The Journey of Mae Beauty: From Corporate Life to Passion Project

Starting a business is often a leap of faith, and my journey with Mae Beauty is no exception. It all began with a simple idea that blossomed into a full-time passion. Today, I want to share the story behind the name, my transition from a 9-5 job, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that drives my work.

The Origin of 'Mae'

The name "Mae" holds a special significance for me. It is derived from my great-grandmother's name (My Mum's Granny Mae). The woman who my mother held dear to her heart. And so began the legacy of Mae - She'd named her fist daughter (AKA me) Natalie Mae.

Fast Forward years later, my mother reconnected with her high school sweetheart, who coincidentally names his daughter with the same middle name.

I am now blessed with two beautiful nieces who also carry 'Mae' as their middle name. They are the first-born daughters of my brother and step-sister.

I like to think of Mae Beauty as my first-born child, a project I hope to nurture and grow into an empire.

Leaving the 9-5 Behind

Making the decision to leave my stable 9-5 job was not easy. I had spent many hours contemplating how I wanted to grow professionally, but ultimately, I knew that my true passion lay in the beauty industry. The turning point came when I realised that I was spending more time dreaming about my own business than focusing on my corporate responsibilities.

With a mix of excitement and fear, I took the plunge. I remember the day I handed in my resignation; it felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. I was finally ready to pursue my dream of providing the best brows and lashes in Queenstown.

Transitioning from a structured work environment to running my own business was both liberating and challenging. They say that you gain a lot of freedom when you leave your 9-5 to pursue your dreams, but I have gone from 9-5 to 24/7! No regrets though.

The Drive for Excellence

One of the most significant aspects of my journey is my critical nature when it comes to my work. I hold myself to high standards, and this drive for excellence is what sets Mae Beauty apart. I believe that every client deserves the best, whether they are coming in for a brow shape and tint or a lash lift.

Being super critical of my work means that I am constantly seeking ways to improve. I spend hours researching the latest trends, techniques, and products to ensure that I am offering the best services possible. This dedication not only enhances my skills but also builds trust with my clients, who know they are in capable hands.

I often remind myself that beauty is not just about aesthetics; it’s about how a person feels when they look in the mirror. My goal is to empower my clients to embrace their unique beauty, and I strive to create an environment where they feel comfortable and valued.

Building a Community

As I embarked on this journey, I quickly realised that Mae Beauty is more than just a business; it’s a community. I have had the privilege of meeting incredible individuals who share my passion for beauty and self-care. Each client brings their own story, and I cherish the connections I’ve made along the way.

I believe that beauty is a shared experience, and I aim to foster a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels included. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, I want you to feel like part of the Mae Beauty family.

The Future of Mae Beauty

Looking ahead, I am excited about the future of Mae Beauty. I have plans to expand my services, including beauty product offerings, and other innovative treatments that cater to the evolving needs of my clients. I am committed to staying ahead of the curve and continuously enhancing the experience I provide.

A tranquil beauty studio that reflects the essence of Mae Beauty