Evenita Ren is a testament to the age-old adage that “you can do anything if you put your mind to it.”
A certified and trained expert Beauty Consultant, Evenita has worked in the beauty industry for nearly two decades. She started as an Apprentice in Cosmetology and began doing hair and eyebrows on campus while enrolled at Clark Atlanta University‘s (CAU) Business Finance program. She was able to parlay contacts made in her CAU days to get gigs working independently on films, commercials, and editorial projects as the Lead Makeup and Hairstylist before freelancing as a makeup artist with MAC Cosmetics.
Having wet her toes in the world of modeling, acting, and even reality television, the 30-something Chicago native has found her niche as an esthetician and owner of multiple businesses, including her Renway Beauty shop in South Shore.
N’DIGO recently caught up with the multi-hyphenate businesswoman to talk about a host of things, including her numerous businesses and her annual back-to-school supply giveaway.
N’DIGO: In your own words, who is Evenita Ren?
Evenita Ren: I am a daughter, sister, friend, and multi-talented business owner who isn’t afraid to shake things up.
Please tell us about Renway Beauty.
Renway Beauty is a full-service beauty oasis that offers Esthetics, Permanent Makeup, Body Jewelry, Beauty Services, and Beauty Products, Microblading, Ombre Powder Brows, and Lip Blushing are a few popular services offered in addition to Mink Eyelash Extensions, Eyebrow Shaping and Creation, Lash lifts, Brow lamination, and overall Beauty Consultation.
We provide a look that is both natural and custom fit your facial features to enhance your image. I consider one’s lifestyle and daily routine for a look that will work best with their needs.
Have you always had a love of beautifying others?
I have definitely loved beauty since I was little. I remember crying because I could not style my dolls’ bangs how I thought they should be. I was my first model and used my hair and makeup as my creative outlet.
In addition to Renway Beauty, you’ve also recently launched Clean Body Jewelry. Can you tell us a little about it?
Clean body jewelry are beautiful pieces of earrings and body chains, accessories, and swimwear. Available at Renway Beauty Chicago or online at www.cleanbodyjewelry.com.
Please tell us about the Annual Back To School event that you host.
Every year right before the school year starts, we do the back-to-school event and supply drive and encourage our clients and those from the neighborhood that can donate items to do so. We’ll have a DJ, games for the kids, refreshments, and live entertainment. It’s just a way for us to give back to the community. I think it’s important to give back to the underserved and the young people in your neighborhood and maybe give hope and inspire them.
What are three principles or ideals you try to abide by in your business dealings?
Be professional.
Continue learning about your craft.
Don’t be afraid of growth.
How do you juggle all your business endeavors and still maintain your personal life and overall life as a multi-hyphenate business owner?
As busy as I am, I have learned that it is essential to find and make time for yourself. You can’t lose yourself. I have developed a great support system around me. Also, I can’t stress this enough, discipline is everything! Once you learn to be disciplined about things, you cannot limit what you can accomplish.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
I am also an actress and have a few projects that I’ve been working on coming soon!
Can you name a book that changed or really impacted your life and give a sentence about why?
“As A Man Thinketh” by James Allen. It’s a short read but gives great life advice.
Best advice to aspiring business owners?
Always believe in yourself and keep working at it, even after you get it! Make sure you have the income to cover your living expenses while you are starting out. I had a second job while building my business during the first two years. Invest in QuickBooks to track and manage business expenses. Open a business bank account and keep your personal finances separate. Utilize the resources in your city & state to learn and gain opportunities in your industry.
Favorite quote or affirmation?
“Stay true to yourself.”
What’s next for Evenita Ren?
I am really excited about Renway Beauty Club, that’s in the works and will be up and running soon. It’s an enrichment program at KIPP Bloom College Prep Englewood for grades 5-8. The beauty club will work with young girls after school to promote beauty, wellness, hygiene, and etiquette.
For more information on Evenita and Renway Beauty, connect with them on Facebook and Instagram.
