An Interview with Esthetician and Entrepreneur Khabra Bryant

I've known today's bitch for the better part of a decade. I met Khabra in 2006 when we were both staffers for senators in Tennessee's state legislature. Working in politics is rough and depending on who you work for, you can take a lot of abuse. It's an experience people on the outside don't understand. There is a code between staffers:  we will never talk about what happens here and I will always have your back.

Khabra was not only my friend, she was a source of humor, positivity, and Tootsie Rolls. When things got bad, she would tell me, "Something's coming, Kimmie," meaning, this too shall pass. She was right. We both went back to school, got out of there and started our own businesses. Like most busy adults, ours is a friendship that exists mostly online now, but if Khabra ever needs me, I have her back. Meet today's bitch, Khabra "KDB!" Bryant!

What do you make/do and what is the name of your business?

I am the owner and operator of Afiya Esthetics. I'm a licensed esthetician and certified eyelash extension specialist.

When did you first learn about this field of work?

In the early 2000s.

How did you know it was what you wanted to do?

I always had an interest in skin care and beauty. It started with me doing freelance make up art. I loved transforming people and bringing forth inner beauty.

What was your path that lead you to where you are now?

It all began with an interest in simple make up. Once I began to learn about the skin and different treatments that helped people feel better about themselves, I was hooked on all things esthetics!

Why did you decide to start your own business?

I was tired of spending day after day working to make money for everyone but myself.

What was the best piece of business advice you’ve been given?

No matter how you may feel on any particular day, present your brand with consistency and integrity.

What was the most difficult part of starting your business?

Getting the word out. The beauty industry is extremely competitive and it takes lots of word of mouth to really grow.

Can you name the biggest lesson you’ve learned?

Dealing with people is not as easy as it seems.

What would you do with 2 more hours a day?

As an entrepreneur, I eat sleep and breathe my business, so I'd probably take that time to do more work.

What has been the biggest sacrifice you’ve made?

It's hard to date as a business woman. It takes a special type of individual to understand how demanding an entrepreneur’s lifestyle is.

What is your greatest success (or something you’re most proud of) related to what you make?

Working with Carrie Underwood.

What’s the first app or website you open when you wake up in the morning?

Instagram.

Where do you go when you need inspiration for your work?

Church.

How do you decompress at the end of the work day?

A conversation with my mom. 

What’s the hardest thing about being your own boss that isn’t obvious?

The inability to turn my brain completely off.

Lastly, and most important, what is your favorite TV show and what is your favorite snack?

Chopped and white cheddar popcorn.

All photos courtesy of Khabra Bryant

P.S. Meet last week's bitch:  Biology Lab Technician, Chrysa Malosh!

P.P.S. Full list of My Bitches here.