Tell us something about your studio? Mehndi designing was starting to get kind of demanding and trending during my search for a suitable creative profession. It is the first stepping stone towards my dream of becoming a design artist basically. And as an engineer, I was hesitant to think mehndi designing as a profession. But when I met Ashiqa who trained me initially, also an engineering graduate took this profession seriously and succeeded in it. That gave me the self-confidence and drive to become what I am now.
How can someone start the same business as yours in terms of investment, material procurement, production, and marketing etc? I would say anyone with patience, creativity and some good drawing skills can take up this profession. It is important to have the ability to customize your design according to client’s requirement which I think is challenging in this profession. Materials as such do not cost you much as you require only mehndi powder and some essential oils.
Please share your future goals. I wish to establish a studio encompassing the entire range of services required for bridal grooming with the best of class in the city.
Did you face any challenges while planning and setting up your studio? Of course yes. But I overcame all those things with the support of my friends and my family. And getting clients is the second challenge I faced in my profession at the start.
What's your opinion about whether women can have it all? Yes. I believe women can have it all. It takes assertiveness, support from her family and well planned schedule to have a work and life balance. It all depends on the priority I would say. You cannot satisfy everyone and can’t be happy if you yearn for everything in life.
What piece of advice would you like to give to the aspiring youth who wish to pursue their dream of becoming an entrepreneur? The most important thing i would say is to stop hesitating and take the first step towards your passion. The first step is the most difficult step of all and for all. The rest will be easy if you have the fire to achieve what you love to do. Being woman doesn't restrict you in doing anything. This hesitation has to be first eradicated from your mind. Believe in your ability. Only then your decision making becomes easier.
According to you, what are the top three essential skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Creativity, Patience and Tolerance
How have you managed the work-life balance and has the family been supportive? Managing personal and professional life is tricky in any profession. You require an understanding people around you to manage the clashes. I am lucky I have got such awesome friends and family. Also ability to prioritize and being assertive, avoids the clashes and make your life easy.
What can best empower the women of India– education, politics or business? According to me, education is the most important thing which builds confidence to enter into politics and business.
