Makeup by Lauren 143
I went to high school with Lauren, and we recently reconnected when she did an amazing job on my Halloween makeup this past year. Lauren is ambitious, passionate, and incredibly eager to expand her knowledge. She's also incredibly funny, keeping me entertained with laughter while I sat in her chair. I thoroughly enjoyed catching up with her and discovering more about her passion for makeup and everything beauty-related!
How did you get your start in the hospitality business?
One year, I attended seven weddings, and for one of them—my cousin’s wedding—my aunt asked me to do her makeup. Some of the bridesmaids also asked for my help with their makeup that day. Everyone was so complimentary about the looks I created and how it made them feel. They encouraged me to consider becoming a makeup artist.
I genuinely enjoyed the experience, so when I returned home, I began researching the possibility of pursuing makeup artistry. I took a few classes, offered free makeup sessions—which quickly filled up—and officially launched my business. From there, I started networking online, which led to in-person events and eventually landing my first wedding.
My degree is in Visual Communication Design, which primarily involves computer-based work, so I’ve been thrilled by the face-to-face interactions and personal connections I’ve made as a makeup artist. Ironically, my background in the arts has seamlessly complemented my journey into makeup artistry, blending creativity and precision in a whole new way.
What has been your favorite event to do makeup for thus far?
I absolutely love wedding days! There's nothing better than making people feel beautiful, confident, and hyped up for such a special occasion. I also enjoy the creative freedom of editorial shoots and Halloween makeup, where I can explore unique concepts and bring imaginative ideas to life.
Any beauty tips for brides to be?
Make sure to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and switch your pillowcase frequently—especially during the week of your wedding. Schedule a makeup trial with a professional makeup artist ahead of time, and if possible, try on your dress with your makeup to see the full look come together. If a loved one offers to help, don't hesitate to delegate a task or two—it can make all the difference. Most importantly, don’t stress; you have a support system of people who want nothing more than for you to have the best day ever!
What is a goal of yours for 2025?
In 2025, my goal as a makeup artist is to expand my network by connecting with more entrepreneurs in the beauty and wedding industries, fostering collaborations that elevate my artistry and strengthen my business presence.
If you could go back, what advice would you give yourself at the beginning of your business journey?
If I could go back, I would advise myself to start collecting client feedback right away.
Interested in booking an appointment with Lauren? Visit her website here.
Follow her on Instagram @makeupbylauren143
Sweet Peas Sourdough
Owner Ashley and I share a history that dates back to our time at the Cleveland Browns Stadium. We created countless memories together, even during the season when the Browns managed to win just one game. She's truly a people person, and her commitment to both her business and family shines through. Ashley possesses a wonderfully kind spirit! Discover more about her journey in today's blog!
1) How did you get your start in the hospitality business?
Started when I was 16 working as a hostess working at Texas Roadhouse, then when I turned 21 I became a bartender and worked at several places over the years.
2) Where did the name Sweet Peas Sourdough come from?
I named my business after my little girls, my oldest was always called Sweet Pea since she was born and one of my favorite flowers is the Sweet Pea flower. Named my business after my girls because they’re what drives me everyday to do my absolute best and show them they can do anything.
3) What is your most difficult item to bake?
I’d have to say probably my artisan breads as there’s so much science behind it, monitoring & watching for the right queue to know when the dough is ready.
4) What is a goal of yours for 2025?
To always keep my main focus to be my family and my little girls, then my business. Let the business organically grow as it has now over the last 2 years. Sometimes as small business owners we get swept up and want to do more to grow, but it’s just best to let things happen as they should.
5) If you could go back, what advice would you give yourself at the beginning of your business journey?
Not sweat the small stuff, things will turn out the way they’re supposed to.
You can order your goodies from Sweet Pea Sourdough using this link.
Visit Ashley on Instagram @sweet_peas_sourdough
Traveling Spa Girl
Owner Megan has been my skin's fairy godmother for 8 years.Seriously, this gal is a skincare wizard! Not only does she have a PhD in skin wisdom, but her passion shines through everything she does! Always learning and leveling up her skincare game, but never taking herself too seriously. I just had to shout her out in my blog because great skin is the secret sauce to looking drop-dead gorgeous for any occasion. With Megan on your side, you'll be camera-ready and totally picture perfect! 📸✨
How did you get your start in the hospitality business?
