Angel Merline, also known as Merline Beauty, is originally from the Congo (DRC) and speaks English, French and Lingala. She started blogging as a way to share her passion for makeup, fashion, and relationships as well as to empower individuals by sharing her life experiences and offering encouragement. She is a pretty quiet person, but her friends have helped her come out of her shell. She has since discovered her strengths and now helps other people find their strengths. She believes everyone has potential in life – you just need to learn how to explore it.
What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?
I started my business during a really tough time in my life, I felt handicapped on few issues, had lost my confidence and was depressed. I suffered from a back injury and wasn’t active either which didn’t help my situation. However, somehow miraculously, I rose again. It was gradual but with the help of great positive friends, my godfather and mother, I was able to have the courage to keep going. During this time I was also studying and trying to work at the same time which was a challenge, but I thank God for His strength and His word that helped me get through it all.
Tell us about your business.
I am a makeup artist and blogger who loves sharing my passion on beauty, fashion and empowering women to live their true purpose in life. I believe every woman has the potential to achieve something in life.
Are you currently running any promos/contests/giveaways that you would like our readers to know about?
I am working on a project for Black History Month which emphasizes togetherness, education, and uplifting one another by sharing and celebrating different cultures. I will also be interviewing people and asking their opinion about Black History Month.
List awards/certifications/accomplishments.
- BSc Public Health 2015
- Makeup Artist certificate 2016
- MSc Public Health 2017
- Featured with Panasonic Men shaving
Where is your business based?
My business is home-based but I go to networking events around London to connect.
What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?
My business started in May 2016. I was doing a makeup artist course online and got connected with one of the brands I represented. While working for the brand, I noticed that I was the only black woman among the group, I also noticed that their products weren’t cheap and I really wanted to try out different makeup and make my own reviews. However, I doubted myself and held myself back. Thankfully my group of friends and family encouraged me and since then I have developed many new skill sets including effective networking, photography, marketing and working on collaborations with amazing people I have met through social media.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
I raise awareness for my business mostly on Instagram, followed by Facebook and Twitter. I am constantly researching how to build my brand online by keeping up with the latest beauty trends and learning how to take the best pictures for marketing and branding.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
My biggest challenge has been being persistent in building my business while also studying for my BSc and Masters. Learning to be patient with myself has also been a challenge, especially since I can be a bit of a perfectionist.
How did you overcome these challenges?
I overcome my obstacles through my faith and my personal relationship with God, which has enabled me to be stronger than ever. I know and I believe I will make an impact on my generation – so watch out!
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
I go to gym 3-4 times a week to keep fit and de-stress. In my spare time I like to watch TV shows like Empire, Power. Watching movies helps me relax.
How do you distinguish yourself from your competitors?
I am not really a competitor, instead I compete with myself. I tell myself that I will be the next “Patricia Bright” because I am passionate in what I do and have learned how to accept criticism and turn it into something positive where I can build myself up.
What is the best advice you have received recently?
“Opportunity comes everyday not once in lifetime therefore don’t swipe up your chances.” – JT Foxx
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
- Be honest and truthful to yourself.
- Surround yourself with positivity.
- Even if you fail hundred times, you will get it right if you stay focused on what you want to achieve.
- Do not allow distractions that will not build up your future.
What are your favourite business tools/resources and why?
Instagram and Twitter are my favorite, they are incredible tools for business growth and have worked out for me so far!
What is a good article or book you have read recently?
“The Confident Woman” by Joyce Meyer.
What are you currently learning about for your business or looking for help with?
I am currently learning more about marketing, setting a foundation for a good blog and starting my public speaking training soon.
What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?
My next goals are:
- More articles on my blog
- More Youtube videos like MerlineTalk Show
- Networking with others and branding
- Looking for help to achieve good mindset
What social media outlets do you use? List them below.
Instagram @merlinebeauty
Twitter @merlinebeauty
Facebook www.facebook.com/merlinebeauty
Website www.merlinebeautyblog.com
Email merlinebeauty01@gmail.com
Hashtags #merlinebeauty #merlineentrepeneur #merlinemua #merlinetalkshow #merlinerelationship