Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria Jose Espitia.
Hi Maria Jose, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I began my journey in the beauty industry ten years ago. I would have family and friends come to me to get their makeup done and that soon turned into meeting new clients, just from word of mouth and referrals. I was in a season of my life where I was not ready to dive into the entrepreneurship world. It was too big and scary for me because my mind was conditioned to play it safe. The goal for me was going to be too complicated, so I thought. This stemmed from having to hold work permit that could’ve been taken away at any time during a political turmoil. My parents immigrated from Mexico when I was five so I was only protected by the Dream Act at the time also known as DACA, Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals. I kept my safe job in a plasma testing laboratory for years during the week and I will work weddings and event on weekends. The more opportunities opened up for me to do makeup, the more I fell in love with the beauty industry. I enjoyed meeting new people and getting to be a small part of their special day. It filled my heart when I would see brides smile in the mirror after I finished their makeup.
I learned about microblading from an artist who became my friend. I saw her growth in the Permanent makeup industry and I was so intrigued with the process, so I set up a coffee date with her to talk about the process of getting started. After doing extensive research on Microblading, I found the next training opportunity in Dallas taught by one of the best permanents makeup artists around the world and drove 4 hours to attend. I was able to work on two live models and although I was nervous, I felt butterflies in my stomach instantly. I had found my passion. I took a few more certifications from local artists to artists in other states.
I practiced permanent makeup day and night for months on latex sheets. I compared my work to the best in the industry and I was not going to stop until my practice was just as good. I knew if they could do it, I would be right behind them learning and growing. At times when my passion was clouded by perfectionism, my boyfriend planted seeds of encouragement and reminded me to keep going and keep showing up.
Soon after months of working on my craft and feeling confident in my abilities as an artist. I had the courage to file my LLC and start my own beauty company. I had already years of experience doing makeup so the timing was finally perfect for me.
I love this industry because it allows me to meet and connect with so many beautiful women that have been through all walks of life. For me, a salon appointment is more than just the application. It is an unofficial therapy session, a quiet relaxing time, and a moment to put yourself first, you deserve it! My mission with Nimbus Ink Beauty is to provide an exceptional beauty experience and empower women to look and feel their very best.
When I am not in the beauty studio, I am spending time with my family, drinking coffee, and attending women empowerment events in ATX.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
A huge struggle for me was overcoming the fear of failure… I had a setback when I was in the works of opening my studio, the contract for the location I was supposed be in initially fell through. I was devastated and the fear of failure showed up visciously. I felt so much resistance at that time, as much I thought I was going to just make it work, my physical body and my mind was just not at ease. I know deep in my heart when a door closes, another one always opens. A few days later, I had a sense of peace about my choice to find another location. I told myself there’s something better out there just for me. Two weeks later, I was sitting drinking coffee with an amazing entrepreneur who had the perfect location and studio space for me. Not only did we speak about this new opportunity for my business but she also poured encouragement and motivation to keep leveling up in the industry.
We’ve been impressed with Nimbus Ink Beauty, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Nimbus Ink Beauty specializes in Brow Permanent Make Up and Profession Makeup application for any and all events. We offer a variety of services to fulfill your eyebrow dreams, microblading, microshading, and ombre shading. Nimbus Ink Beauty’s continuous knowledge, intentiveness, and entrepreneurial passion allow clients to explore the multiverse of beauty and care. We believe in distinctiveness, sincerity, and transparency and encourage every woman to embrace her true self.
How do you think about happiness?
I feel joy when I see other people happy and living life. Sharing smiles, holding doors for strangers, and simply having conversations. I love being in places where there is love and laughter. But I’m the happiest when I’m at home cuddling on the couch with the love of my life and our boys, I love having a house full of boys!
Contact Info:
- Email: maria@nimbusinkbeauty.com
- Website: mariaespitia.glossgenius.com
- Instagram: @nimbusinkbeauty
- Facebook: Nimbus Ink Beauty
Image Credits:
@katiaforerophotography
