Today we’d like to introduce you to Kiara Miller.
Hi Kiara, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My name is Kiara Miller; I’m a 25-year-old licensed esthetician and spa owner. My roots trace back to the streets of Detroit, where I grew up near Livernois, affectionately known as the “Avenue of Fashion.” It was in this dynamic neighborhood that I witnessed a thriving community of Black entrepreneurs, each owning their own businesses. The sight of these enterprising individuals left an indelible mark on my young mind, instilling a sense of intrigue and inspiration.
But it wasn’t until later that I realized that my calling was to start my own business. It was God that led me on this path. I knew that God was nudging me in the direction of entrepreneurship; I just didn’t know what kind of business until I started experimenting with brows and lashes.
From this point, my journey into the beauty industry took flight. My experiments with lashes and eyebrows, combined with a modest fee for my services, soon captivated my peers’ attention. This was the inception of my journey towards becoming a beauty entrepreneur.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Indeed, my journey in the beauty industry and entrepreneurship has been marked by its share of challenges. Early on, there were people who doubted whether I could make a living in this field. It was far from smooth sailing, and there were times when financial difficulties tested my resolve. However, I clung to the vision and faith that God had placed in my heart, which carried me through those tough times.
Before fully committing to the beauty industry, I worked various jobs to make ends meet. It was a practical step to build experience and financial stability. I remember vividly the time after graduating from cosmetology school when I landed my first job at a medspa. It was an exciting step, but I faced a unique set of challenges. I was the only black woman in the workplace, and this presented its own set of obstacles. But, in the midst of those difficulties, I found the strength to overcome. It wasn’t easy, but it only added to my determination and resilience. What’s truly remarkable is that today, as a licensed esthetician and entrepreneur, I’m earning three times what I did at those previous jobs.
These adversities, the doubts, and the financial challenges humbled me, but they also fueled my determination. They served as a reminder of how far I’ve come. I am genuinely thankful for the journey because it has not only allowed me to fulfill my passion but also provided financial stability that far surpasses what I had ever anticipated. It’s proof that God and perseverance can transform adversity into remarkable success.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Absolutely; our business name, Changingfaces By K LLC, known as CBK Spa, which has been a part of the community since 2016. At CBK Spa, we’ve dedicated ourselves to the art of self-care, offering a wide array of specialized services. Our offerings include full-body waxing, rejuvenating facials, expert makeup application, brow tinting, individual lash enhancements, invigorating body treatments, and personalized 1-on-1 or group sessions for aspiring beauty professionals.
But we’re not just about services; we’re about crafting experiences. We take pride in creating our very own handmade exfoliating scrubs, and we even offer a range of premium aftercare products for our clients.
One of our unique specialties is the Vajacial, a corrective treatment for the bikini area. This targeted service addresses issues like ingrown hairs, lightening, and texture irregularities. It’s a client favorite, often paired with our soothing cooling hydro jelly masks for a complete spa experience.
However, what I’m most proud of, beyond our services and specialties, is the incredible bonds we’ve built with our clients over the years. We’ve watched them grow, just as they’ve watched us evolve. Some I’ve had the pleasure to witness them achieve promotions, get married, and start families. It’s a humbling and beautiful journey, a constant reminder that I’m walking in the purpose that God has ordained for me.
Here at CBK Spa, we firmly believe that God is the foundation of our business. This spiritual grounding sets us apart from others. We have a heartfelt mission to help women access self-care services that enable them to pour back into themselves. We recognize that by taking care of their bodies and mental health, women can become the best versions of themselves – confident and productive, whether they’re mothers, CEOs, students, leaders, or any other role in this world.
Self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity for anyone looking to navigate life’s challenges with strength and resilience. This philosophy is at the heart of what we do at CBK Spa, and it’s a message we’re passionate about sharing with our clients and readers alike.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you, and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
One of the most profound lessons etched in my journey during the pandemic is the resilience to persevere, even in the face of global adversity. It was a period marked by uncertainty, but I learned the value of unwavering commitment to my vision and goals, regardless of the circumstances.
Innovation and adaptability also emerged as pivotal factors. The pandemic challenged us to be creative to find new avenues for growth. I discovered that in times of crisis, it’s our capacity for ingenuity that sets us apart, opening doors to unexpected opportunities.
During the pandemic, I faced a unique challenge when I had to move my spa operations to my home. This meant taking my clients into my sister’s den, a situation that, I must admit, was both challenging and somewhat humbling. It wasn’t the glamorous image of business I had in mind, but it was a necessary step to adapt to the circumstances.
Surprisingly, this moment of adversity turned out to be a turning point for my business. In the midst of the challenges, I witnessed unprecedented growth. It was a period of immense transformation. The experience ultimately opened the door for me to secure my first suite for my business, a significant milestone in my journey. It’s a testament to the power of resilience and adaptability during tough times.
Yet, the most enduring lesson was the incredible power of prayer during those trying times. It was in those moments of seeking God that I discovered fresh ideas and inventive approaches to sustain and expand my business. Prayer became not just a source of inspiration but a wellspring of resilience.
Moreover, I’ve embraced the wisdom that the average millionaire maintains at least seven streams of income. As entrepreneurs, we should embody this approach. It’s not just about surviving tough seasons but flourishing gracefully and with unwavering faith. This mindset equips us to not only weather the storm but to emerge stronger and more effectively.
Pricing:
- New Client Facial $100
- Brazilian Wax $85
- Vajacial $62
- Soft Glam $110
- Brow Tint and Individual Lashes $100
Contact Info:
- Website: https://changingfacesbykllc.as.me/
- Instagram: Cbkspa
- Facebook: Changingfacesbykmakeup
- Yelp: CBK Spa
Image Credits
Austin G. Photography
