Iwalogboneda Abolore Omotayo is the founder and lead makeup artist at Darabeauties, a beauty brand dedicated to enhancing confidence through flawless, professional makeup artistry. Renowned for her elegant and timeless looks, she combines creativity with a strong commitment to quality and client satisfaction.
Beyond her work as an artist, Iwalogboneda Abolore Omotayo is passionate about empowering others. Through the Darabeauties Free Makeup Training, she provides aspiring makeup artists with hands-on education and mentorship, helping them builds skills, confidence, and sustainable careers in the beauty industry.
In this exclusive interview, Iwalogboneda Abolore Omotayo speaks about her craft, inspiration and what the future holds for Dara Beauties World
What’s the first thing you do in the morning to get ready for a productive day?
The first thing I do every morning is pray. it helps me start my day with gratitude and a clear mind. Then I drink some water to refresh my body, freshen up, get dressed, and hit the road ready to take on the day! I love starting my mornings feeling centered and motivated it really sets the tone for everything that follows.
Who’s your biggest beauty inspiration, and how do they influence your work?
Honestly, so many people inspire me! I don’t have just one beauty inspiration because I admire anyone who’s truly dedicated to his or her craft. If you’re passionate, creative, and putting in the work to be great at what you do you’ve already got my support. I love seeing people shine in their own lane; it always motivates me to keep growing and evolving too.
Take us back to the beginning of Dara Beauties World. What sparked the idea, and how has it evolved over time?
I’ve always loved anything artistic, and beauty has always felt like a form of art to me. The funny thing is, even before I became a professional, whenever I am in a conversation and someone asked what I do, I’d confidently say, ‘I’m a makeup artist.’ It just felt right, like it was already a part of who I am. I still remember doing my elder sister’s wedding makeup years ago, before I even went for professional training, and it turned out so beautifully. That experience really lit a spark in me. Over time, that passion grew into what is now Dara Beauties a space where I get to share my love for beauty, creativity, and confidence with others.
What’s your go-to product in the Dara Beauties World collection, and why do you love it?
My go-to products are definitely my skin prep essentials. I always say that every glow and flawless makeup look starts with great skin prep. It makes all the difference! When the skin is well prepped, everything else, from foundation to finish just comes together effortlessly. Good skin prep is the secret behind that healthy, radiant look.
What’s one thing you wish you could tell your pre-entrepreneur self about the beauty industry?
If I could talk to my pre-entrepreneur self, I’d tell her to be patient and trust the journey. The beauty industry can be tough, but it’s also incredibly rewarding if you stay true to yourself. Every challenge you face is preparing you for something greater. I’d also remind her that growth takes time — don’t rush the process, just keep learning, evolving, and believing in your vision.
How do you prioritize self-care, and what beauty rituals do you swear by?
Self-care is something I try to prioritize, no matter how busy things get. For me, it’s not just about beauty — it’s about feeling balanced and taking time to recharge. My beauty rituals always start with good skincare; I love cleansing, moisturizing, and just giving my skin the attention it deserves. I also take moments to breathe, pray, and reflect — that’s self-care for my mind and spirit. When I take care of myself from the inside out, I feel more confident, creative, and ready to take on anything.
What’s the most meaningful feedback you’ve received from a customer, and how did it impact your business?
One of the most meaningful messages I’ve received was from a client who told me that after I did her makeup, she saw herself in a completely new light. She said she finally felt beautiful and confident in her own skin — that moment really touched me. It reminded me that what I do isn’t just about makeup; it’s about helping people see the beauty that’s already within them. Feedback like that keeps me inspired and reminds me why I started Dara Beauties World in the first place.
What’s your one beauty-related guilty pleasure that you wouldn’t admit to on social media?
Okay, confession time, my biggest beauty-related guilty pleasure is asking my students over and over again if the makeup I just did in class looks great.
Like… “Are you sure it’s giving? Be honest, it’s giving, right?”
I just can’t help it — I love that little moment when they all nod and go, “Yes ma’am, it’s flawless!” It’s my daily dose of validation and laughter rolled into one.
What’s the top goal you’re working towards for Dara Beauties World in the next year?
My top goal for Dara Beauties in the next year is two fold: I want to have the Dara Beauties beauty line so people can enjoy our products not just through the services we provide, but by being able to get their hands on them directly. At the same time, I’m passionate about inspiring others through the Dara Beauties Free Makeup Training program. I truly believe in seeing others win and helping people discover their potential in the beauty industry — it’s about growth not just for my brand, but for the community as a whole.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to aspiring beauty entrepreneurs just starting out?
My biggest advice to aspiring beauty entrepreneurs is to truly believe in themselves. Don’t rush your journey trust your process and your growth, because everything unfolds in its own time. And most importantly, invest in yourself. Whether it’s learning, improving your craft, or nurturing your mindset, the best investment you can ever make is in you. That confidence and self-belief will always reflect in your brand.
