We recently connected with Kimberly Merritt-Watts and have shared our conversation below.
Kimberly, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
There have been times when my brand has led me to spaces where I am the minority. The one thing that carries my confidence is that I know what I’m talking about…for the most part Although LSquared Beauty is nearing four years in business, my knowledge and experience in the beauty and wellness industry date back to my early teens. I have tried, read, studied, followed, so many aspects of my field that I feel comfortable speaking about it in any format. Remember I said “I know what I talking about.”? Well, in the rare case that I don’t know, I listen. I’ve learned to listen to comprehend and retain vital information to take back for further research or implementation within my business and brand.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
LSquared Beauty and Cosmetics began as an e-commerce store serving up luscious lip glosses and flirty eyelashes. Since 2020 it has grown into a eclectic and nurturing beauty and wellness space. Our e-commerce store is thriving as a hub where our squad can come and secure the cutest natural nude glosses, durable and wispy eyelash extensions, and the occasional surprise product drop. We are building community relationships and partnering in initiatives to elevate and advocate for minority beauty brands spaces in local and surrounding areas. Collaborating with like minded individuals and brands opens your brand up to so many exciting opportunities. One more exciting development is our entrance into the live production arena. As a makeup enthusiast turned rookie makeup artist, I’ve made my way backstage! I have had to opportunity to take LSquared Beauty behind the scenes of some really great productions. The opportunity to network, practice, learn, and grow in such a face past environment is definitely for the thrill seeking folks. I adore each and every opportunity.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
The three most impactful qualities that have helped me on this journey are, communication skills, outgoing personality, and being a risk taker. Because I am a team of one, these three things go hand in hand when venturing out in the world as a solo-prenuer. The risk taker in me allows me to secure my spot at events where I have no plus one. I know I have to walk in with my head held high and exude confidence and security. My strong communication skills are able to shine through my nervousness. My outgoing personality matched with my curiosity helps prepare me for the setting. If its the first time, I research, go through social media accounts of the organizers, look for reviews of past events, how casual or fashionable they are dressed, and who has been in the past. I take all of that into account when stepping out alone for the first time.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I am always open to collaboration and partnerships in the beauty and wellness space. It could be in the form of a wholesale relationship, where I supply my products for you to showcase in your store, shop or boutique. Because of my career in disability advocacy, I’m looking to partner with a service provider to assist them with the “how” of offering services that are diverse and accommodating to people with disabilities. Speaking engagements/panel discussions are another area I’m interested in developing over the next year. I’m just waiting to secure that first opportunity that aligns with my brands missions and values. I’m always down for a content creation collab! Beauty team collabs are my fave right now. I’m so excited to find more beauty professionals and rookies to work with in similar spaces.
Contact Info:
- Website: lsquaredbykim.com
- Instagram: @LSquaredbyKim and @Kandidly.Kim
- Facebook: @LSquaredbyKim
