Every entrepreneur has a turning point—the moment when challenges feel overwhelming, but resilience, clarity, and support spark transformation. In this conversation with Leslie Perry, now an executive with the Professional Beauty Association (PBA), she shares how she went from running a solo bridal makeup business to becoming a leader shaping the future of professional beauty. Her story offers inspiration, hard-earned wisdom, and a reminder that success is never built alone.
Are You Owning a Company or a Job?
Many entrepreneurs step into business ownership with passion but quickly realize they haven’t truly built a company—they’ve built another job for themselves. Leslie Perry recalls running her bridal makeup and cosmetics business and realizing she was her “least favorite boss.” The freedom she sought often clashed with the reality of managing everything herself.
“If you’re still required to make every decision for your company, you don’t own a company—you own a job.” – Michael Gerber
Key Takeaway: Step back and evaluate—are you running a scalable business, or have you just created a job with more stress and fewer boundaries?
Accepting Where You Started From
Leslie’s career didn’t begin with entrepreneurship. She grew up in her mother’s salon, went on to college, and spent years in corporate America before rediscovering her passion for beauty. That winding path gave her communication skills and perspective that shape her leadership today.
“Accept where you are, use what you have, and build from there.”
Key Takeaway: No path is wasted. The skills and experiences you bring—even from outside the beauty industry—can become powerful assets.
Feelings About Data Driven Conference
When reflecting on the Data Driven conference in Scottsdale, Leslie described it as one of the best she had attended, a space filled with collaboration and inspiration.
“The conversations we had were incredible—ways we could align and strengthen the future of professional beauty together.”
Key Takeaway: Industry events aren’t just networking—they’re opportunities to collaborate and shape the future collectively.
Looking Ahead to NAHA
Excitement also builds for the North American Hairstyling Awards (NaHa). For Leslie, the event is more than glamour—it’s symbolic. She chose emerald green to represent growth and new beginnings in her new role at PBA.
Key Takeaway: Symbolism matters. Even small choices can reflect your intentions and growth.
The Struggle of a Team of 1
Running her own business as a team of one was one of Leslie’s greatest challenges. She quickly learned how isolating it is to juggle every role—artist, marketer, administrator, strategist—alone.
“You can’t do it by yourself. You need support systems.”
Key Takeaway: Success isn’t built on isolation. Support systems—whether people, tools, or processes—are essential.
Keeping Focus on the Fundamentals
In her early days, Leslie spent heavily on custom packaging instead of client-building. Beautiful details mean little without strong business fundamentals.
Key Takeaway: Resist the temptation to focus only on the “pretty” parts of your business. Prioritize strategy, client acquisition, and operations.
Finding and Supporting Your Core Audience
Initially, Leslie thought her ideal clients were younger makeup enthusiasts. But with coaching and clarity, she discovered her true audience was women over 40, who valued her expertise in navigating changing skin and beauty needs.
“When clients can see themselves in your marketing, that’s when success begins.”
Key Takeaway: Clarity on your target audience creates connection, loyalty, and growth.
Divided Attention: The Hidden Detriment
Spray-and-pray marketing left Leslie’s business unfocused. Once she narrowed her attention, results followed.
Key Takeaway: Divided attention weakens impact. Focus your energy where it matters most.
The Importance of Being Good to Yourself
Leslie underscores the role of self-care in sustaining grit. Fitness, unplugging from work, and intentional time management became her survival strategies.
“Grit is doing the things you don’t want to do, even when you don’t feel like it.”
Key Takeaway: Protecting your well-being isn’t indulgence—it’s a strategy for sustainable success.
A Quick Look at the PBA (Professional Beauty Association)
Today, Leslie serves as an executive at PBA, which she describes as the “ultimate connector” for beauty professionals. From education to disaster relief, PBA ensures no salon owner faces challenges alone.
Key Takeaway: Membership with associations like PBA isn’t just about benefits—it’s about standing stronger together.
What a Strong Community Relationship Looks Like
For Leslie, community is the foundation of success. Whether through mentorship, advisory councils, or leadership programs, she emphasizes that connection fuels growth and resilience.
“You’re not alone. You’re not alone. You’re not alone.”
Key Takeaway: Community provides accountability, fresh ideas, and encouragement during tough times.
Summary & Conclusion
Leslie Perry’s journey is proof that success isn’t linear. From struggling as a team of one, to discovering her true audience, to now leading within PBA, she embodies resilience and reinvention.
Key Takeaways:
- Build strong foundations before chasing extras.
- Know your audience deeply.
- Protect your well-being.
- Lean on the community for strength.
At the end of the day, the future of beauty—and your business—thrives when we grow together.
