Jessica Michelle Andrews: Blending Beauty and Business Acumen

Jessica Michelle Andrews, the founder of ,J’s Makeup Artistry, is redefining the beauty industry with her unique blend of cosmetics, skincare, and beauty education. Her entrepreneurial journey, marked by the launch of her skincare line and the debut of her Foundation Line, has seen her products grace the shelves of retailers like Hy-Vee, a testament to her dedication and skill.

What does being a black entrepreneur in the Flint Hills mean to you?

“This means so much because I have support from people doing what I do who look like me in this (sometimes) lonely world of entrepreneurship.”

Since receiving the Circle of Community Grant, how have the grant funds assisted you in your business growth?

“The grant has allowed me to attend a week-long intense Entrepreneurial Workshop. I was also on a Reality Entrepreneur TV show called “The Blox.”

How have the Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills (BEFH) supported you in your entrepreneurial journey?

“BEFH has been instrumental in providing much-needed resources and the support I need to continue my journey. I would not have gotten as far as I have if it wasn't for this organization. I have had access to many opportunities while being a part of BEFH. Sheila Glasper (Founder of BEFH) shared with me a group called SistahBiz, an exclusive Entrepreneur group Just for Ethnic women who look like me and are going through the same challenges I face in the Entrepreneurial world."

I joined this organization in 2021, and since being a part of this group of extraordinary entrepreneurs, I have had the opportunity to take part and attend the Sistahbiz Global Network’s Goal Digger Business Planning Retreat two years in a row now, which has totally changed my mindset about how I approach business.

I learned about the Hy-Vee Pitch Competition at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo, through BEFH where I was chosen as one of the top 15 finalists to pitch my business. Shortly after that, BEFH introduced me the the local manager at Hy-Vee in Manhattan, Kansas there, and BEFH coached me on the process of getting my Cosmetic and Skincare line in-store on the shelves in November 2022 at Hy-Vee.

In February 2023, I was cast to be on a reality Entrepreneur TV show called The Blox. I was so grateful to obtain a The Circle of Community Grant from BEFH which allowed me to cover the cost and expenses associated with being on the show. I went through an intense week of Business Training in this Competition and received a wealth of knowledge to elevate my Business.

“Being a part of this organization has elevated me as a person and my business. I look forward to sharing BEFH with as many people as I can. Thank You So Much, BEFH! You Have Changed My Life forever!!!”

Describe the importance of having a black business community like BEFH?

“It gives the ethnic community the support needed to be confident enough to start a business.”

Describe a BEFH event that has helped you in your business?

“I enjoyed the Black & Bankable event! I learned how important it is to be confident in getting a loan from a bank (if needed). Scared money don’t make money.”

Has BEFH referred business to you this year? If so, please mention those opportunities below

“Yes, they have also connected me with other businesses for collaborations”