Why Are We Still Gatekeeping in the Beauty Industry?

Let’s normalise standing together.

We’re part of a passionate, talented, and ever-growing community of artists — yet so often, when someone reaches out for advice, support, or guidance, the answer is:
“Check what others are charging.”
“Do your own research.”
“It depends on your area.”

But let's be honest: that’s not mentorship. That’s gatekeeping.

Why are we so afraid to help one another? Are we worried that by sharing rates, business tips, or hard-earned experience, we’ll somehow lose something in the process?

If you feel that supporting a fellow artist might cost you clients, then — with respect — you're building your brand on shaky ground. Clients don’t choose you just because of price. They choose you. Your energy, your artistry, your professionalism, your presence on their special day.

Let’s do the math:
There are over 32.13 million women in South Africa.
Weddings, matric farewells, maternity shoots, birthdays, graduations, branding sessions, corporate functions… even events we haven’t thought of yet — there is more than enough work to go around.

We constantly say there should be a guild or association to regulate and protect artists, to set industry standards. But who will run that guild if no one is willing to mentor, to guide, or to care?

Also — let’s stop pretending small towns don’t pay. My clients with some of the highest budgets have come from quiet towns. People who value quality will always pay for it, no matter the location.

It’s time to normalise:
✅ Rate transparency
✅ Business advice sharing
✅ Open conversations
✅ Support over comparison
✅ Peers, not competition

If we spent half the time building our own brands and growing in confidence as we do worrying about “others getting ahead,” we’d all be thriving.

You hook the client — not your price. Not your town. Not your competition. You.

So let’s stop seeing fellow artists as threats. Let’s start seeing them as peers, collaborators, and even friends. Imagine year-end functions where we all come together not as rivals, but as creatives who support each other.

There is enough sun for all of us. Let’s stand in the light together.

With love,
Jeanne-Kay
Rose Serene Studio