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

Hi Frankesha, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Honestly, I got tired of seeing our community have to deal with bad service, lack of knowledge, or stores that didn’t feel like they were for us. I started BPolished Beauty Supply because I wanted to create a space that felt like home—where you could walk in, feel seen, get what you need, and not be overcharged or overlooked. I knew people like me wanted to support Black-owned businesses, shop local, and still get the good products.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Whew—where do I start? My career has been anything but traditional. I’m a Senior HRIS Manager by day, a full-time entrepreneur every other hour of the day, and somehow still manage to be a fur mom, a mentor, and a friend. I got here through a lot of prayer, late nights, and figuring it out as I go.

What sets me apart? I know how to lead with strategy and soul. I run a beauty supply store, BPolished Beauty Supply, that’s not just about selling products—it’s about building community. We serve everybody, from the DIY naturalista to the girl heading to brunch in a fresh install. We’ve created a space where people feel welcome, informed, and like they’re spending their dollars with intention. That matters to me.

It definitely wasn’t easy. I started with limited knowledge of retail and zero funding, but I made it work. I’ve dealt with supplier issues, burnout, and every obstacle you can imagine—but I never gave up. I asked for help, I learned the systems, I made mistakes and got better.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned? Don’t wait to be ready. Start where you are. The version of me who opened her first store didn’t have it all together—but she believed in the vision. And now we’ve served thousands of customers, mentored future store owners, and grown a brand people know and feel when they walk in.

What do I want the world to know? I’m building something real. Something rooted in purpose and people. BPolished isn’t just a beauty store—it’s a reminder that we deserve excellence, care, and community in every part of our lives.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Kitchen & Koctails
BPolished Beauty Supply
Grand Lux

Website: https://www.bpolishedbeautysupply.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bpolishedbeautysupply/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BPolishedBeautySupply/

Image Credits
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