Lash Out Loud: Winks By Thanie Brings Your Beauty to Life
When it comes to enhancing beauty and boosting confidence, Winks By Thanie is truly a lash above the rest. Founded by the talented and passionate Nathania (Thanie), this business specializes in creating stunning, customized lash looks that leave clients feeling radiant and empowered. With a dedication to precision and creativity, Thanie has built a reputation for delivering lashes that are nothing short of extraordinary. Whether you’re dreaming of a natural, understated look or bold, show-stopping glamour, Winks By Thanie showcases the artistry and expertise that make every client feel like their most beautiful self.
Name one accomplishment in your business this far that you are proud of.
“An accomplishment in my business that fills me with pride is being a sold-out vendor at Taco and Tequila in Kansas City during the summer of 2022. This achievement took me taking significant risks and meticulous preparation to ensure success at an event that drew nearly 80,000 spectators. It not only marked a major point of sales but also represented the culmination of dedication, strategic planning, and the ability to meet the demands of a large-scale event. This accomplishment serves as a testament to the resilience and effectiveness of our business strategies in navigating a high-profile and dynamic market, and it remains a memorable milestone in our journey.”
Since receiving the Circle of Community Grant how have the grant funds assisted you in your business growth?
“Being a recipient of the Circle of Community Grant has been an asset to our business growth. I'm thrilled to share the exciting developments at Winks by Thanie. A portion of the grant funds has been channeled towards expanding our inventory and developing new additions to our Mink lash collection. This has allowed us to cater to a broader audience with diverse preferences in lash lengths and styles. We have not only enhanced our Mink lash collection, but also diversified our offerings to empower and elevate the dance athletes through Winks Consulting. Winks Consulting has become a focal point in our mission. We empower dance athletes to express their artistry through the enhancement of their natural beauty with our stunning lashes. This unique consulting aspect provides personalized guidance on lash selection, application techniques, and overall stage presence. Winks by Thanie has ventured into wholesaling partnerships to make our products more widely accessible. Dance studios and performance groups can now incorporate our lashes seamlessly into their routines, enhancing the overall aesthetic of their performances. Our commitment to enhancing the customer experience led to the update of our website and the integration of a Try-On feature on our website. This innovative tool allows customers to virtually try on different lashes, ensuring they find the perfect match for their style before making a purchase. We are deeply grateful for the support provided by the Circle of Community Grant, and we are confident that these initiatives will contribute significantly to our continued success.”
What does being a black entrepreneur in the Flint Hills mean to you?
“Being a Black entrepreneur in the Flint Hills means a lot to me. It's like being apart of this dynamic, tight-knit family where everyone's got your back. It's more than just business; it's about shared experiences, learning from each other, and celebrating wins together. You're not just a business owner; you're part of a community that understands the ups and downs of being an entrepreneur of color. Being a black entrepreneur is also about bringing your own flavor to the mix. It's a chance to showcase unique perspectives and ideas, adding some much-needed diversity to the local business scene. It's about breaking down stereotypes and proving that success has no limits when you've got passion, work hard, and a community cheering you on. It’s the safe space!”
How has BEFH supported you in your entrepreneurial journey thus far?
“The Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills have been an absolute game-changer in helping Winks by Thanie grow. Since the early days of Winks by Thanie, I've had the privilege of having one-on-one calls with BEFH founders who've really pushed the envelope with my ideas. I've been given chances to attend out-of-state events for some seriously helpful technical training and exposure . Being part of this community is like having a second family. It's been a huge inspiration, creating this amazing space where everyone shares their experiences and insights. It's not just about my business – it's about all of us, a group of hardworking black entrepreneurs, coming together, exchanging ideas, resources, and cheering each other on. This supportive vibe has played a huge role in getting my business off the ground and keeping it going strong. This community has been there for me, providing funding that's kept Winks by Thanie scaling up. They've given me opportunities to fine-tune and expand my business in ways I wouldn't have dreamed of.”
Describe the importance of having a business community like BEFH.
“The significance of having a black business community like BEFH cannot be overstated. This community serves as a crucial support system where entrepreneurs share their unique experiences, creating a shared understanding that helps navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. Beyond individual businesses, BEFH fosters a collaborative network, enabling entrepreneurs to forge meaningful connections, share resources, and collectively elevate one another. The mentorship opportunities within the community provide invaluable guidance based on real-world experiences, contributing to the growth and sustainability of businesses. Additionally, BEFH enhances the visibility of black-owned businesses, challenging stereotypes and advocating for equal opportunities. ”
Please describe a BEFH event that has helped you in your business? (ie. networking opportunities, training, class, event, coaching session, learning something you didn't know, a feeling of community or safe space etc.)
“One BEFH event that significantly impacted my business was the BEFH Entrepreneurial Expo that happened summer of 2021 where I had the opportunity to showcase my brand, Winks by Thanie. The event provided a rich platform for networking, exposing me to a diverse array of fellow entrepreneurs, each with their own stories and insights. Engaging with others in the community not but the flint hills customer base.”
Has BEFH referred business to you this year? If so, please mention some of those opportunities that BEFH has provided thus far.
“Black Joy Event - placed product in gift bags and shared hared posted on social platforms.”
