We had the good fortune of connecting with Cydney Hanks and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cydney, why did you pursue a creative career?
I’ve been a creative ever since I can remember. I remember doodling designs in my diary at age six and falling in love with writing at age ten. The thrill of being able to draft something up and put my own spin and style on it was what enticed me most. To be able to bring something from my mind to the world in a physical form was more satisfying than anything I could ever do.

That’s why I had to start my business. I knew that even if I never sold a thing, I’d be completely fulfilled knowing that I brought a vision of mine to life.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Vixxen, The Brand is more than just an ordinary online boutique. Behind the social media pages and website is a true visionary. I have such a huge vision for my brand and so many ways that I want to bring out my collections. Whether that’s through a punk rock type of vibe or a lighthearted, butterfly theme, I make sure to give it my all every time!

It’s not easy at all, but it’s worth the hard work and effort in the end. The overwhelming feeling of pride and satisfaction that I get after a long day of preparing and shooting a campaign is unlike any other feeling in the world. I feel better promoting my most recent collection than I do on my birthday!

It’s what makes it so easy to overcome whatever challenges come my way. I LOVE what I do, so no challenge is ever too difficult. I never take no for an answer. I simply research and persevere until I achieve!

Lessons I’ve learned along the way include preserving, prioritizing myself, and letting go of procrastination. What I want the world to know about myself and my brand is that it’s been a long journey. Nothing about it has been easy, but I’ve never been able to give up. I’ve found what I love to do and my heart won’t let me quit. That’s what passion is, and I hope that everyone find their passion, whatever it may be.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my bestie was in town for the weekend, I’d have a ton of things lined up to show her a good time! We’d first go to brunch at Outside Houston and catch a good vibe with great food and music! Next, we’d go ride electric bikes downtown before stopping at Pappadeaux to sip a daiquiri and snack on the best fondue in the world! After, we’d go back to my place and relax. Maybe take a shower and binge watch a few movies or the new season of Love Is Blind. Then, at night, we’d go out for a night on the town! We’d spend the night dancing, laughing and taking pics!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are a few people that I’d like to shout-out! People who’ve inspired, supported and pushed me to be great. The first person is my mom. She was my initial investor. I asked her for a sum of money close to $300 to sell eyelashes. I didn’t encounter any resistance. In fact, I was able to get to work the exact same day and start working on building my brand!

Another person is Madeby AriJ. I initially learned about her from a music group that she was apart of a few years back. I later learned that she had a successful lip gloss business and a YouTube channel where she gave out many tips on growing your business! I remember watching her videos endlessly and feeling so inspired by her words and work ethic.

My last person is Jaelyn Dae. We’re from around the same area in Houston, Texas and I’ve kind of watched her journey to blossoming into an influencer. She has her own business as well as a YouTube channel. For me, it’s inspiring to see that a girl like me CAN make it happen!

Website: Vixxenthebrand.com

Instagram: Instagram.com/Vixxenthebrand

Twitter: Twitter.com/Vixxenthebrand

Facebook: Facebook.com/vixxenthebrand

Youtube: YouTube.com/cydneycymone

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.