Today we’d like to introduce you to LaTasha Benn.
Hi LaTasha, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I moved to Tampa over two years ago from Chicago. When I originally moved here, I was solely a Makeup Artist, primarily doing makeup for weddings and individual clients in their homes. I did not have a storefront or shop to work out of, so I marketed myself as a “traveling makeup artist.” It was a temporary solution at first. However, even to this day, I still operate as a traveling makeup artist, and I love it! I give my clients the convenience of getting their makeup done in the comfort of their own homes. Since I’ve moved to Tampa, I’ve also help start two additional businesses. In addition to being a makeup artist, I’m also co-owner of two small businesses – RATE Brand & Apparel, an athletic clothing line founded by my business partner, John Anthony; And Comfy Sorts, a handmade chunky blanket company where I crochet and hand-knit chunky & jumbo blankets. Both businesses have grown expeditiously in a matter of months, and I’m so proud to be a part of both. I guess you can call me a “serial entrepreneur.” I never want to do one thing. I want to do as much as I can!
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?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. COVID affected my makeup business tremendously, which is how I was able to focus on my other two businesses. But moving from a city where I had lived for 20+ years and having to start building my clientele and a name for myself all over again in a new city was also somewhat of a challenge, but nevertheless, a fun one.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I like to call myself a Serial Entrepreneur / Creative. I’m a Makeup Artist, Blanket Maker, and co-own an Athletic Apparel brand. All of these are completely different, but the one thing they have in common is me. I have a background in Human Resources, so I know a lot about what goes on behind the scenes in a business, so I am very knowledgeable about what it takes to start a business. I’ve always been creative, so I’m pretty good at coming up with unique, fun & creative ideas.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lessons I’ve learned are to network, not be afraid to talk to anyone about what you do, because you never know who knows who or who can do what to support you and not be afraid. If it’s scary, it probably means you SHOULD be doing it.
Contact Info:
- Email: latasha@lybartistry.com
- Website: www.loveyourbeautyllc.com
- Instagram: @lybartistryofficial / @ratebyjohnanthony / @comfysorts
Image Credits
Photographer for main photo: Ashlee Noelle / ashleenoellecreative.com
