In a society and culture that seems to embrace making money and doing business in a non-traditional type of way, more and more Millennials are striking out on their own in becoming young entrepreneurs.
Young entrepreneurs or YE’s, as they are referred to in the industry are aged 17-30, and helm a wide range of start-up companies in the entertainment, non-profit, digital content, beauty and tech.
With the current job economy slowing recovering, and most employers being very selective in hiring, most Millenials are flipping the proverbial script and becoming their own bosses in becoming YE’s instead.
According to an article from the UK-based business website, Startups.com titled “Generation enterprise: The rise of young entrepreneurs”, most Millennials aged 16-24 are more than likely to strike out on their own as opposed to working for someone else;
“A C&G survey of 16-24 year olds has found that 49% have a ‘strong desire’ to set up their own business and with the main reason being that they would rather not bow down to the demands of a boss.
Also, about one in ten want to get into business in the next year with about 35% saying they want to start within the next five years.
Young people describe themselves as ambitious, non-conformist and want to be millionaires. Seventy per cent say that they ‘want to be in control of their lives’ and this means having no other boss than themselves.
Also young people are much more likely to be inspired by the likes of Jamie Oliver and Anita Roddick of this world than they are by P Diddy or Simon Cowell. Other high-profile millionaires such as Richard Branson and Easyjet’s Stelios Hadji Ioannou are also greatly admired by the coming generation.
However, arguably more importantly, is the fact that nearly half of young people know someone under the age of 30 who has already gone it alone. Providing them with a great opportunity to gleam valuable tips and insights about business from someone in their immediate circle.”
Naturally, for YE’s—let along your female entrepreneurs, role models such as “Keeping Up With The Kardashians” reality star and Instamodel Kylie Jenner are looked up to as well. Jenner, who launched her own line of beauty and cosmetics line, Kylie Cosmetics in 2016 to much acclaim and success.
At just 19, the half-sister of Kim Kardashian and younger sister of model Kendall Jenner is worth an estimated $20 million, per CelebrityNetworth.com.
Thanks to her success in modeling, beauty and blogging, Jenner has inspired a new generation of women to get into the game and be their own boss. Could lifestyle model and Glaminizers CEO and Founder, Stephanie Tear be the next up-and-coming YE success story?
Tear, a diminutive 5’4 20-year-old from the greater Washington D.C. suburb of Gaithersburg, has modeled for brands such as Murderous Clothing, Planet Hero, Retro City Sunglasses and The Rich Era, creating the makeup and beauty brand Glaminizers that offers a range of products such as brush cleaners, acrylic organizers, glitter eye shadows, eye shadow palettes and face oils.
In addition to modeling and running Glamiziners, the multi-talented Tear recent released her first music single, “Barbie” on SoundCloud.
Multi-talented, versatile and driven, Tear is set become a potential force in the areas of beauty, music and modeling. Below is my Q and A with Stephanie as we discuss being the next young female entrepreneur to watch, Glaminizers, her vision and why she thinks that she is going to be better than Kylie.
Name: Stephanie Tear
Age: 20
Height: 5’4
Birthplace: Gaithersburg, Maryland
Measurements: 34-24-35
Social Media Links: Instagram: @stephanietear | SnapChat: StephanieeTear | YouTube: StephanieTear | Facebook: Stephanie Tear Page Twitter: @Stephanie_Tear
Robert D. Cobb: What king of model do you consider yourself?
Stephanie Tear:“I consider myself to be lifestyle model. I can model a lot of different looks. However, I feel like the reason people relate to me is because I have a very real persona that comes through in my photos. Whether I am glammed up and in a sexy outfit, or someone is snapping photos of me on the couch. I can be both and I like girls to know they too can be both, beautifully.”
Robert D. Cobb: What brands have you modeled for? Which do you enjoy modeling for the most?
Stephanie Tear:“I have modeled for Murderous Clothing, South Moon Under, Planet Hero, Lady Boss Lashes, Retro City Sunglasses, Bye Bye Bella, Teez, Krave Clothing, Shony Clothing, The Rich Era, and more. I enjoy modeling for sunglass companies the most! I feel like every pair gives you a different look and you can switch up personas with them!”
Robert D. Cobb: What has been your favorite place to shoot?
Stephanie Tear:“My favorite place to shoot is most definitely in NYC. I feel like that is the place I’m meant to be… Huge buildings, constant movement, bright lights, and endless people! I love shooting in that atmosphere it gives me the best energy.”
Robert D. Cobb: What is the most exciting aspect of modeling?
Stephanie Tear: “The most exciting aspect of being a model, for me, is connecting with new people and being able to collaboration on an idea to bring forth a vision. I think the most beautiful part of being a creative person is coming together with others and producing the visuals in your head!”
Robert D. Cobb: For those who don’t know, describe Glaminizers?
Stephanie Tear: “Glaminizers is my cosmetic brand. It began with acrylic makeup storage that was studded with Swarovski crystals. The term Glam and Organizers merged to create Glaminizers. I know have tons of glitter, pressed glitter shadows, brush cleaner, lip scrub, some clothing items, and more!
I make my products without chemicals, parabens, and dyes because I believe cosmetics should be as pure as possible to do for our skin what they need to do! I use all organic and natural products. All my products are currently vegan and in the future, the only ingredient I plan on having that isn’t vegan is honey. Which, when harvested organically no harm comes to the bees!”
Robert D. Cobb: Since we’re in the age of Kylie & teen entrepreneurs, how does it feel to be running your own company at the age of 20?
Stephanie Tear:“I honestly always knew I would have a business very young. Solely because I have endless ideas and I am such a visual person that I have to create what I see in my head! It feels amazing to know I did this on my own and that it can only become bigger and better. I love creating new products and enjoy the entire process.
