The deets:
Name: Nikki Venus, CEO
Business Name: Nikki Venus & Company, Inc
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Describe your business:
I teach personal stylists and style coaches how to refine and package exclusive styling offers to double their revenue.
Tell us about your self-employment journey.
A few years ago, I was living the classic story of a fashion entrepreneur (previous boutique owner) in search of her ideal place in an oversaturated industry. I had just left a lucrative career in the corporate world and ventured into my creative passion with the business knowledge I had acquired. I had the passion, willingness and determination to build a successful business, but the path to success proved to be a winding road with many detours and sharp learning curves.
It took time to build a client base that was consistent enough for me to make a reliable living from my styling services. But, once I reached a certain point in my career, I realized I could have saved myself so much trouble if I had a mentor or coach or even someone to look up to that resembled my vision.
I made so many unnecessary mistakes and decided I needed to share my experience and empower other growing personal stylists to skip the mistakes and focus their time, money and energy on the steps that will actually bring them growth — which is how my program Style Coach Academy™ was born.
What area of your business are you most passionate about?
I’m so passionate about teaching and mentoring personal stylists on all things business development and giving them the tools and resources to grow and scale their styling business.
What’s the most valuable thing you learned early in your career that has contributed to your success?
The most valuable thing I’ve learned is that eventually, you need to invest in yourself. And that your mindset plays a huge part in your entrepreneurial journey.
How are you pivoting your business during the COVID-19 pandemic?
To be honest, I haven’t had to pivot much within my business because everything we did was already virtual. I pivoted from in-person personal styling to virtual a few years ago. Now, my coaching is teaching other personal stylists how to make that pivot.
What’s a recent project that you’ve worked on that you’re really excited about?
I’ve recently partnered with GlamHive as a speaker at their Virtual Winter Style & Beauty Summit.
What advice would you give other self-employed people?
If you’re a one-team operation, make sure you document your process so when it’s time to grow your team, you’ll be ready to delegate.
How has forming an S Corp helped you level up your business?
I recently converted my business to an S Corp, so it’s still fairly new. However, it has leveled up my mindset to think on a bigger scale because I’m running more than just a business. I’m running a company!
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