5 Minutes with Ella: A Rising Luxury Beauty Consultant

At Fortem & Mode, we believe the people on the shop floor are the heart of the beauty industry – not just for what they sell, but for the way they show up.

Ella joined our team in 2022 after moving to the UK from Nigeria. With a background in beauty sales and a natural talent for connecting with people, she quickly found her rhythm in-store. Whether she’s creating a calm, inviting space or perfectly shade-matching a first-time customer, Ella brings thoughtfulness, confidence and care to every shift.

We caught up with her to hear more about her journey as a beauty consultant, what drives her, and the quiet routines that make a big difference.

A New Beginning in the UK

Ella’s journey in beauty began long before she stepped onto a shop floor in the UK. “I started years ago with a company called Oriflame,” she says. “I worked as a beauty consultant and a sales representative.”

After relocating to the UK, she joined Fortem & Mode in 2022 and began working in-store. “Beth called me for an interview, and that’s how I started. Since then, I’ve been working mainly with Tarte Cosmetics, who I love.”

What Drives Ella on the Shop Floor

Ella lights up when she talks about customers. “Naturally, I love to interact. I love to listen to people,” she says. “Helping them figure out what works for them. It feels easy for me, like second nature. And when someone comes back and says, ‘You recommended this and it was amazing,’ that’s the best part.”

One moment stands out. “When I colour-match someone, and it’s right the first time, they’re always surprised. They’ll say, ‘How did you get it so fast? I’ve been trying to find the right shade for years.’ It’s small, but it means a lot to them, and to me.”

Creating an Inviting Space

Ella has a deep respect for the environment she works in, and it shows. “The first thing I do when I arrive is tidy,” she says. “Not just because I like things clean, but because it sets the tone. If a counter looks messy, I wouldn’t want to try anything myself.”

She’s also known for keeping the space fully stocked. “I replenish as I go. I don’t want a customer to reach for something and it’s not there, even though it’s in the drawer. It’s part of being ready, being thoughtful.”

It’s something store teams have noticed. “I’ve had managers and colleagues say, ‘Everywhere looks organised when you’re in.’ That means a lot to me.”

Growth Beyond the Counter

Working as a beauty consultant has helped Ella grow as a person. “It’s made me more confident with people,” she says. “You meet people from every background: different ages, different cultures.”

She’s developed a strong sense of emotional intelligence on the job. “I stay calm. I’ve learned how to read people, respond with care, and not let my emotions lead. It’s helped me grow, not just as a consultant, but as a human.”

Ella’s Advice for New Beauty Consultants

“You have to have a passion for it,” she says. “If you’re only doing it for the money, you won’t enjoy it. But if you love it, if it feels natural to help people, to support a brand, to care about what you’re doing – you’ll feel fulfilled, even on the hard days.”

And don’t skip the homework. “You have to know your stuff. Know the products. Know the ingredients. People ask questions you don’t expect, and when you can answer them well, they trust you. They know you care, and that builds loyalty.”

Inspired by Ella? Join Our Team

At Fortem & Mode, we’re proud to work with consultants like Ella. People who take pride in the small details, who care about every customer, and who show up with quiet confidence every day.

If you’re looking to rediscover what you love about the beauty industry, or you’re hiring and want people like Ella on your team, we’d love to hear from you.

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