Susan Rose is a dynamic force in beauty, business, and philanthropy. Starting her career at 16, she turned her passion for makeup and hair into a thriving brand. Today, Susan’s ventures include a beauty brand with a charitable mission, a photography company for small businesses, and an upcoming jewellery line with her daughter.
Driven by purpose, Susan turned personal grief into a mission to support children’s charities worldwide. With resilience, creativity, and a heart for change, she’s building businesses that empower others and make a real impact.
In this exclusive interview, Susan shares her journey, insights, and exciting plans for the future.
- Susan, can you share a little about your journey? What inspired you to step into the beauty and aesthetics world?
I started my journey at 16 with a passion for makeup and hair, turning fun makeovers for family and friends into a full-time career. Eager to grow, I pursued courses in hairdressing and aesthetics, and as a medical student now, I continue to challenge myself.
After losing my daughter to a rare heart condition, I created Susan Rose to honour her memory with strength and hope. What began as freelance makeup work evolved into a brand with a makeup line, beauty clinic, and academy, all focused on giving back. My journey is about turning pain into purpose, empowering others, and striving for meaningful impact.
- You’ve worked with aspiring celebrities, what makes a standout look for someone stepping into the limelight?
A standout look for someone stepping into the spotlight is all about staying authentic and confident. It’s not just about perfect makeup or hair, it’s about helping them feel like the best version of themselves while showcasing their unique personality. I focus on enhancing their natural features, whether it’s with a bold, eye-catching style or something subtle and timeless. The goal is to create a look that makes them feel empowered and comfortable in front of the camera so they can shine effortlessly. I also factor in the setting, whether it’s a red carpet, music video, or film premiere, ensuring the look matches the vibe and atmosphere perfectly.
- You’re juggling multiple businesses, your beauty brand, photography company, and an upcoming jewellery line. How do you balance it all?
Balancing multiple businesses is challenging, but it all comes down to prioritizing, staying organized, and having an amazing team. Nora, who owns NH Beauty and manages our business, has been incredible in keeping things running smoothly. We support each other’s growth. My husband, Ali, is fully involved too, he’s my co-planner, strategist, and biggest supporter, helping turn ideas into reality. With teamwork, trust, and shared goals, we keep everything thriving together.
- What inspired you to start your own beauty brand, and how does it stand out in a competitive market?
What inspired me to start my brand was a desire to create something meaningful. After losing my daughter to a rare heart condition, I wanted to turn my grief into a way to give back. While beauty isn’t directly tied to her memory, I realized my skills as a makeup artist could make a difference. With Susan Rose, part of the profits supports children facing health challenges worldwide. That deeper purpose beyond beauty is what truly sets us apart.
- Your beauty brand supports children’s charities worldwide. Can you share more about this initiative and its impact?
Supporting children’s charities has always been a core part of Susan Rose. From the very beginning, I made the decision to donate a portion of the profits from my beauty brand every month to various children’s charities around the world. It’s a way to use my success to give back and make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.
But I’m not stopping there, I’m currently working on starting my own organization. The goal is to work closely with hospitals in London, specifically to support palliative children. And we are hoping to expand worldwide and focus more medically one day in countries where they need help. I want to create moments of joy for these children, whether it’s as simple as braiding their hair or giving them a toy. Sometimes, it’s the little things that can make a child feel special and seen, even in the most challenging circumstances. I hope that this initiative will provide some comfort and empowerment to children and their families, and show them that there’s a community behind them, supporting them through their struggles. This is just the beginning, and I’m excited to grow this initiative and its impact in the future.
- With your photography business, you focus on helping small businesses. How do you approach capturing their vision through your lens?
I know how tough it can be for small businesses to build a strong portfolio, as I faced the same challenge when starting out. That’s why I’m passionate about offering affordable photography services to help brands with limited budgets create impactful visuals.
I don’t just capture what a business does but who they are, their story, style, and vision. Whether it’s products, services, or the people behind the brand, I focus on creating authentic, compelling images that make them stand out. My goal is to help businesses build a portfolio that reflects their identity and gives them the confidence to grow and succeed.
- Your jewellery line is coming soon. What can we expect from this venture? Any sneak peeks or themes you’d like to share?
I’m beyond excited about my upcoming jewellery brand, a special project with my 13-year-old daughter. She’s incredibly passionate about it and will be learning the ins and outs of running a business, from creating designs to bringing ideas to life. This venture is close to our hearts because, like Susan Rose, it supports children’s charities, a cause my daughter cares deeply about too.
While I can’t share all the details yet, the brand will focus on bridal and high-end jewellery with an emphasis on affordability. We’re designing elegant, timeless pieces that make people feel special without breaking the bank. It’s all about blending style with purpose, and I can’t wait to reveal what we’ve been working on.
- Who are your biggest influences in beauty, photography, and entrepreneurship?
My biggest influences come from beauty, photography, and entrepreneurship. In beauty, Huda Beauty is a huge inspiration, and MAC also stands out for their charitable work, which inspired me to incorporate a cause into my brand.
In photography, Natascha Lindemann’s close-up work has greatly influenced my style, and I aim to capture similar raw, intimate moments.
As an entrepreneur, my goal is to stand out by doing something completely unique, creating a legacy that’s different from anything else out there. I want to inspire others to think beyond the ordinary.
- Can you share any exciting projects or goals you’re working toward in 2025 and beyond?
In 2025 and beyond, I’m thrilled about launching our charity organization, which will make a meaningful impact. We’re also expanding the salon and opening a creative music studio where we’ll launch a podcast. Plus, I’m starting a new blog to share our charity work and show the real difference we’re making. These projects are part of a bigger vision, and I can’t wait to bring them to life!