Today we’d like to introduce you to Rabia Usman.
Rabia, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Makeup was and will be my biggest passion forever. I started doing makeup professionally when I was in California. When I was a child (under 14 years) I was not allowed to do makeup, not even a lip gloss. I always adored those who had makeup on and wished to be able to do makeup on me one day. My parents were very strict and that kept me wanting to do it more and more. Soon after, when I was allowed to do makeup, I remember I would go crazy and put everything on my face, regardless of it looking good or not; I just wanted to do makeup and do everything. Social media was not as big at that time as it is now, I did not watch any YouTube videos or Instagram to learn makeup. After I graduated from high school, I learned a little about makeup. Mac Cosmetics was high in demand at that time. I remember going to Mac stores and observing those makeup artists apply makeup on others. I would take good tips from them and learn techniques.
While I was in college, I participated in cultural shows, fashion shows and events where I would get a chance to do makeup on others. I realized how much I loved doing makeup on others. I decided to take a proper training where I can learn techniques for all types of skin and shape. While I was on vacation in Pakistan, I made a choice to take a makeup course from a very well know makeup salon. After my course, I learned how to do brides, party makeup and everyday look which was the beginning of my career. I started taking clients in California for hair, makeup and Henna tattoo. I was not busy every weekend, but I was happy with whatever I had. I was also going to college and this was my part time job along with 2 other jobs. After I finished my college, I got married and moved to Houston in 2010. Soon after, I got a full-time job at Baker Hughes Inc. as a HSE Specialist. I got very busy with my job and didn’t do makeup on the side as I didn’t know anyone in Houston since a majority of my clients in California was through word of mouth. Though I continued to experiment new techniques and stayed up to date with makeup industry.
Cut the story short, after I had my first child, I left Baker Hughes Inc. and became a stay-at-home mom. My passion for makeup was always there. I kept on thinking to open my business here in Houston but I was always scared how I will manage it with my very active son. It took me a year to finally make my mind that I want to pursue my passion and LUV4MAKEUPP was born. I started advertising in the neighborhood and good response. From there, I started my marketing, advertising and got to where I am today by the grace of God and blessings.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It definitely was not smooth since I have a baby to manage with my business. I had many obstacles from trying to get clients to how to manage sales on how to keep up with my lifestyle. I went to a few frauds that people did to me. But nevertheless, when there is one bad apple, you also find many good apples. So, no complains and regrets because I learned and gained experience from my struggles.
Luv4makeupp – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Luv4makeupp is a one-stop shop. I do Hairstyles, Makeup and Henna Tattoo which is very demanding in Indian, Pakistani culture. I do Airbrush Makeup, and Traditional Makeup. I am famous for my contorting and eyes. I can do very natural makeup to full glam makeup. I can do any hairstyle shown. It is hard to find someone who does Makeup and hairstyle, what sets me apart is that I do everything that a bride wants, I listen to what they want on their big day and go accordingly instead of forcing them to one look.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
If I had to start over, I would first work for a company to get recognized and then start my own.
Contact Info:
- Address: Telge Lake Trl, Cypress, TX 77429
- Website: www.luv4makeupp.com
- Phone: 909-525-8254
- Email: rabia@luv4makeupp.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/luv4makeup_addict
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/luv4makeupp
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
