About Us
Welcome! I am going to take you behind the scenes and tell you how and why I started Beauty by Mishaal, LLC. Here's my story.
As a first generation Pakistani-American woman, I found it difficult to find hobbies that were appropriate for both of my cultures. I was inspired by my mom’s talent of sewing Pakistani dresses, so I shadowed her and started sewing my own American and Pakistani dresses by the time I was in high school. I even took fashion courses for 3 years and led fashion shows for diversity events. I developed an appreciation for not only the Pakistani values, but the beautiful clothing and accessories that were associated with the culture.
Living in Connecticut through my high school and college years was tough. Although it is a beautiful place to live, there weren't many shopping options for South Asian women. There were limited resources to order dresses or accessories, so most women would drive up to New York to find something, which was 2 hours away. It was especially difficult when there were cultural weddings or Holidays to celebrate. Anytime I attended a chand raat mela (cultural event the day before the Eid holiday), I always gravitated towards the vendors with the beautiful jewelry. The colors, designs and even the material would just take my breath away.
A couple years later, COVID-19 happened. The timing was pretty crazy for me because I ended up pushing up my wedding. Everything was perfect, but I do wish there were local jewelry vendors. Luckily, I ordered a jewelry set from Pakistan that arrived on time, but the vendor shipped a different set than the one I ordered. I stayed positive and rocked the set on my big day. When I think back to that day, I remember that feeling of helplessness, and not being able to get the things I need, especially as a bride. I did not want anyone else I know in my community to struggle with the same problem. I finally trusted the entrepreneur in my heart, and decided to open my online Pakistani jewelry and accessory shop, Beauty by Mishaal.
It took a great deal of vulnerability to kick-off my small business, but making people happy is an intrinsic motivator for me that keeps me going.
Thank you for reading our story!