Alcorn alumna Jasmine Wheatley opens boutique in Vicksburg
Vicksburg native Jasmine Wheatley has turned her passion for beauty and fashion into a burgeoning business.
Wheatley, who earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Alcorn State University in 2009, is the owner of Lipstick and Labels Makeup Studio and Boutique located on 801 Clay Street Suite 2 in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Her company offers an array of services and items such as personal shopping, image consulting, makeup classes, mink eyelash extensions, luxury brand lipstick, custom design options and boutique clothing.
Wheatley is no stranger to entrepreneurship. Her late father, Richard Wheatley, founded The Wheatley School of Kung Fu in McComb, Mississippi. Her mother, Vera Wheatley, owns V&J’s Tax Service in Vicksburg. She credits her parents for her success as a businesswoman.
“My parents are the reason why I’ve always had a desire to own a business,” said Wheatley. “Without their influence and encouragement, I wouldn’t have the courage to pursue my goals.”
Wheatley’s position gives her the opportunity to explore different types of styles without giving up creative control.
“To own a studio and boutique gives me complete creative freedom. I am able to set trends and influence style without limits. People are able to see my brand and I’m loving it!”
Wheatley could have taken her bright ideas to a bigger city, but she decided to bring something special to her hometown.
“When deciding on a target market, Vicksburg and Alcorn were at the forefront. When people are surprised to see that I stayed home, I always tell them that there is work to be done in my community. I wanted to start a local business where women of all ethnicities and ages could come and find specialty items and much more.”
Being a fashion trendsetter is only part of Wheatley’s goal for her boutique. Because of her faith and her desire to uplift women, she feels obligated to use her talents as a way to serve her community.
“With the pressure from society for women to look a certain way, this tends to diminish self confidence and self worth. I have a social responsibility to use my talents and serve. I want to empower women. My mission is to help women to unleash their confidence, find their style and be courageous in their endeavors.”
For more information on Lipstick and Labels Makeup Studio and Boutique, contact Wheatley at (601) 218-5848 or by email at [email protected].
