WHO IS OUR ENTREPRENEUR?
We’re excited to introduce you to Hair and Make-up Artist, Sam Alcudia. There aren’t enough words to describe how amazing she is as well as how amazing her work is! We’ll let the photos and Sam’s interview speak for itself! 🙂
When did you start your own thing?
When I was about 18 years old, it was the height of the recession. I quit college to find a job quick. I tried cosmetology, and it stuck I still love it to this day! I do beauty work full-time. I mainly work on weddings. If I’m not with a client or on location for a shoot, I’m working on my schedules and contracts for future weddings and replying to emails.
How did you know you wanted to do your own thing?
I realized how lucrative the wedding industry was. I felt like I had enough experience working with brides and other vendors to branch out on my own. Of course, I’ve had a lot of support from other artists who have encouraged me and shared their entrepreneurial knowledge.
What was the hardest thing you faced to get up and running?
It’s hard to just pick one thing. I can honestly name a ton! I think by far the one thing that could get in my way of my business is myself. It can be extremely challenging to own and manage your own business whether it be small or on a more corporate level. I think I can be really hard on myself and insecure about my abilities but I also think that’s what will drive me to be better.
What has been critical to your success and ability to keep going thus far?
Education and staying grounded. I feel like within the past year I have made quite a few strides in the direction I’d like to go. I do my best to never get complacent and work harder to earn that. I try and immerse myself in knowledge from other artists/business owners and see what I can learn from them. There are so many aspects to working my tiny business (marketing and social media, finance, sharpening my skills on clients, etc.) There are never ending possibilities to improve and better myself.
What has been most surprising about the process?
I would say…that it’s possible. 🙂 I have never thought of myself as someone who would be their own boss but here I am, picking my own schedule, getting paid and loving it!
What’s been the best thing about it?
It sounds super cheesy, but I absolutely love being a small part of someone’s life changing day! It is still so very special to me. I feel like I share a bond with my brides and I get to meet amazing people from all over the world. It’s really a dream!
What advice do you have to someone who is thinking about starting their own thing or struggling to continue?
I’m probably the last person to give advice! Lol. If you’re someone struggling to continue, remember why you started. Do what you can to reignite the passion of your business. It’s so easy to get discouraged, whether it be small or large obstacles. If you’re just starting out, surround yourself by those who are positive and willing to share their knowledge with you. Be open to taking different approaches and always always always learn from your mistakes.
Any regrets, wishes, redos?
I definitely wish I had started this sooner! It was something I always knew I wanted to do. But I do think that comes with growth and experience. If I had the knowledge I do now back when I was 18 then my life would be completely different. However, I do think everything happens for a reason and I’m happy and blessed to be where I am today.
What’s next for you?
My focus is to streamline my business before I grow it even further. As of now, I contract with many different companies and scheduling can get really difficult. Once I’m on my own, I think I’ll get a better handle on things. I’m happy doing everything on my own terms and just worrying about myself. My goal is to be booked out a year in advanced! This year looks pretty good so far, so next will be building consistency!
Check out more of Sam’s work on Instagram (@_GlamBySam) and on her site www.glambysam.design
