Today we’d like to introduce you to Arika Dance.
Hi Arika, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Well, I’ve always had a love for all things beauty. I can remember being as young as ten years old walking through Walgreens behind my mom and she would let me pick out makeup and nail polish. That’s when my passion first started. I would sit in my room all day doing my nails and makeup. As I got older I continued to do makeup on myself and close friends.
I would even have family members call me to come and do their eyebrows before their events. I’ve always had a thing for helping others it was satisfying to me to see someone so excited with their new look. So, I’m originally from Jacksonville, Florida. My parents are both militaries they met in Hawaii on a ship. With my mom being from Memphis we settled here. Growing up in Memphis was pretty normal. If I’m being completely honest I was pretty sheltered growing up and kind of stayed in my little bubble.
I had my first child at the age of 25. Her name is Harleigh. Harleigh was born with subglottic stenosis which resulted in her receiving a tracheotomy at four months old. That changed my life drastically! While makeup was my first love. I actually pursued a career in healthcare to become a respiratory therapist. My daughter’s condition drove me to the healthcare industry.
I was determined to help others going through what we had been through. So, yea I’m a respiratory therapist by night and a permanent makeup artist by day. I live a life filled with serving others and It’s pretty amazing!
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 faced many obstacles as most small businesses do. From funding, building clientele, and even going into joint ventures with other artists that didn’t work out for one reason or another.
It has definitely not been a walk in the park. There were countless days when I just wanted to quit but my heart is always drawn to this! I’m determined to be successful and expand across the country!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
So what I do is I offer semi-permanent makeup. I offer services like microshading and lip blushing. I specialize in Ombré Brows it’s this new beauty trend sweeping the nation. You might also know it as Powdered Brows. It’s a soft-brow look that looks great on anyone.
What sets me apart from the other PMU artists here in Memphis. Is definitely my personality! I put my personal touch on everything and everyone. I consider my client’s family! I check on them and their families long after their appointments with me.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memory would be when my Auntie Shelia got me a nano iPod. I’m obsessed with music! I even play music at all my appointments! I like to set the mood lol!
Pricing:
- Ombré Brows $300
- Lip Blushing $350
- Lash Extensions $75-105
Contact Info:
- Email: 901brows@gmail.com
- Website: www.901brows.com
- Instagram: @901brows
- Facebook: 901 Brows
Image Credits:
Johnathan
