lot of money and time to perfect the craft of permanent makeup, but I have no regrets. Despite the financial and time commitments, I love providing this service and have gained a whole new clientele because of it.
Exciting developments are also on the horizon as I partner up and move into a larger space this year. My goal is to continue growing in my craft and to start teaching classes, for which a bigger space is essential. While I understand that some clients may not follow, I believe this step is crucial for the growth of my business. I’m super exited to see what will come and confident that this will be an amazing collaboration.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.niaslewks.com
- Instagram: https://Www.instagram.com/niaslewks
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071592857587&mibextid=LQQJ4d
