Building my Business on Brows with Pallena Foreman

Written by: Mikey Moran

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Time to read 11 min

Sitting in the vibrant ambiance of the Private Label Studios, the golden hue of the morning sun filtering in, I couldn’t help but reflect on the journey that brought me here. 


Around me lay the tools of my trade – exquisite brushes that have been my companions through countless makeup sessions, wigs meticulously crafted from the finest hair sourced by Private Label, and a deep sense of accomplishment that pulsed within. 


The path to creating my brainchild, “Brow Bar ATL,” has been exhilarating, challenging, and incredibly transformative. 


As someone deeply embedded in beauty and eager to make a significant impact, I felt an irresistible urge to share the insights, experiences, and snippets from my recent podcast recording.

The Genesis of Brow Bar ATL

Every brand has a story, and Brow Bar ATL is no different. 


I always had an intrinsic love for makeup, especially eyebrows. They say eyebrows frame the face, and I couldn’t agree more. 


With every stroke and with every shade, I realized I was not just enhancing a feature; I was crafting an art piece. Brow Bar ATL came into existence from this undying passion and a vision to create a space dedicated to brow perfection.

The Power of Consistency

As with any business, consistency is key. I remember the early days when appointments were few and doubts clouded my mind. 


But my unwavering belief in my craft and the power of consistent effort kept me going. Over time, as word spread and clients saw the magic I could create with a simple brush and the right shade, Brow Bar ATL began to flourish.

Embracing the Digital Age

In today’s age, if your business isn’t online, it might as well not exist. 


Recognizing the power of the digital sphere early on, I harnessed the reach of platforms like Instagram. Not just for marketing but to create a community. 


A space where beauty enthusiasts could engage, learn, and share. This bolstered Brow Bar ATL’s online presence and helped build a loyal clientele.

Key Takeaways from the Podcast

Never Underestimate the Power of Passion: Passion is the driving force behind any successful venture. 


It keeps you going during the tough times and adds value to your craft.


Stay Updated: The beauty industry is ever-evolving. 


From new techniques to innovative products, staying updated and offering your clients the best is crucial.


Build Genuine Relationships: Clients are not just a source of income but a part of your brand's journey. 


Building genuine relationships can lead to loyal customers and word-of-mouth referrals.


Building Brow Bar ATL has been an incredible journey, filled with lessons, challenges, and moments of immense pride. 


It's a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the right approach. As I look back and share my insights, I aim to inspire budding entrepreneurs and beauty aficionados. 


After all, there’s always room for growth, innovation, and a touch of magic in the beauty world.

The Evolving Landscape of Makeup Brands

The Foundation Revolution

One thing we can trace back to a monumental shift in the beauty industry is the evolution of foundation shades.


 Rewind a few years; the choices in foundation shades, even from big names like MAC, were glaringly limited. 


For many, finding that 'perfect match' was akin to finding a needle in a haystack. The tones were too ashy, red, or not varied enough to cater to the vast spectrum of skin tones.


Then came brands like Fenty Beauty. Rihanna’s groundbreaking venture not only shook the beauty industry but also set a new standard. 


With its expansive shade range, Fenty Beauty sent out a loud and clear message: Beauty is diverse, and every shade is beautiful. 


It was no longer about conforming to a limited set of shades but celebrating every hue and undertone.

Seasonal Shade Shifts

As seasons change, so do makeup trends. Every makeup enthusiast can relate to The excitement surrounding switching shades for spring and summer. 


There's a certain thrill in transitioning from winter's deep, warm hues to spring's vibrant and fresh shades. 


It's like nature’s way of signaling a fresh start, and what better way to embrace it than by playing with a new palette of colors?

Brands Making Waves

My journey in the beauty world has allowed me to experiment with many brands


In this ocean of cosmetics, brands like BH Cosmetics, Morphe, and Juvia's Place stand out for their quality and innovation.


BH Cosmetics: Their vibrant palettes and dedication to cruelty-free products make them a favorite.


 Their ability to produce high-quality makeup at an affordable price point is commendable.


Morphe: Known for their incredible collaboration with artists and influencers, Morphe brings a fresh perspective to the makeup world.


 Their brushes and palettes have become a staple for many makeup enthusiasts and professionals.


Juvia's Place: Celebrating African heritage through its packaging and shade names, Juvia’s Place brings a unique blend of culture and color. 