Being young and a business owner can sometimes cause people to doubt you or not take you seriously. I just think it’s ironic how often young people are doubted. There’s nothing better than a young mind. We have our entire life ahead of us.”
Robert D. Cobb: Do you see yourself as the next Kylie Jenner?
Stephanie Tear:“In response to that, I feel that I will be bigger than Kylie Jenner, as well as more connected with my audience. Definitely more elaborate in my creations.”
Robert D. Cobb: Where do you see yourself and your company in 3-5 years?
Stephanie Tear: “I see myself living in LA, doing movies, on the cover of magazines, and working with amazing designers. I also see myself owning more brands or even expanding mine into many others. I know I will change the game, I know I’m meant to. So, it’s never and “if”, its “when” it happens!
I see Glaminizers being a full range cosmetic line with amazing ingredients as always. I see it starting a trend. A trend of extravagant, fun makeup, that doesn’t need chemicals to work well. I can’t wait to show the world everything I know I can do, unlike things that have been done before.”
Robert D. Cobb: What is it about your brand that you feel stands out from the others?
Stephanie Tear:“I think my brand stands out from others mostly because the vibe is so different. Every product has extremely fun, girly packaging. I give my all into everything I do. Every product I create has such an extreme amount of effort and care put into it. I am one of the most critical consumers so I make sure everything I create is so professionally done, clean, well-constructed, well executed, and beautifully made.
I am a makeup lover, junkie, and hoarder… So it’s only right for me to know exactly what I love about some products and what I don’t about others. I have such an extensive knowledge on makeup which I feel is so tremendously important! I created my brand with the consensus of exactly what I wish I could have, buy, find! ”
Describe your vision:
Stephanie Tear:“My vision is to create a beautiful brand that provides people with organic products that are actually good for their skin! I want to show people that there is a way to make products naturally and have them work just as well, if not much better; especially in the long run.”
Robert D. Cobb: What advice would you give to others trying to start their own brand and be their own boss?
Stephanie Tear: “I would advise them to go with whatever idea or vision they have even if, at that time, it seems out of reach. Everything seems impossible to do until you work hard enough to actually have it. I would want them to know no matter what, if you believe in your brand, the possibilities are endless. Also, to never give up and to try even when things don’t go well, because the best things happen after hardships.”
Robert D. Cobb: Within the industry, Who is your inspiration?
Stephanie Tear: “I draw inspiration from those that I find creative rather than “the best at what they do” I am so inspired by Teyana Taylor for her drive, style, and creative mind. She embraces her body and always does unrealistic or practical shoots, which I love!
I am so inspired by Sasha Samsonova’s photography, it speaks to my soul just because of how creative every photo is. I also am so inspired by the drive and determination that Zendaya has.”
Robert D. Cobb: What is your secret to staying in shape?
Stephanie Tear:“My secret to staying in shape doesn’t involve much exercise. Surprisingly! I maintain my toned, athletic shape simply through my diet! I am not one to enjoy the gym, I would rather work out at home. I became vegan about 10 months ago and it was easily the BEST decision I have made for my health!
You are consuming all the right fruits and veggies for a lean, fit tummy, toned legs, and slim build overall! I find that I am way less tired, happier, my mind is more efficient, and I don’t really need to work out much to maintain my tone, which is SO nice! When I do workout, I do squats, crunches, planks and stair climbers!”
Robert D. Cobb: Outside of modeling, what are your hobbies?
Stephanie Tear:“I made most of my hobbies into jobs. I love so many different things and enjoy anything within the lines of creativity. I am also a makeup artist and have my own makeup brand. That is for sure a passion of mine which is why I created a business from it. I paint people’s faces like an artist would a canvas.
That includes SFX looks and any makeup enthusiast looks, that aren’t so every-day. I also love to write, create music, and dance!”
Robert D. Cobb: With Spring here and summer right around the corner, what tips do you have for looking great?
Stephanie Tear: “I think the most important tip is to drink water!
Water is what makes you glow & that is definitely what everyone wants during the warm months! Eat a lot of fruits, stay hydrated, & stay with the sun screen because you want that beautiful skin forever, not just while you’re young!”
Robert D. Cobb: What beauty and style/swimwear trends do you recommend for looking hot, confident, and sexy?
Stephanie Tear: “A glowy, natural makeup look is always in for the summer! I love a lightweight, dewy foundation, with brows, lip gloss, and some lashes; don’t forget the highlighter!
As far as swimwear, high-waisted bathing suits are my FAVE! They give you such a vintage, sexy look while also covering up more! Even with clothing for the spring/summer, I love a good pair of high-waisted shorts! They look so cute with cropped tops and boots!”
Sports: Who are your favorite teams?
Stephanie Tear:“I am not into sports much, but I jump on the bandwagon for what my family loves. Nationals and Redskins all day! We also have endless UMB (University of Maryland-Baltimore) Terrapins shirts and sweatshirts because that’s how much we love them!”
Robert D. Cobb: What are your favorite cities to travel to?
Stephanie Tear:“I am in love with Manhattan, Brooklyn, Atlanta, Georgia, and Miami FL!”
Robert D. Cobb: What advice would you give to women aspiring to get into modeling?
Stephanie Tear:“I would tell anyone trying to become a model, you already are. Being a model doesn’t mean getting a job that signifies “I’ve made it” Being a model means modeling strength, beauty, and grace to anyone observing your photos. It means to convey a message.
It means inspiring other people simply through your photo. And I feel that if you want to model you must know people always try to tell you you aren’t good enough. The thing about it is you are only as good as YOU believe you are and if you let other people control that, you’ll never be able to reach your goals.”
Special thanks to Ms. Stephanie Tear for her time and assistance during the Q and A interview process. All images are used with permission and are the rightful property of their owners.