My journey in the spa industry began when I took a relaxation massage class in 2006 from the Cleveland School of Massage and I found out very quickly that I wanted to pursue an esthetics career. I graduated from Brown Aveda in 2008 and worked at a few major salons and spas before creating my own brand. Previously, I came from working in retail management for many years.
Where did the name Traveling Spa Girl come from?
My name originated from an unfortunate event. I was working as an independent contractor out of a very small salon and spa, the owner unfortunately was going through some personal struggles and decided pretty immediately that she wanted to close up her business. I decided at that time since I did not have much time to find a new location I would travel to my client’s home and continue to work on them while I found a new space. Along the way I would travel to do corporate events for businesses doing chair massages and spa parties so my name kinda formed itself naturally. One exciting moment of my career was when I traveled to massage the former Cleveland Indians manager.
What treatment would you recommend for a bride-to-be?
With skincare there isn't a one-size-fits-all all when it comes to treatments, everyone wants/needs are completely different. If a bride is looking for clearer skin because she has acne then treatments would vary due to her specific acne but generally be planned 3-6 months out from the big day. If the bride is looking for a "glow" then dermaplaning is a fabulous option or a hydrafacial. It is always suggested to schedule a trial facial a couple of months before your big day to make sure we don't have any adverse reactions and to make sure that those are the glowing results that you want for the big day. Your facial leading up to your wedding could be scheduled within the week of your wedding.
What is a goal of yours for 2025?
My goal for 2025 is to continue to build my brand and to create a course for relaxation massage for other estheticians.
If you could go back, what advice would you give yourself at the beginning of your business journey?
I don't think I would give myself any advice. With business sometimes you have to go through the highs and the lows because that is what makes you better yourself. You should go through some struggles. Personally I would have told the 16 year Megan to stop picking at her skin.
To schedule an appointment with Megan or find more information, visit her Instagram @travelingspagirl.mk
That’s My Vibe Designs
Co-Owner & Creative Director Nicole and I go way back to our fun-filled days at Blossom Music Center. We kept the friendship alive, and now I’m diving into the exciting world of planning her wedding! I totally agree that Northeast Ohio is a bit like a party without a DJ when it comes to event rentals (it’s not just about weddings, folks!). Since I’m all about crafting events of every flavor, teaming up with Nicole was a no-brainer!
How did you get your start in the hospitality business?
We originally started out with wanting to do a passive income side hustle that had a creative component
to it in order to combat our professional burnout. We began with an Etsy store; focused on party
printables. Then, Nicole decided to go out and get engaged, which ultimately led her to began planning
a wedding. Once she started researching, she noticed a gap in our area; event rentals for all kinds of
events (not just weddings). This gap also included the type of rentals that were available, and that we
could add something unique to Northeast Ohio. We decided to expand and start offering our design
services, as well as decor rentals, that range from small vases and candle holders, to large backdrops.
2. Where did the name That’s My Vibe Designs come from?
We went on a friends trip to Texas at the beginning of 2024. During this time we were brainstorming
ideas for a business and a possible business name. We started bouncing names off our significant
others. Morgan’s husband, Bryan, in a mocking way (to make fun of Nicole), said it should be “That’s My
Vibe” because of how many times Nicole said that phrase while in Texas. Unfortunately for Bryan, it
rolled off the tongue and we decided that was our vibe, and picked our name.
3. What has been your favorite theme to design so far?
It’s hard to pick just one theme because there have been so many trends, but we got to do a fringe
backdrop for an “oh-fish-ally one” theme, but with an under the sea twist. We played into the mermaid
tones of teals and added in some lavender pops and it was absolutely beautiful.
4. What is a goal of yours for 2025?
One of our big goals (among many) is to expand our reach in order to gain more clients, while
promoting sustainable events through rentals. We want people to realize they can have that pinterest
perfect event without overspending, or without getting stuck with items after.
