As the mastermind behind London’s luxury boutique Beauty Edit Mayfair, a clean beauty concept store, Sherrille Riley has achieved an exceptional career, solidifying her position as a leading authority in the professional beauty industry, but that hasn’t come without some challenges.
From beautician to salon owner and businesswoman, your career in beauty has spanned decades. Which business skills and traits have been crucial to your success?
I have been working as a beautician for 27 years now, and I thoroughly enjoy the evolving industry. In 2002, I decided to set up my own treatment suite by subletting a basement in a luxurious Mayfair salon, and it turned out to be a significant turning point in my career. I had to learn fast with regards to how to promote myself and innovate, all whilst delivering top-notch customer care. It came with great challenges, and a LOT of learning, but the rewards were great, and this inspired me to continue. The main qualities that I rely on to consistently deliver in my businesses are self-determination, a passion for the beauty industry, my creative flair, and a can-do, will-do attitude. These qualities have not only shaped my career, but have allowed me to connect with clients on a personal level.
Talk us through a day in the life of Sherrille Riley!
My typical day begins at 5:00 am. Since 2014, when I launched Nails & Brows, I’ve adopted the habit of being an early bird. I start my day with a soothing cup of hot water, followed by a brief 5-minute meditation to set my intentions for the day ahead. I then check my phone and diary to tackle any outstanding tasks, typically on my Macbook. At 9:30 am, my personal assistant checks in with me to discuss the day’s plans and any last-minute errands. I then head into the boutique at 11:00 am, where I have a catch-up meeting with our senior managers. This is followed by retuning calls, conducting interviews, and reviewing our productivity reports. Lunchtime arrives at 1:00 pm, and at 2:00 pm, I spend some time on the shop floor to engage with customers, carry out training sessions, or hold meetings with our brand partners. It’s difficult to provide a summary of my workdays, as no two days are alike. What I can say is that my workdays are consistently busy and demanding. My day usually wraps up around 6:30 pm, at which point I take an Uber ride home to unwind and recharge for the next day.
What has been the highlight of your career so far, and why?
Opening Nails & Brows. After many years of training and working in some of London’s most prestigious beauty salons, to take the plunge and create my own salon for clients to come and enjoy an indulgent beauty treatment, really was a career highlight. I was also nominated by one of my clients to attend a reception hosted by King Charles at Buckingham Palace in recognition of my contributions to the economy and the community we serve which really was a special milestone.
What does empowerment mean to you?
I recognise that my position comes with great responsibilities to mentor, train and inspire others to be, and feel confident in their abilities, bringing forth their very best in every aspect of their lives.
How important is it to have a mentor as a new business owner?
I have befitted greatly from having a mentor and I would highly recommend this to anyone for their personal and professional lives.
There are many instances where black female entrepreneurs have been overlooked for opportunities. Have you ever experienced this? And if so, how did you move forward?
Being my own boss comes with great privileges and responsibilities which means I get sit at the table and take charge of my career and enable others to progress without limitation of discrimination. I have observed at times that my achievements have been overlooked by some media professionals, but I remain focused on my team and customers as this gives me great satisfaction.
Black-owned and woman-owned businesses have seen a boost in representation in recent years. Are there any you’d like to highlight?
Yes! I am encouraged to see the spotlight on so many incredible black-female entrepreneurs, especially in beauty. I have witnessed Ateh Jewel, Mimi Kone, of Mimi et Mina, and Ade Hassan of Nubian Skin achieve incredible things. I am so inspired by their journey.
Fair treatment and equal compensation are two issues driving the conversation about diversity in the beauty sector. What are you doing within your businesses to drive change?
We have an all-female team of 22 which represents 16 flags. I feel incredibly lucky to have such a diverse team that contributes to each other with genuine care and passion. Each team member has been carefully chosen based on skills, work ethic and knowledge. We are very passionate about training and sharing knowledge to educate and inspire, ensuring that everyone knows their worth.
What advice would you give to your 30-year-old self?
Enjoy writing your chapters and work smarter, not harder.
With the New Year upon us, what are your goals for 2024?
My New Year goals are to continue growing our offering at Nails & Brows, build our new clean beauty concept store Beauty Edit Mayfair, and to create a healthier work-life balance for myself.
What do you do daily to nourish your mental and emotional wellbeing?
I try to mediate and exercise; this really helps my physical and emotional welling.
Quick-fire round
Gloss or matte?
Matte
Threading or waxing?
Threading
Heels or flats?
Heels
Make-up or no make-up?
Makeup
Netflix or Prime?
Netflix
DIY treatment or salon?
Salon treatments = “me time”
Follow Sherrille Riley on Instagram @sherrilleriley
