Clipkulture got chatting with Desiree Sargeant, Founder of Barbados-based “Studio Allure” who shared her passions and thoughts about business, Africa and life in general.
Who’s Desirée Sargeant?
Desirée is an enthusiastic “passionate about life and living” individual.
You seem to have some artistic skills and inclinations…could you tell us a bit about that?
Sure Nancy, I’ve always had a special love for art. I would say that I love creating with my hands. As I developed as an adult my skills have diversified into different areas like makeup artistry and interior design.
Hmm… Would you say this has something to do with your upbringing or environment?
I think art for me was natural and a little of my environment as my oldest brother had a love for art also. I just loved drawing as a child. I think I picked up some things from him as I got older.
What was growing up like for you?
I was raised between the country and the city in Barbados. My grandparents were from the country side and my parents lived in the city. I spent more time with my grandparents as my parents were working and it was more convenient to be with my grandparents.
Being with them was fun with some strict rules and regulations combined.
It was the grounding for the person I am.
So how do you express your art now?
My expression is mainly through makeup these days. A bit of interior design also but more makeup artistry.
Tell us a bit about Studio Allure
Studio Allure is a premium beauty studio offering makeup and beauty therapy services to locals and visitors.
Styling for bridal and HD photography is our passion. I love working with brides as I use to be an event and wedding planner so offering makeup services to brides comes very natural.
A little birdie told us you’re adding some Afrocentric spice to your wedding services, can you shed more light on that?
Sure! I believe there is a market in Barbados for afrocentric fashion and makeup services. From my research the afrocentric stylings are very elegant and classy.
And adding this service will give more variety to the local afrocentric at heart. Which only needs developing.
So are we correct to say Studio Allure will revolutionize the way weddings are organized in Barbados by adding that Afrocentric touch?
Yes, that is my distinct wish and hope. But we are taking it one step at a time.
How would you sell Barbados to me?
We are a developing third world country. With a stable government and economy based on tourism, sugar, rum and molasses.
We boost of year round sunshine, an idealic spot for rest and relaxation and the envy of our Caribbean neighbors. Our currency is the Barbados dollar which is tied to the US dollar at a two-to-one parity.
We are a member of the British Commonwealth empire and became independent on November 30th 1966.
The 166 square mile island is run by a 30 member parliament lead by Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley.
Our Governor General is Dame Sandra Mason, who is the representative of Her Majesty The Queen.
Wow! You sound like the Minister for Tourism! On a Scale of 1 to 10 how would you rate your knowledge about Africa?
I would say 4. I may know more than I think.
What countries would you like to visit in Africa?
Nigeria of course. I have friends there that I’d love to meet. Egypt, as makeup has its origins through the 7th Pharaoh Cleopatra. Casablanca as its very westernized.
So what does Desirée consider to be a turn off?
Graphic detail of accidents and morbid videos of tragedies, not to mention fake news sent to me via WhatsApps
Oh dear, I think a lot of readers would be able to identify with you there when it comes to the WhatsApp gory videos and fake news.
What limiting habit do you think you need to break?
Procrastination.
Mmm…Proscrastination is a popular challenge that many entrepreneurs need to learn how to overcome. Always remember that if you wait for perfect conditions you’ll never get anything done.
What’s on your wishlist for the next five years?
The development of Studio Allure into an industry leader; my personal comfort, good health and happiness.
Thank you for spending time with us!
It was a pleasure chatting with you, as always.
You can contact Desirée on Instagram HERE
