Meet AMBER FLADIE

We were lucky to catch up with AMBER FLADIE recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi AMBER, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.

I think imposter syndrome showed up the most for me when I opened my first business. I’d look around at other successful owners and think, ‘Who am I to be doing this and how could I ever be successful?’ Even though I had the skills and passion, there was this voice that kept saying I wasn’t experienced enough or that people would somehow ‘find out’ I didn’t have it all together.

What helped me start overcoming that was realizing that everyone I admired had those same doubts at some point and they just kept going anyway. I started keeping a small list on my phone of client feedback, milestones, and moments that made me proud. On the days I felt like a fraud, I’d look back at that list and remind myself: these aren’t opinions, these are facts and I’ve earned my place here.

I also learned to reframe those nervous thoughts as signs that I was stepping into something new and growing. Now, whenever that feeling creeps in, I take it as a reminder that I’m pushing myself and that’s a good thing.

So, if anyone here struggles with imposter syndrome, my biggest advice is: don’t wait to feel ready. Confidence doesn’t come before action – it comes from it. You belong in every space you’re working to be in.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

My business began with airbrush tanning, offering clients a natural-looking glow that helped them feel confident and radiant. As the demand grew, I saw an opportunity to expand that same confidence-boosting experience into other areas of beauty, which led to the opening of our blow dry bar. The goal has always been to create a space where clients can come for more than just a service; it’s about feeling refreshed, cared for, and ready to take on anything.

What sets our brand apart is the focus on providing a high-end experience that’s still approachable and personal. Every detail, from the atmosphere to the service offerings, is designed to make clients feel comfortable and confident. As we continue to grow, I’m excited to share that we’re adding both a body waxing specialist and a color specialist to our team. These additions allow us to expand our menu of services and continue offering clients everything they need to look and feel their best under one roof.

Our evolution reflects the heart of what we do: empowering confidence through beauty, and creating a place where people know they’ll leave looking polished and feeling incredible.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, the three qualities that have made the biggest difference in my journey are resilience, connection, and vision.
Resilience has been essential. Owning and growing a business comes with challenges you can’t always predict, and there were moments early on when it would’ve been easier to give up. But I learned that every setback taught me something valuable about myself, my business, or my clients.

Connection has been at the heart of everything I do. My brand is built around creating an experience that makes people feel seen, confident, and cared for. Building relationships and not just transactions has led to the most meaningful growth, both personally and professionally.

And finally, vision. Having a clear sense of what I wanted my business to represent kept me grounded, even when things felt uncertain. It helped me make decisions that stayed true to my brand and the community I wanted to build.

For those just starting out, my advice is to be patient with yourself. Growth takes time. Say yes to learning opportunities, even if they’re uncomfortable. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Each experience, whether it’s a success or a setback, is shaping you for what’s next.

What would you advise – going all in on your strengths or investing on areas where you aren’t as strong to be more well-rounded?

I believe there’s real value in improving areas where we’re not as strong because it helps us grow, stay adaptable, and understand different perspectives. But I also think the greatest impact comes from leaning into our strengths. When we go all-in on what we do best, we operate from a place of confidence and authenticity, and that energy tends to elevate everything around us.

In my own experience, focusing on my strengths has allowed me to create better results and a stronger brand identity. For example, I’ve learned that my strengths lie in creativity, client connection, and vision-building so I’ve built my business and team around those. Rather than trying to be great at everything, I collaborate with people who excel in areas where I’m not as strong. This approach not only fills in the gaps but also empowers others to shine in their strengths, creating a more balanced and effective team overall.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.blownandbronzed.com
• Instagram: @blownandbronzed
• Facebook: @blownandbronzed
• Other: I also have @shimmerbyamber on Facebook and Instagram

Image Credits

Lelia Norton
Images by Michelle