From Self-doubt to Confidence: How ShaRanda Built SHINE & Office HouRs

"My work is about creating sacred space! Space for reflection, for confidence, for healing, for clarity. SHINE by ShaRanda was born from my love of beauty, but it's always been about more than makeup. It's about visibility, belonging, and joy."

A Mission Close to ShaRanda's Heart:

When ShaRanda Stephens reflected on the women around her in Durham, NC, she saw brilliant souls who gave so much to others but rarely took time for themselves. Having personally experienced the transformative power of beauty and confidence, ShaRanda recognized her responsibility to create spaces where women could reconnect with their inner glow and reclaim their power.

What is SHINE by ShaRanda and Office HouRs Consulting:

Located in Durham, NC, SHINE by ShaRanda has been transforming lives since 2010, while Office HouRs Consulting launched in 2024. ShaRanda's dual approach combines professional makeup artistry and curated beauty experiences with human-centered HR consultancy services. Her mission spans two powerful realms: helping women reconnect with their inner glow through SHINE, and helping entrepreneurs and teams build intentional culture through Office HouRs. Both businesses are rooted in the same foundation, creating sacred space for reflection, confidence, healing, and clarity.

Challenges that led to growth:

Building two purpose-driven businesses presented challenges that tested ShaRanda's resilience and vision. She navigated self-doubt, burnout, and the importance of seeking support during times when she felt overwhelmed and under-resourced. By returning to her values, vision, and community, ShaRanda stayed grounded in her belief that both ventures are united by a foundation of care.

echo's Support of ShaRanda's Journey:

When asked about echo's support, ShaRanda speaks with genuine gratitude about her experience with the partnership. echo provided more than just space; they offered belonging and collaboration, allowing ShaRanda the freedom to fully shape the kind of experience she believes women leaders need.

“Partnering with the echo community has been a full-circle moment. Not only have I felt seen and valued as a leader and creative, but I've also been given the freedom to fully shape the kind of experience I believe women leaders need. Anjanette has been such a joy to work with. echo doesn't just provide space, they provide belonging and collaboration!"

The Joy of Perseverance:

Through her unwavering commitment and echo's supportive community, ShaRanda has transformed her vision into thriving realities. Both SHINE by ShaRanda and Office HouRs are now actively serving clients, creating profound transformation experiences. ShaRanda's most fulfilling moments come when her dreams materialize into reality, watching a teen find the perfect dress and get her makeup done for the first time at a prom pop-up, or seeing a woman light up in her chair after years of not feeling seen. Whether working with students through partnerships like StudentU or curating experiences for professionals and founders, she witnesses daily how beauty and confidence are truly transformational.

ShaRanda's Advice to Fellow Entrepreneurs:

Drawing from her experience building both SHINE by ShaRanda and Office HouRs Consulting, ShaRanda offers three essential pieces of advice:

1. Do it your way, and don't shrink to fit someone else's model. There's no one-size-fits-all approach to impact or success. Make it yours.

2. Take rest seriously. A tired leader is a disconnected one. Protect your peace the same way you protect your profits.

3. Let your story and your SHINE lead the way. Confidence isn't just a feeling, it's a practice. When you show up as your full self, you give others permission to do the same.

It’s Your Turn to Shine:

ShaRanda's story with SHINE by ShaRanda and Office HouRs Consulting demonstrates that with vision, authenticity, and the right support system, entrepreneurs can build multiple businesses that serve their community while staying true to their core mission of care. If you need help with your business like ShaRanda, feel free to check out our programs, services, or contact us. echo is here to guide you step by step, just as we did for ShaRanda, helping transform your vision into a successful business.

Connect with ShaRanda:

📱 Socials: @shinebysharanda | @officehoursconsulting

🌐 Websites: SHINE by ShaRanda | Office HouRs Consulting

Author’s Note: 

Ihsan Mohammed is a passionate storyteller and a valued member of echo's marketing team. Currently a senior at Meredith College, she is majoring in interior design with a minor in marketing. Ihsan's professional writing journey began in her senior year of high school when she participated in echo’s teen program, Shiboka 1st Edition. This experience led her to write the articles "They Stole Our Jobs" and "Success in Business," as well as the poem "When the Sun Rises." When she's not designing or working, Ihsan enjoys spending time with her family, sculpting, and exploring nature.