Today we’d like to introduce you to Leslie Ellis.
Hi Leslie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
Growing up, I was a bit of a tomboy but still enjoyed doing my dolls hair and putting on fashion shows for my family. I’ve always been artistic and love to paint, draw, do DIY projects, and hair and makeup. I was a receptionist at a salon throughout high school and knew that I should finish college like I was taught growing up, but instead, I followed my passion and attended Paul Mitchell the School of Nashville. Right out of school, I worked for a hair and makeup company in Nashville that worked primarily in the wedding industry. After 4 years with the company, I decided to branch off and start my business. I was terrified! I had a brand-new baby and knew that I had to put my all into this new venture, not only for myself but for my children too. Throughout this journey, I’ve had so many people support me by trusting me to do their weddings and referring me to their friends and family. That right there is what keeps a small business going. Today, I average about 100/150 weddings a year and I wouldn’t be able to continue that without my wonderful family, friends, and clients!
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?
I think I can speak for all of us when I say 2020 wasn’t the smoothest, am I right? There has been plenty of obstacles over the last 11 years in business. Doubt can creep in at times, especially while we live in a world of social media and comparison. It’s just something that you have to acknowledge and move past. My personal life is what has been challenging. Going through some really tough times while trying to run a business and be a single mom to my two kids is something I have overcome and pride myself in. We all have to practice giving ourselves grace and that is definitely something I have to work on daily.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Leslie Anne Aesthetics specializes in, not only bridal hair and makeup, but also photoshoots, video shoots, and even award shows. I put my heart and soul into my work and my clients become like family to me. Once you sit in my chair, it’s almost like a therapy session. Ha! I try to be just as transparent and open and that really helps us bond throughout the process. Being a bride is such a memorable time of your life and I strive to make these moments extra special. I want you to really feel heard when telling me how heavy or light you prefer your makeup and do exactly what you want with your hairstyle. The goal, always, is to make you feel better than ever!
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I was right smack in the middle of tomboy and girly-girl. I lived for anything outdoors. I played basketball and soccer, loved camping, but was also into fashion and experimenting with hairstyles. I’d consider myself an outgoing person, but the older I get I’ve noticed that I do need that alone time to recharge.
Contact Info:
- Email: Leslieanneaesthetics@gmail.com
- Website: LeslieAnneAesthetics.com
- Instagram: @leslieanneaesthetics
Image Credits
@mcdonaldvideophoto
@juliepaisley
@jennifercodyphoto
@honeybeetennessee
@ursamajor
