Meet Shandreka Marshall

We recently connected with Shandreka Marshall and have shared our conversation below.

Shandreka, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?

I grew up in a small town, raised by a single mother who worked tirelessly to support six children on her own. Life wasn’t easy, and I often found myself longing for something more. That search for a better future led me to Fort Worth, where I lived with my grandfather, uncle, and aunt. It was a period of deep self-discovery, filled with personal struggles and uncertainty.
At 17, I began living independently and worked a 9-to-5 job to support myself. Eventually, I found my passion in bartending, which led me to spend five years working two jobs in Monroe, Louisiana. At 31, I became a mother to my daughter, Carl’Dasia Deionne—my greatest blessing, my best friend, and the reason I keep going.
When the pandemic hit, I lost both jobs and knew I had to find a new path—not just to survive, but to create stability for my daughter. I obtained my liquor license in 2021 and opened a store in Louisiana. Despite my experience, the business struggled due to COVID shutdowns and a lack of support from those around me. Ultimately, I made the difficult choice to close the store and move back to Fort Worth with my daughter to start over.
Starting fresh was incredibly hard. I juggled multiple jobs and searched for affordable childcare, but the costs were overwhelming. I eventually had to send my daughter to Louisiana to stay with family while I tried to rebuild our lives—it was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made. The emotional toll was heavy, and when my family could no longer keep her, I left my job to bring her back home.
We faced homelessness, financial hardship, and countless obstacles. But I never gave up.
During this time, I reconnected with an old love: beauty, skincare, and makeup. I realized I could turn this passion into a meaningful career. I applied to Ogle Beauty School, was accepted, and received a scholarship. With the help of my brother, who stepped in to help care for my daughter, I was able to pursue my dream of becoming an esthetician.
My goal is to master my craft and one day open my own skincare and beauty business—a space where clients feel empowered, confident, and cared for. I also hope to mentor others, especially women overcoming their own struggles, and help them find confidence and direction through aesthetics.
Despite every setback, I remain driven and full of hope. This journey has been anything but easy, but it has shaped me into a resilient, passionate woman determined to build a better future for my daughter and myself. 

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

Hello! I’m Shandreka Marshall, a 37-year-old esthetician-in-training and proud mother to my 5-year-old daughter, Carl’Dasia. Based in Denton, Texas, I’m currently pursuing my passion for beauty and wellness at Ogle Beauty School.
My interest in esthetics is rooted in a love for skincare, makeup artistry, and holistic wellness. I enjoy experimenting with different products, staying up to date with beauty trends, and discovering new ways to help people look and feel their best. For me, makeup isn’t just about appearance—it’s a powerful form of self-expression and confidence-building.
I hold a valid esthetician license through February 23, 2027, and have completed training in the Fundamentals of Esthetics, along with additional programs such as Prosper U, Money Habits, Canvas ME, and the MUD Vitality Project. These experiences have helped me grow both technically and personally, reinforcing my belief in the connection between beauty, self-care, and overall well-being.
As I continue my training, I’m working to master a wide range of techniques—from makeup application and facials to brow and body waxing. I’m especially drawn to the holistic side of beauty and believe that caring for the skin is also a way to nurture the spirit.
Outside of school and work, I cherish time spent with my daughter, enjoy being in nature, and love participating in wellness workshops. As a mother, I’m committed to setting an example for my daughter by balancing ambition with care and teaching her the importance of self-love and self-care.
My long-term vision is to launch my own beauty business, EstheticsByShandreka, where I’ll offer services such as:

* Brow waxing, lamination, and tinting
* 3D lash applications
* Full face and body waxing
* Rejuvenating facials (30–60 minutes)
As I grow in this field, I’m excited to connect with other professionals, share knowledge, and contribute to innovative, inclusive beauty practices. I believe everyone has their own unique artistry, and my mission is to help each client feel confident, empowered, and beautiful in their own skin.

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?

Technical Proficiency
Mastering core esthetic techniques is essential to providing excellent services. Here’s how to develop and refine your skills:

* Invest in Education
Enroll in accredited beauty schools, workshops, or online courses that cover everything from skincare and makeup to waxing and facial techniques. Learning from experienced professionals provides real-world insight and hands-on experience.
* Practice Consistently
Skill comes with repetition. Practice on friends, family, or even yourself to build confidence and precision. Keep a portfolio of your work—it’s a great way to showcase your growth and attract future clients.
* Seek Constructive Feedback
Don’t be afraid to ask mentors or peers for input. Honest feedback can help you recognize blind spots and improve your technique faster than working alone.

Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Strong client relationships are built on trust, and that starts with how you communicate.

* Active Listening
Truly listen to your clients’ needs, preferences, and concerns. Avoid interrupting, and take mental or written notes during consultations. Being fully present helps your clients feel heard and respected.
* Show Empathy
Every client has a story. Understanding their insecurities or goals allows you to personalize your services and create a more meaningful, comfortable experience.
* Practice Real-Life Scenarios
Role-playing with classmates or mentors can prepare you for real-world conversations—whether it’s a first-time consultation, handling a complaint, or recommending aftercare. Confidence grows through preparation.

Continuous Learning & Adaptability
The beauty industry is always evolving, and staying current is essential.

* Stay Updated on Trends
Follow beauty blogs, social media influencers, and industry publications to stay on top of the latest products, techniques, and client preferences. Staying informed helps keep your services fresh and in demand.
* Build a Professional Network
Attend trade shows, industry workshops, or local beauty events. Networking helps you learn from others, find mentors, and discover opportunities for growth or collaboration.
* Embrace Change
Don’t shy away from new technology or trends. Being open to innovation allows you to expand your services and remain competitive in a fast-paced industry.

Final Thoughts
Becoming a successful esthetician doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time, effort, and a true passion for growth. By continuously learning, refining your technical skills, and connecting authentically with your clients, you’ll not only thrive in your career—you’ll also make a lasting impact on those you serve.
Remember: your journey in beauty is just as important as the destination. Stay dedicated, stay curious, and let your passion shine through every service you provide.

Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?

Book: The Freedom Formula: How to Put Soul in Your Business and Money in Your Bank by Christine Kloser
This book has been a game-changer for me as an esthetician. It helped me shift my perspective—seeing my work not just as a job, but as a soulful calling that can bring real freedom, fulfillment, and purpose.
One of the most powerful lessons I took from it is the idea that I have the power of choice and can actively shape my reality. Every decision I make—how I treat my clients, the services I offer, how I show up—can either align or misalign with my deeper purpose. When I lead with authenticity and heart, I naturally attract clients who value what I offer on a deeper level, making my work more meaningful and rewarding.
Another key takeaway was the blend of spiritual principles with practical business strategies. The book showed me that I don’t have to compromise who I am to build a successful business. In fact, being fully myself—authentic, passionate, and aligned—is my competitive advantage. It reminded me that when I focus on expressing who I truly am, competition fades into the background.
Overall, The Freedom Formula has inspired me to build my esthetics practice with heart, integrity, and intention—creating a life of abundance and joy while making a positive impact on the lives of my clients.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Shandrekaesthetics.com
• Instagram: Shandreka37_Deionne
• Other: TikTok: Shannideionne37 @shanni37deionnefutureest

Image Credits

Dezember Sosebee