Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Ellis.
Hi Amanda, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Having a focus on art + aesthetics since grade school I transitioned into medical aesthetics and makeup almost seamlessly. My own personal struggle with my skin made me more driven to help others feel more comfortable on their own. In working for plastic surgeons and dermatologists for the better part of 10 years once I had my family and in the heat of COVID my focus shifted to meaningful time spent both at home and at work. Months were spent soul searching and caring for my infant daughter.
Spending long days in the medical spa didn’t suit itself well to helping my family + emotional state flourish. Finding my two like-minded super mom partners we all converged to create a more family-friendly business model, The Beautique was born. Our staff including nurse practitioners are highly trained and have extensive knowledge and experience in skin preservation and rejuvenation. As a women-led brand, we strive to create a network of positivity in the community through what we do.
The Beautique stands for inclusivity, and acceptance, and is a welcoming space for everyone. I own and operate my on-location makeup and hair company out of the space as well, May River Made Up. Most days it’s messy, and it is an ever-evolving business but that is what makes it uniquely ours. I am certainly proud of where I have landed in the eighteen months since leaving the traditional working environment.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
This question makes me chuckle – Three women with separate businesses, under one umbrella, 8 kids between the 3 of us – what a mess! We have had a rotating door of marketing issues – trying to brand ourselves without causing much confusion.
We eventually got it together (mostly). It also has been tears of joy and just plain tears working with close colleagues but I wouldn’t trade any of it as it mostly has propelled us further as people and added depth to our character.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I really really enjoy helping my clients transform their skin – into something that they take pride in. I don’t want to see someone just once for a relaxing facial – I want them to have a relationship with me and their skincare routine, and a healthy one at that.
It is so easy to fall into the social media trap of instant gratification but so many things including skincare and makeup do not work that way. There is a natural ebb and flow to it – and it takes trial and error sometimes. I take joy in the hand-holding and watching a client start to really get how to make healthy choices in regards to their skin choices.
I really care about my brides + clients, I take time to get to know them and about their lifestyle so that I can tailor my treatments and recommendations to them specifically.
We love surprises, fun facts, and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I freaking love chickens – they are the most interesting little creatures. Don’t currently own any moment (but I have).
Watch out 2023, I am bringing my feathered friends back into the party. Side note – talk about a creative color story inspiration next time you see a fancy-looking chicken peek those feathers… such rich and unique colors abound!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.thebeautiquebluffton.com
- Instagram: @beautique_bluffton + @mayrivermadeup
Image Credits
Ian Santiago – IVS photography
