Today we’d like to introduce you to Sylvia Foster.
Hi Sylvia, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I am a passionate creative with a strong Christian faith, arts administration and dance background. Over the years, I have been able to share in opportunities that have aided in cultivating collaborative and unique experiences that empower artistic confidence in a variety of expressions. I deeply enjoy helping others discover and embrace more of their true identity and divine purpose in Christ. The more we understand who we are and what we’re called to do, we are able to show up in the world confident and bold, with the ability to make an impact in lives, communities and systems.
After my undergraduate career, I went on a journey to understand more about womanhood and what that looks like for my life. I gained an interest in makeup and began to learn how to wear it one Youtube tutorial at a time, which eventually led me to get my certification to become a professional makeup artist. In 2020, at the start of the pandemic, I subscribed to a monthly beauty box and enjoyed the benefits of it like the discovery of new brands and products, the price and having more than enough to explore, express and create. After some time, I noticed that not all products were curated and featured with my melanin skin needs in mind. I then became curious to know if there were any black owned beauty brands (other than the major ones like Fenty Beauty, Juvia’s Place etc.) that would be more suitable for my needs.
As I began to do my research, I was shocked to discover that there are many small and independent black owned beauty brands that cater to melanin skin needs and sensitivities. I was immediately inspired (by GOD) with a thought to combine all my passions and create my own beauty box that would declare space for women of color that are often under-represented and served in the beauty industry while at the same time encourage them in faith. This inspiration brought forth my business Creative Glam Box. We started off with the focus solely on beauty boxes but have expanded well beyond that since then.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, being an entrepreneur is hard work and being a Kingdom entrepreneur is even harder work because your character is constantly being refined to GOD’s standard of righteousness. I’ve come to understand and accept that it is truly not about the “destination” but more so about who you become and evolve into throughout the process towards the “destination”.
When I first embarked on this journey, I had no resources, a lot of fear and very limited knowledge on how to start and run a business. There were many long nights filled with tears, high anxiety, and sorrowful prayers. There were many doors I knocked on that wouldn’t open or would open but would immediately close. There were expectations I had that weren’t met and much shame I experienced because of the lack of resources. There were many moments in deep frustration and disappointment, where I wanted to dissolve my business and completely give up on my GOD given dream that was so deeply embedded in my heart.
However, I found that if you choose to keep showing up, there is much beauty and grace in “the wrestle”. The wrestle of letting go of what was to embrace what is new. The wrestle with discovery, truth and revelation. Once I began to yield to the process and trust HIM, I found the blessing(s) in the wrestle. The blessing of new skills being developed, new desires being brought to the surface, a boldness and confidence I had never known before all because I gained truth, wisdom and love in the wrestle. Every challenge, obstacle and hard place you endure, is meant to help you see, grow and actualize what’s always been inside of you.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Creative Glam Box, LLC?
Creative Glam Box is a faith led beauty and lifestyle company designed to create elevated and transformational experiences for the whole women- in spirit, soul and body. We offer thoughtfully curated beauty boxes, professional beauty services, immersive events, and statement apparel and accessories- all created to empower confidence, expression and self-care stewardship.
At the heart of our brand is the belief that true beauty starts within by being rooted in identity and purpose in Christ (Colossians 3:4). We focus on serving women by empowering them to be all that they are fearfully and wonderfully created to be (Pslams 139:14). We desire for all women (and young girls) to express themselves confidently and creatively without hassle and limitation.
Our quarterly beauty boxes highlight quality beauty products, primarily brands owned by people of color, paired with encouraging messages and prompts. These boxes are designed for personal self-care as well as meaningful corporate and client gifting.
Beyond our boxes, we offer professional makeup services for individuals, groups, and special events, along with monthly beauty service packages that allow our clients to enjoy multiple services (makeup, lashes, brows etc) at preferred pricing and exclusive perks.
Additionally, we host classes and events that combine beauty education, community and faith inspiration. Lastly, our apparel and accessories serve as statement pieces that boldly reflect confidence and purpose.
What sets us apart is our intentional approach and commitment to excellence, integrity, service and operating as a Kingdom business. We are passionate about helping to close the confidence and equity gap for both the customer and brand of color in the beauty industry through creating opportunities for visibility and promotion.
What we are most proud of is the standard we are establishing. We are not offering just another service and a box with products- because who really needs another one of those? We are curating an experience that inspires, empowers and transforms. Our goal is for every woman who engages with our brand, leaves feeling confident and reminded of her inherent value.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
You have everything you need to start. In Exodus 4, GOD called Moses to deliver HIS people from Egypt that were enslaved. Moses presented every excuse to GOD as to why he couldn’t fulfill the task because he was looking at what he didn’t have. GOD corrected him by revealing what he was already equipped with.
My initial response to entrepreneurship was very similar to Moses’. I immediately found reasons to exclude myself from this call expressing things like “I don’t have this. . I’ve never done that. . everyone else started their business with this. .etc” while ignoring what I did have in my hands ready to use.
The gifts and passions you have, are enough to start with. The skills you’ve developed and knowledge you’ve accrued over time, is enough to start with. Don’t rob yourself of the joy of the journey by hyper-focusing on what you think limits you. Choose to trust that as you go, the answers and resources will begin to flow. When GOD calls you to something, HE will be faithful to see you through it (Philippians 1:6).
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.creativeglambox.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creativeglambox/?hl=enhttps://
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creaitveglambox/
