Today we’d like to introduce you to Francesca aka “Free” Simon.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
As a kid I loved art and beauty. I always looked forward to art class, as it was an outlet for creative expression. I think it’s pretty cool that as an adult, I actually get to do that on people’s faces! Who would’ve thought? You never know where life will take you!
My work in the beauty field started out pretty organically. I didn’t exactly plan it – but here’s how it all happened. About ten years ago, I started developing an interest in makeup artistry. I was really inspired by makeup tutorials on YouTube. I started practicing on myself as well as my friends and family. It was really just for fun, it didn’t even cross my mind that I could make a career out of it.
Around that same time I had a few friends starting out in the photography, and fashion industry. They began working on various creative projects in and around our community. Next thing I knew, they were calling me in to work on their clients. They told their friends, who told other friends, and the calls kept coming! I was being booked for all kinds of special events- weddings, photography shoots, baby showers, proms etc. So really, I have word of mouth, to thank for propelling me into the beauty industry. I really wanted to grow and perfect what I was doing so I attended Elizabeth Grady School of Esthetics and Massage therapy. I learned a great deal about skincare and honed my professional makeup artistry skills in school.
Although I started with makeup, natural hair care is also near and dear to my heart. As a woman of color, I struggled to find hairstyles that were healthy for my hair, and didn’t require a ton of maintenance. One day while walking around downtown Boston, I saw a woman with the tiniest locks I’d ever seen. They were a beautiful honey brown color and were styled with soft curls. Absolutely gorgeous! I asked her about them and was introduced to hair heaven! I had discovered an all-natural hair care system called Sisterlocks. This hair care system embodied everything I was looking for in terms of styling versatility and minimal maintenance for up keep. Not only did I join the community of women wearing this protective style, I wanted to share this gem with others. In 2011, I took the training required to become a Certified Sisterlocks Practitioner myself! One of my greatest joys is helping women not only look their best, but more importantly, feel their best. I’m so grateful, I get to do that for a living.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
As much as I love what I do, I can’t say that it doesn’t come with its challenges. Social media has become the platform and language of our culture. Creating engaging content, while maintaining a steady income can be quite the challenge. Strategic marketing and word of mouth is key to standing out, maintaining longevity and keeping business afloat. Nothing worth having comes easy, this is my passion, so I’m up for the challenge!
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Look Lush Naturals story. Tell us more about the business.
Look Lush Naturals is a brand that believes beauty is so much more than outward appearance. We recognize the importance of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellness. 1 Peter 3:3-4 talks about true beauty being in the hidden person of the heart. We truly value humanity, and choose to use beauty as a bridge to promote all aspects of wellness.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I don’t believe in luck. I believe passion – paired with hard work, dedication and consistency is the key to success.
Contact Info:
- Phone: (781) 626-2831
- Email: looklushlady@gmail.com
- Instagram: looklushnaturals
Image Credit:
Professional Images by Fena Fenelon, 1 by Conor Doherty and 1 by Joel Benjamin, 2 by Michael Loiuiro
Getting in touch: BostonVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
