Today, we’d like to introduce you to Mona Rhodes.
Mona, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My name is Malasha Rhodes, but everyone calls me Mona. At 36 years old, I proudly hail from Rochester, NY. My journey is a blend of numbers and beauty, as I am an accountant and an esthetician.
Back in 2013, after the birth of my daughter, my life took an unexpected turn. She was diagnosed with sickle cell disease, and I found myself navigating the challenges of being a single mother. It was then I realized the necessity of using my degrees and skills to build a stable future for us. With determination and a vision, I established my accounting firm, Community Associates.
Balancing the demands of my profession and the needs of my daughter has been challenging yet rewarding. The flexibility of running my own business has allowed me to be there for her, ensuring she receives the care and support she needs. Through it all, I’ve learned the true meaning of resilience and the importance of forging my path.
In 2018, I married my wonderful wife, an executive chef. Her support has brought balance to our lives and has given me room to grow as a beauty artist. Before the pandemic, I opened my beauty bar, Rhodes2Beauti, which unfortunately had to shut down due to COVID-19. However, this setback led to a new chapter in my life.
In 2020, we moved to Dallas, where my life truly blossomed. I met so many incredible people and re-established Rhodes2Beauti, which has changed my life and helped me change others. I do makeup and lashes, and I’m in love with my work. My goal is to become a celebrity beauty artist specializing in bridal makeup and soon open a storefront near downtown Dallas. Dallas is amazing and has brought nothing but wonderful opportunities to our lives.
Today, my dual careers reflect my passion for both precision and creativity. As an accountant, I help clients navigate their financial landscapes with confidence. As an esthetician, I provide services that enhance my clients’ well-being and self-esteem. Each day, I strive to inspire others, showing that with determination and love, we can overcome any obstacle.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey has not been without its challenges.
Before the pandemic, I opened my beauty bar, Rhodes2Beauti, but COVID-19 forced us to shut down, bringing financial and emotional strain. This was a significant setback, and shortly after, in 2021, after re-opening Rhodes2Beauti, my wife and I experienced a heartbreaking miscarriage with our IVF baby. The grief and mental health challenges that followed were overwhelming, and there were moments when it felt like the weight of it all might take over.
However, with the support of my wife and a deep-seated determination, I kept going. I knew I had to persevere, not just for myself but also for my daughter and everyone who believed in me. Moving to Dallas in 2020 was a turning point, offering new opportunities and a chance to rebuild. I re-established Rhodes2Beauti, which has since become a source of joy and a way to positively impact others.
Despite the hardships, I have continued to push forward, striving to inspire others along the way. I want to encourage anyone with a dream to keep going, no matter what life throws at you. Challenges and setbacks are a part of the journey, but with determination and love, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve our dreams.
Thanks. What else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At Rhodes2Beauti, I specialize in makeup and lash artistry. My services range from everyday makeup to elaborate bridal looks, ensuring each client feels beautiful and confident. I also provide specialized lash services, including extensions and lifts, to enhance my client’s natural beauty.
I am known for my meticulous attention to detail and my ability to create stunning, personalized looks for every occasion. My bridal makeup is particularly celebrated for its ability to enhance natural beauty while making each bride feel truly special on her big day. Clients appreciate my precision and the tailored approach I bring to each session.
What I am most proud of is the transformation I see in my clients. It’s not just about their appearance—it’s about their confidence and self-esteem. Seeing a client light up when they see their reflection is the most rewarding part of my job. Helping people feel beautiful and confident is my greatest achievement.
What sets me apart from others is my dual expertise as an accountant and an esthetician. This unique combination allows me to bring a professional and organized approach to my beauty business. My background in accounting helps me manage the business side efficiently, while my passion for esthetics ensures that my clients receive the highest-quality services.
Additionally, my personal journey and resilience in overcoming challenges have given me a deep understanding and empathy, which I bring to every client interaction.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
**Community Associates:** In the next 5-10 years, I see Community Associates expanding significantly. My goal is to open multiple office locations across Texas, providing top-tier accounting services to a broader client base. I aim to integrate the latest technology and trends in the accounting industry, offering innovative solutions such as virtual consultations and automated financial planning tools. I also plan to build a strong team of skilled accountants who share my commitment to personalized client service and financial empowerment.
**Rhodes2Beauti:** For Rhodes2Beauti, I envision a grand transformation. My primary goal is to open a flagship storefront near downtown Dallas, creating a luxurious and welcoming space for clients. This flagship location will serve as a hub for trendsetting in the beauty industry, featuring state-of-the-art equipment and offering exclusive services. I plan to host workshops, beauty classes, and special events to engage with the community and establish Rhodes2Beauti as a leading name in beauty and wellness.
**Trendsetting and Innovations:** I aspire to be at the forefront of beauty trends, continuously evolving my services to meet the demands of the industry. This includes incorporating sustainable and eco-friendly products, exploring new techniques in makeup and lash artistry, and staying ahead of beauty trends. I also plan to leverage social media and digital platforms to reach a wider audience, sharing my expertise and inspiring others in the beauty community.
**Big Shifts and Changes:** Looking ahead, I see significant shifts in how I operate both businesses. For Community Associates, this means embracing digital transformation fully, offering more virtual services, and utilizing advanced analytics to provide deeper insights for clients.
For Rhodes2Beauti, I envision expanding into product development and creating my own line of beauty products tailored to the needs of my clients. Additionally, I plan to collaborate with other industry leaders and celebrities, further establishing Rhodes2Beauti as a trendsetter in the beauty world.
**Long-Term Goals:** Ultimately, my long-term goal is to become a recognized name in both the accounting and beauty industries. I want to create a legacy of excellence, innovation, and empowerment, inspiring others to pursue their dreams despite the challenges they may face. Whether through financial guidance or beauty transformations, I aim to make a lasting impact on the lives of my clients and the community.
Pricing:
- **Community Associates: – Individual Tax Preparation:** $200 – $500 – **Small Business Tax Preparation:** $500 – $1,500 – **Bookkeeping Services:** Starting at $300/month – **Financial Planning Consultations:** $150/hour – **Payroll Services:** $100 – $500/month, depending on the number of employees
- Everyday Makeup: $75 – Special Occasion Makeup: $100 – Bridal Makeup: $200 (includes a trial session) – **Lash Services:** – Classic Lash Extensions: $150 – Volume Lash Extensions: $200 – Lash Lift and Tint: $100 – **Packages:** – Bridal Party Package: Starting at $600 (includes makeup for the bride and up to three bridesmaids) – Monthly Beauty Subscription: $250/month (includes one makeup session and one lash service)
- Upcoming Services and Products:** – **Beauty Workshops:** $50 – $150 per session – **Exclusive Beauty Products Line:** Pricing to be announced
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @Rhodes2beauti and @communityassociates_
- Facebook: @Rhodes2beauti and @Communityassociates
Image Credits
John Lee