Their rich pigments and palettes tell a story, making them more than just a makeup product.



The world of makeup is constantly evolving. Brands are pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and setting new standards.


 It’s a thrilling time to be a part of this industry, where change is embraced and celebrated. 


Watching and participating in this evolution has been exhilarating as someone deeply passionate about beauty.


 As we look to the future, one can only imagine the innovations and revolutions that await us.

The Power of Supporting Black-Owned Beauty Brands

Uplifting and Celebrating Diversity

In an industry that often prides itself on inclusion and representation, it's astonishing to reflect on how recently the beauty world has embraced the depth of its diversity. 


By supporting black-owned beauty brands, we do more than contribute to an entrepreneur's success; we champion representation and inclusivity and celebrate a rich and vibrant culture.

An Economic Boost with Cultural Significance

Beyond the sheer economics, supporting black-owned businesses sends a powerful message. 


It’s a direct investment into communities, helping bridge wealth gaps and offering more opportunities for future black entrepreneurs. 


It’s about recognizing talent, innovation, and the significant contributions that black creators bring to the table.


Investing in and amplifying black voices is only fitting in the beauty industry, where black women and men have long-set trends. 


Their products often have a cultural story that resonates deeply with a wide audience. 


These brands often understand the nuances of darker skin tones, textures, and hair types in ways that mainstream brands previously overlooked.

A Legacy of Iconic Hair Shows and Beauty Evolution

Tracing back the lineage of black beauty trends, we can't overlook the legacy of iconic hair shows. 


These events have not just been about showcasing hairstyles, but they've also celebrated black culture, creativity, and resilience. 


They’ve served as platforms for stylists and brands to showcase their artistry, ingenuity, and flair.


Over the decades, the beauty industry, led by pioneers from the black community, has taken the world by storm.


 From the influence of afros in the '70s to the braided and located masterpieces of today, these trends have shaped global beauty standards and have made indelible marks on fashion runways, film, music, and everyday streets.


Supporting black-owned beauty brands goes beyond just a purchase. 


It’s a step towards creating a more inclusive, diverse, and understanding world. 


It’s about valuing the immense contributions of the black community to the beauty industry and ensuring that their legacy, which is rich in history and innovation, is recognized, celebrated, and continues to flourish. 


As consumers, we hold immense power in our choices, and by actively choosing to support black entrepreneurs, we're shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for the beauty world.

the legacy of black beauty trends

Venturing Beyond Brows - My Future Plans

The Birth of "Print Shay Lashes"

Eyebrows and lashes go hand-in-hand, don’t they? As I carved a niche with "Brow Bar ATL," it was only a matter of time before my passion would guide me to the next horizon. 


Enter "Print Shay Lashes," inspired by the French word for 'princess' – princess. Every woman deserves to feel like royalty; with these lashes, that's exactly the aura I aim to evoke.


 Just as a princess's eyes tell tales of her kingdom, every flutter of these lashes would weave a story of confidence, elegance, and charm.

Laying Down the Blueprint

Starting a business isn't merely about an idea; it's about bringing that idea to life, brick by brick. Here are the pillars I always emphasize upon:


Write It Down: Every vision begins with a thought, a fleeting idea. The first crucial step is to put it on paper. 


It is essential to craft a business plan detailing your goals, potential challenges, and pathways to overcoming them. 


Not only does this act as a roadmap for your journey, but it also helps visualize the bigger picture and keep the end goal in sight.


Register: It’s essential to make it official. Registering your business not only legalizes your venture but also provides a structure. 


Whether it's an LLC, a partnership, or a sole proprietorship, understanding the benefits of each and choosing what’s right for your business is key.


Move Forward: The path to success is rarely linear. 


There will be challenges and detours, but what's imperative is the continuous momentum. 


Whether big or small, taking daily actions ensures you’re always progressing. Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.


The beauty industry is a canvas of infinite possibilities. 


As I step into the world of lashes, I carry the same passion, dedication, and zeal that marked my foray into brows. "Print Shay Lashes" isn't just a product; it's a testament to dreams realized and the promise of many more. 


Through every venture, I aim to inspire, elevate, and empower. The journey has just begun, and the road is sparkling with potential.

A Unique Business Model - Makeup Memberships

Redefining Customer Engagement

In an industry where trends shift like the sands of a desert, keeping up with the changing dynamics while providing something unique is essential. 


