If we haven’t met yet, I’m Essie! I’m one of the makeup and hair stylists who works with Greenville Boudoir.

With a background in education, I always assumed I would retire as a teacher. But nowadays, I like to introduce myself as a teacher turned entrepreneur! For almost ten years, I was a public school teacher but then I began doing makeup on the side; I fell in love with the transformation it made for my clients in their appearance, but also their self-esteem. Watching another person come to life in my chair is honestly one of the best feelings.

Becoming an entrepreneur really changed my life for the better, knowing I had all this potential to make more money and have a flexible schedule while utilizing my skills and gifts changed my entire outlook on my future. In the end, I couldn’t completely leave my passion for teaching and started another business as an Academic Coach to middle and high school students. Now I own and operate two businesses using my passions for both beauty and education. When I tell people I love my life, I mean it.

Through beauty and makeup, I meet so many incredible people. Coupled with my gifts to encourage and empower others, I’m able to love the relationships in front of me while helping people see themselves as they are at their core. I help people show up as their authentic selves! Ultimately, my goal is to make my clients look and feel like themselves, but enhanced. I adore when they finally look in the mirror and love their look but still see themselves - those reactions are the highlight of a makeover.

My personal journey into beauty has led to me overcoming multiple obstacles, as it has helped me transform into the woman I am today! I’ve had to buckle down and take so many risks without knowing how it would turn out, but I focus on learning and growing and trying new things until something sticks. I’ve worked to face my challenges with grace while conquering so many fears and accomplishing my goals.

If I could go back and change something, I would have chosen myself many years ago. I wish I wouldn’t have let fear keep me pinned down in one place for so long - I could have been free from that frustration. But I believe I’ve grown stronger and more resilient and finally fed up with my circumstances and knew choosing me was the right move all along.

To my clients, I hope you always feel beautiful and confident to show up as your best self. I’m thankful to be part of your journey. And for those who aren’t sure where they want to go but can feel the ache inside for more: you will know when the time is right to pursue your dreams. Choose yourself and learn from those around you as much as you can. Step into your next chapter with curiosity, enthusiasm, and grace. You have many cheering you on!