Carnival Glam Hub: The Beauty Behind the Business

In recent years, the makeup industry has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity, with beauty enthusiasts worldwide embracing cosmetics as a form of self-expression and empowerment. Amidst this flourishing landscape, many individuals have turned their passion for makeup into thriving businesses, carving out successful careers as makeup artists, beauty
influencers, and cosmetics entrepreneurs. One such entrepreneur who has forged a path and changed the carnival industry in the Caribbean is owner and founder of Gabby Glam Co., Gabrielle Waite.

In a world where creativity knows no bounds Gabrielle Waite emerges as a beacon of artistry, transforming faces into masterpieces. Born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica Gabrielle Waite or as everyone else calls her, Gabby discovered her love for makeup at a young age. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant colors of nature, among other things, she embarked on a journey to pursue her passion professionally and soon became one of Jamaica’s top celebrity makeup artists.

Building a clientele and establishing a strong reputation is something that Gabby took seriously and as such she engineered her success in this field.

One of her most profitable ventures is her annual Carnival Glam hub held at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel. This event is the number the #1 Carnival Makeup and Glam Concierge service in the region. This year’s execution marked the 6th staging of the event which has been held in 9 different countries so far, 7 Caribbean countries along with Canada and the US.

In a recent interview with BATV, CEO Gabrielle Waite shared that this year, Glam Hub experienced a significant increase in bookings, reaching 350, which led to the creation of jobs for 170 Jamaicans. Furthermore, Waite outlined the company’s expansion ambitions, aiming to bring Glam Hub’s services to every nation that hosts a carnival. Despite these ambitious plans, the company is currently prioritizing the improvement of their current services.

Throughout its existence, Carnival Glam Hub has drawn significant sponsorship from prominent corporations, including Jamaica Observer, Pringles, Red Stripe, Caribbean Producers Jamaica (CPJ), Mountain Peak, and many others. Within the Glam Hub, an array of services awaits, ranging from makeup and hair to breakfast, photoshoots, massage services, manicures, pedicures, and more. Additionally, shuttle services to carnival bands are provided. This year, Scotiabank
Jamaica took notice and sponsored two makeup and photoshoot packages for two fortunate winners from online competitions.

We had the opportunity to catch up with Jodi-Ann Campbell, Brand Manager for Rum Stripe, one of Glam Hub’s main sponsors, who informed BATV that this was their second year as sponsors. She expressed that last year’s experience was fantastic, making the decision to sponsor again a no-brainer. They observed that patrons were highly satisfied with the service they received. This year, Red Stripe provided welcome drinks to all attendees of Glam Hub, set up a photo backdrop for those interested in taking photos, and operated a booth inside Glam Hub offering drinks courtesy of Red Stripe Flavours.

Waite highlighted the tremendous support Glam Hub and Carnival received, not only from sponsors but also from the Government. The assistance, which includes security as well, was greatly appreciated.

We also had an opportunity to speak with Kibwe McGann, Business Manager for the event and one of the Directors for GENXS. McGann said that the whole concept behind Glam Hub was to create an atmosphere for Revellers to have a ‘one-stop-shop’ for everything they would need for carnival from makeup to hair, body waxing services, nail services, barbing and so much more.

When asked for advice for budding beauty professionals eager to tap into Carnival opportunities but uncertain about where to start, Gabrielle emphasized that the Carnival Glam Hub team is eager to partner with service providers. They provide essential publicity and exposure needed to succeed in the industry.

In addition to the widely recognized Carnival Concierge event, Waite also owns Gabby Glam Cosmetics, which offers a variety of lip products. These can be purchased locally at Fontana Barbican and Waterloo, EC Makeup Bar, The Face Place, Mirror Mirror, on her website at gabbyglamcosmetics.com, or online through Amazon. Later this year, Gabby Glam Cosmetics is set to introduce two new products.

In October 2023, she was honored with the prestigious ‘Distinguished Award’ for her contributions to the beauty industry and has graced the pages of numerous magazines. Garnering acclaim, she’s been hailed as the ‘Rising Star of Caribbean Makeup and Cosmetics.’

Yet, amidst her rising success, Gabby remains grounded, constantly seeking new challenges and opportunities for growth and in January of 2024 she diversified her portfolio by adding Real Estate. She currently operates an Airbnb property in New Kingston only 20 minutes away from the Norman Manley Airport referred to as “ Solace in the City”. This property consists of 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom and she also offers makeup services to her guests, should they require it.

As she continues to leave her mark on the beauty industry, her journey serves as a testament to how the makeup industry as a business has evolved.