As we celebrate Women’s History month, we would like to introduce to you Mother, Grandmother and successful Entrepreneur of several businesses, Dawn Green is the true definition of a woman who understands her purpose and is sharing her achievements with her community. Read more about this multi-talented Entrepreneur and how her faith has guided her success.
Tell us about a day in the life of Dawn Green.
Wow! A day in the life of Dawn Green could encompass so many things. Every morning begins with Prayer and Praise to Jesus Christ! Some days I may be traveling to different markets within the US, meeting with distributor or retail partners about strategic planning for Sundial Brands. When I’m not traveling, my morning begins with taking my Grandson to school, praying with him to ensure that he has an amazing day.
What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?
I was inspired to become an entrepreneur after working for my mentor, Germaine Bolds-Leftridge of GBL Sales. I worked for her for 13 years, learning the beauty industry and how it operates. I loved the independence and the opportunity to provide employment for others in the community.
Tell us about your transition from a Sales Executive and Beauty Industry Veteran to a business owner of two different types of businesses.
I believe that the additional businesses that own, Runway Lashes and Salon Studios are other facets of the beauty industry. At the height of the eyelash craze in “the community” I was in Las Vegas at an industry trade show and I saw how professional lashes were applied by a company based out of Houston called Novalash. I had the lashes applied to myself and was hooked. They were lightweight, very natural looking and not harmful to the natural lash and most importantly the lash glue was not harmful. I had a bad experience once. I wore the cluster lashes that were very popular in the community and experienced eyelash loss and discomfort. So, I was very interested in learning safer options when it came to lashes. I then traveled to San Francisco and became a trainer for the company. I worked for them for several years as a trainer, while establishing a home-based clientele that I provided the service to for the last 15years.
Once I started, my marketing company, Marketing Excellence eight years ago, I shifted my focus to getting that business off the ground and passed the lash business over to my oldest daughter Brittney Gilliams. She took the business to the next level and three years ago, we opened Runway Lashes Cosmetic and Beauty Spa.
What inspired you to open Runway Lashes?
In addition to wanting to provide safer lash options, I was also inspired so my daughter and others like her could have a place in their community where they could generate income and provide upscale services to the community. It was also important to me that people would not have to leave their neighborhood to be offered upscale services.
What other services do you offer besides lashes?
Besides an amazing set of Lashes that look and feel natural and that lasts up to 4-6 weeks with the ability to swim and steam in the sauna, Runway Lashes is a full service Cosmetic Spa offering facials, full body waxing, eye brow waxing/tinting, massages, permanent cosmetics, micro-blading, and make up services for all occasions.
What steps did you take to learn more about being a business owner?
Like I mentioned previously, I worked for GBL Sales for 13 years prior to starting my own company. It was working for her that prepared and gave me the experience needed to understand the dedication, flexibility, and commitment that was needed to open and sustain a successful business.
What has been your biggest challenge as an entrepreneur?
My biggest challenge in being an entrepreneur is being labeled. Being referred to as angry or aggressive was very hurtful. I believe that all people don’t have the same level of passion or ways of working as others and because of this people place certain labels on you.
How did you overcome that challenge?
I overcame that challenge by deciding that labels didn’t define me and that it was a defense mechanism to defer from other’s inadequacies.
Who is your inspiration?
Jesus Christ is my first inspiration and being a vessel that he uses brings me great joy. I’m also inspired my two daughters and grandson, they keep me moving and striving for what’s next.
What advice do you have for other women who want to be entrepreneurs?
Be patient and learn as much as you can along the way. Also, don’t be afraid to share information. What God has for you, is for you and what He has for someone else, is for them. You don’t have to be competitive. When you’re competitive, you don’t believe that God can provide for everyone. So, don’t hoard information or opportunities. Instead, be a Winner and define what winning means to you.
What are you most grateful for?
I’m most grateful for God in my life and my family. Having those relationships sustain ME.
What are the top three products in your Ultimate Beauty Arsenal- what can’t you live without?
I honestly cannot go without these three Shea Moisture Products. I love the Olive & Green Tea Body wash and Lotion, although I will interchange for the Fruit Fusion collection on occasions. I also use the Virgin Coconut Daily Facial Moisturizer every single day. I mix in a little vitamin E oil for extra moisture. These products make my skin feel and look amazing and provide moisture and protection all day long.
What’s next for Dawn?
Next for Dawn are things that I’m passionate about. I recently wrote a manuscript that’s being published in late April titled “Hustle”. It’s a book that I’ve wanted to write for a long time and finally did it. I’m also in the final stages of developing a Men’s Masculine Hygiene Collection that will be available for men summer 2018. Lastly, I’m working on a docu-series entitled “The Power of Beauty” which is a behind the scenes in depth look into some of the entrepreneurs and key players in the multi cultural beauty industry.
To keep up with Runway Lashes, you can follow them on Instagram and Facebook.