If I had to describe Anna Warner-Mayes, I would use words like beauty, style, grace. She epitomizes the ideals of a strong, supportive woman in so many aspects. I was drawn to her and asked her to be featured on our Babe Watch for all the reasons that I have mentioned. Anna is a small business owner in the Detroit area with her business The Lipstick Journey. She is also living with Cancer. And, while Cancer does not define Anna or anyone else for that matter, it is an important part of her life and business.

Anna realized that during her journey with Cancer she was using lipstick shades to share her feelings and mood. If she was feeling sad, she would wear a nude to be more muted and if she was feeling fierce she would wear a bold red. Seeing this connection, Anna took a leap and developed her own brand, The Lipstick Journey, to create her own liquid lipsticks. The product represented her and her journey, but also the company is philanthropic making a donation from every single purchase to the fight against Cancer.

Anna has channeled her creativity and her story even further into a blog featured on her website titled The Lipstick Journal. It is beautifully written and deserves more attention. She is honest and raw and real. Reading her words made me connect with her in such a profound way. Anna also recently released a book entitled My Lipstick Journey Through Cancer that I have not been lucky enough to read just yet. However, I did just order a copy for myself and another to giveaway to one of my Instagram followers! I cannot wait to dive deeper into her story.

Reading the answers that Anna submitted to her Babe Watch Questionnaire made me even more intrigued. I want you to read more about her below, but let's just say we are dealing with a crazy impressive and fun individual here! Check it out...

Your Business / Service Name(s)

The Lipstick Journey

What is Your Website? Insta Handle? (Or However Else We Can Find You!)

TheLipstickJourney.com @thelipstickjourney

Why Did You Decide To Start Your Business?

I have always loved lipstick and used lipstick to help describe the mood(s) I was in or wanted to be in throughout my cancer journey (4th time with cancer since 2008). When I was diagnosed with Stage 4 metastatic cancer in 2017, I knew I wanted to do something with my journey that would somehow help other fighters so I decided to create my own lipstick company that gives back.

Do You Have a Blog, Podcast, or Youtube Channel? Tell Us About It!

I've had a blog since the third time I had cancer (2011), which talks about my life, my journey, and my faith. Lipstick-Journey.com

What Is The Best Advice You Can Give to A Woman Starting Her Business Venture?

Be patient and stay focused on your mission and what you want/like. There will always be critics. Also, find other women entrepreneurs who can support you and keep you accountable.

What Is Something Most People Don't Know About You?

I used to be a singer (local events, tv show, and radio jingles). I also had my chance at Broadway at one point. I actually started college as a music theater major and ended up with a biochem degree.

What Does Your Typical Day Look Like?

Wake up an hour before everyone else, read, meditate, pray. Prepare for day job (Oncology pharma rep), go to work (pre-covid), come home, family time, dinner, then lipstick fulfillment the rest of the night.

Who Are Some Women That Inspire You? (Globally and Locally)

Globally-Oprah, Michelle Obama, Mother Teresa, Jamie Kern Lima, Jen Benn Shersher, Kara Skaflestad

Locally- My mom, Kelly Hartman, Emily Steffen, Meagan Ward, Laura Horwath

So many more...

What Was One Huge Business Flop or Problem That You Had to Endure and How Did You Handle That?

Having a launch date and presale and the product not being ready. First I panicked and didn't sleep that well. Once I realized it was out of my control, I took deep breaths, posted on social media, and waited patiently. I adjusted my launch date, communicated with customers, and everyone was so supportive.

What Accomplishment Are You Most Proud Of?

Being able to donate $5000 to the cancer organizations I committed to in the first year of business.

What Do You Do For Self Care?

Prayer, meditation, and some form of exercise every day. I also like to journal and read.

What Jobs Did You Work Before You Created Your Business? Tell Us Your Journey.

I've been in pharmaceutical sales for almost 30 years (since college), I worked in a lab for a bit, and worked for an oncology diagnostic company for awhile as well. In my younger days I've done fast food, retail, and waitressing too!

Give Us Five Fun Facts About You!

* I'm in a blended family and we have 5 kids

* I'm a major foodie and could eat out every day

* I love live music (concerts/musicals)

* I was once on a roller derby team

* I was Miss Philippines of Michigan

What Sign Are You? Are You Into Astrology?

Scorpio baby! Not entirely into astrology but love my sign

Do You Know Your Enneagram? If So, What Is It?

I'm a total 9

What One Word Represents You Most.

Resilient

What is Your Favorite The Posh Shop Co Product?

Mugs and pencils with all the sayings