When we talk about loyalty, the typical buy-ten-get-one-free cards come to mind. But what if we could change the narrative? Enter the concept of makeup memberships.

The Allure of Memberships

Offering memberships for frequent makeup services is an innovative way to keep clients returning and creates exclusivity and privilege.


 Imagine having access to monthly makeup sessions, getting a sneak peek into the latest products, or attending exclusive beauty workshops. It's not just about providing a service but an experience.

Recurring Subscription: A Win-Win Model

The beauty of a recurring subscription model in the beauty industry lies in its mutual benefits. 


For clients, they get consistent, premium services, often at a discounted rate. They no longer need to fret about booking appointments or missing out on the latest beauty treatments


Everything is streamlined, predictable, and luxurious.


This model ensures steady revenue and a loyal customer base for the business.


 Instead of sporadic appointments, the business can forecast demand better, manage inventory more efficiently, and strengthen client relationships. 


Moreover, happy members become brand ambassadors, singing praises and bringing in referrals.


Makeup memberships are more than just a business strategy; they reimagine the client-business relationship. 


As "Brow Bar ATL" continues to evolve and grow, embracing such innovative models will set us apart and pave the way for a new era in the beauty industry. 


In a world where loyalty meets luxury, every client feels like a valued member of an exclusive club.

Male Grooming - Breaking Stereotypes

A Paradigm Shift in Perception

There's no denying that the beauty and grooming industry has long been perceived as predominantly female-oriented. 


However, the winds of change are blowing, reshaping the landscape in more ways than one. At the forefront of this change is the rising demand for male grooming. 


Male grooming is no longer relegated to the peripheries, claiming its rightful place in the beauty limelight.

The Modern Man Steps Forward

With the advent of social media and a more globalized world, we are witnessing a more comprehensive understanding of beauty and grooming that goes beyond gender. 


Modern men are exploring and embracing grooming practices that were once considered taboo, from moisturizers and cleansers to eyebrow threading and makeup. 


This surge isn't just about aesthetics; it reflects self-expression and confidence and breaks free from dated stereotypes.

More than Just a Touch-up - Male Makeup

Regarding the importance of male makeup, especially during photoshoots and public appearances, we aren't merely discussing a light dusting of powder to combat shine. 


Today, the application extends to contouring, brow-filling, and even eyeshadows. 


Whether for a magazine cover, a red carpet-event, or a music video, makeup for men is about enhancing features, exuding confidence, and delivering a powerful visual impact.


Makeup artists worldwide are now equipped with specialized knowledge and tools tailored to male grooming needs, highlighting the industry's recognition of this burgeoning segment.


As "Brow Bar ATL" looks toward the future, we remain committed to inclusivity, recognizing that beauty and grooming are universal desires, not bound by gender.


 Embracing male grooming is not just about catering to a trend but acknowledging a broader understanding of beauty in the 21st century. 


Here's to a world where everyone feels empowered to look and feel their best, unshackled by antiquated norms.

the importance of male makeup in the beauty industry

Looking back...

Charting the course of the beauty industry is akin to tracing the graceful lines of a perfectly sculpted brow. 


Every rise, curve, and descent tells a story of trends that have come and gone, challenges faced, and victories celebrated. 


My own trajectory in this ever-evolving sector mirrors this sentiment.


From setting up "Brow Bar ATL" to venturing into new horizons with "Print Shay Lashes," each step, much like a brushstroke, has been deliberate and filled with intent. 


Along the way, I've seen the industry shift and adapt from the ever-expanding color palettes to the recognition of the importance of male grooming. 


I've watched in awe as fellow entrepreneurs have shattered glass ceilings and rewritten the rules of the beauty playbook.


The world of beauty, with its shimmering highlights and subtle contours, has always been about more than just appearances.


 It's about empowerment, self-expression, and crafting a vision that resonates with people from all walks of life. 


As I stand at this juncture, palette in hand, ready to paint the next chapter of my beauty story, I'm filled with gratitude and excitement.


For those who dream of leaving their mark on this vibrant canvas, remember: much like the art of makeup, it's about blending passion with perseverance, defining one's path, and, most importantly, believing in endless potential. 


The beauty journey is vast, diverse, and everchanging, and I'm thrilled to be a part of it.


Here's to the artistry, the innovation, and the indomitable spirit of beauty enthusiasts everywhere. 


The future is bright, and like the best highlighter, it promises to shine brilliantly.



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