Smoky eyeshadow, extreme contour and cat eye makeup techniques are all the rage right now, but those looks can be a bit much for the work environment. That's why Own Your Wonder wants to give busy women quick makeup sessions before they head to the office.
Founded by former merger and acquisition lawyer and banker Kristina Han, Own Your Wonder sits in the heart of D.C. to help brides, businesswomen and more look their best.
"I have two little kids, so I've been in this fog for a year where I would wake up and just put my hair in a ponytail and walk out the door," Han said. "I wanted to start looking more presentable and like I'd had eight hours of sleep."
One of Han's biggest issues with her morning routine is applying makeup.
"I hate it," Han said. "I'm also really bad at it, but I can't walk out of the house without makeup and look like Meghan Markle."
Han's idea for Own Your Wonder came when she could not find a beauty bar to do subtle makeup for her before meetings and work.
Most of the makeup session packages are 30 minutes with a licensed cosmetologist and range from $20 to $40. Clients can book appointments online or walk in for makeup sessions.
Own Your Wonder also has membership services, makeup lessons and bridal sessions. The company hosts Wednesday workshops that teach women basic makeup techniques and how to complete the latest trends at home.
The company also offers a headshot package that includes a 30-minute makeup session, a photoshoot and 10 photos.
"It's something fun to do, but it's also great for community building," Han said.
Han said her decision to make a brick-and-mortar store was to get clients out of the house and in a space where they did not have to worry about appearances.
"I wanted a place where women could enjoy a cup of coffee without their kids while getting their makeup done," she said. "That peace seemed like an affordable luxury to me."
Own Your Wonder makeup artists are able to work with all skin types and have makeup that matches every skin. Han currently employees eight freelancers, but continues to look for more throughout the year.
More than a year after coming up with the concept for Own Your Wonder, Han has bootstrapped the company and opened its doors to the businesswomen and brides of D.C. Now, she hopes the brand can build a stronger online presence and raise more funding.
