
Nicole
A loan of $15,000 helps a DC-based beauty studio scale through retail and create space for a wellness collective.

Nicole's story
I grew up in a suburb of Maryland in a two-parent household, with a father in sales and a mother who was a senior executive in the federal government. From them, I learned the value of excellence, determination, and showing up fully. My mother, one of few Black women leaders at her level, inspired me to aim high. Following her example, I began my career in government budget and financial analysis, but a search for makeup classes led me into aesthetics. What started as a side hustle to earn extra income turned into a calling after I posted my first brow transformation on Instagram and my business grew by word of mouth. In 2014, I took a faith-filled leap into a private suite, and in 2016 I opened PRMP Brow & Beauty Studio in Washington, DC, where I’ve trained a team to deliver precision, artistry, and care to our guests.
But success came at a cost. I pushed myself so hard in the early years that I struggled with burnout, anxiety, and health issues. When COVID hit, my daughter was just six months old, and the weight of being both a new mom and a small business owner in such uncertain times took a heavy toll. That season became a turning point. I realized I couldn’t build a business at the expense of my health or family, and I became committed to building one that is both profitable and sustainable.
During the shutdown, I launched my first product—an eyebrow conditioning treatment—which sparked my passion for creating products that extend beyond the treatment room. Today, my focus is on expanding my product line, scaling The Wellthy Esthetician coaching platform, and preparing PRMP to serve as a true wellness hub.