5. If you could go back, what advice would you give yourself at the beginning of your business journey?
If we could go back, we would give ourselves a lot of advice...because the business journey is HARD.
There is always so much to do, things to learn, and troubleshooting or problem solving along the way.
The ultimate advice we would give ourselves at the beginning would be to plan out specific
projects/tasks in phases instead of jumping in to various things all at once. We would also give the
advice to be gentle with ourselves and give ourselves grace. It is so easy to get discouraged, as well as
overwhelmed, and it’s okay to take a breather and come back later.
You can learn more about That’s My Vibe Designs on their website, https://thatsmyvibedesigns.com/ as well as their Instagram @thatsmyvibedesigns
Bubbles & Bows!
I had the pleasure of working for Christy (Owner of Bubbles & Bows!) for a short but very sweet time. She is so passionate about her craft and always looking for new ways to up her game. I hope you enjoy getting to know her.
1. How did you get your start in the hospitality business?
I had worked in corporate America my entire career and for some of the most amazing companies!
The experiences I gained through the positions that I held have set me up for success in owning my own business. I was looking for my "next" career move and never imagined it would land me where I am today. My daughter asked me to do a birthday party for her twins, I started researching on Pinterest and Instagram and was amazed by what was out there in the balloon industry. I fell in love immediately with this business and have never looked back.
2. Where did the name Bubbles & Bows come from?
The word Bubbles is from the name of the balloon that we created our Signature Bubble after. And the Bows is just because I LOVE bows & EVERYTHING should have a bow on it!
3. Favorite event you’ve done balloons for?
This is a hard question because every order or event that we do is customized and tailor-made for the client. Whether the job is big, small or in between we take great pride in the work we deliver. Details are a critical piece of our business which I believe takes the ordinary to the extraordinary!
4. What is a goal of yours by the end of 2024?
The mission statement of my company is "Bringing JOY on Purpose". In the next few weeks one of my top priorities is to bring our mission statement to life for our community. People SMILE when they get balloons! My goal is to make as many people SMILE as we can by surprising them with balloons that they did not order and are not expecting xoxo!\
5. If you could go back, what advice would you give yourself at the beginning of your business journey?
Saying "no' and being okay with it! I have learned that I cannot say yes to everyone and that's okay. Being a small business owner is so rewarding but there also are so many balls to juggle. It's okay to drop one of the balls here and there as long as you get back up, learn from what happened, and move forward!In
Visit Bubbles & Bows! on Instagram or their website for more information! https://bubblesandbowsllc.com/
Nikki’s Perfect Petals
As a new business owner, it’s incredibly important to me to take the time to get to know the various vendors that I recommend to my clients, friends, and family. Building these relationships allows me to ensure that the services provided are both high-quality and trustworthy. What better way for me to share all that I’ve learned on this journey than by creating a blog post? It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with others and provide valuable insights into the vendors I truly believe in!
“Nikki started the business in 2005 with the dream of helping couples create their dream wedding day, no matter your budget, style, or color scheme! Sure we do the standard congratulations and sympathy arrangements, but our passion is your wedding.”
1. How did you get your start in the floral world?
My mom had a greenhouse growing up and has always loved flowers. I took a class with a local florist on design and fell in love with it! I helped with some friends’ weddings and decided to do a bridal show and here we are!
2. What are your favorite flowers to work with?
We tend to work with the specialty flowers - garden roses, ranunculus, peonies, dahlias. They all have their challenges when working with them, but the end result is so worth it!
3. Favorite event/wedding you've done florals for?
It is so hard to pick just one! We love all the styles that come our way. The great thing about our shop is we have lots of amazing designers who design and we all have different styles we love! Colorful, classic, wildflower, garden style, moody. We love them all!
4. What is a goal of yours by the end of 2024?
We would love to compile a video of all the bouquets we got to make into one fast-paced bouquet video!
5. If you could go back, what advice would you give yourself at the beginning of your business journey?
Keep taking the risks and hire amazing people. It is worth the investment!
Follow Nikki’s Perfect Petals on Instagram @nppdesigns
Learn more at http://nppdesigns.com/