Sweet Cheeks: Beauty, Photos, Candy

Jessica Keller and Sierra Hodge are long-time friends who just happen to be fellow makeup artists as well.

The two decided to start a business where pleasure is key. With a love for candy, makeup and art, Keller and Hodge landed on a beauty/candy shop.

Keller is owner, and Hodge runs the storefront side of things. They are the only two full-time employees.

Deb Shade (of Deb Shade Photography) is a photographer who offers studio sessions, in-house, and a mutual friend fills in when the girls are out.

The idea for the store was prompted by a visit to Austin, Tex., when Keller and her husband discovered a candy shop that was to die for. “They liked it a lot and then she came back and wanted to open her own store,” Hodge said.

As friends who share the same passions (makeup and candy), the girls insist it was fate and both went full force from the start. “When I came back and wanted to open the store, she (Hodge) was right on board to do it all,” explained Keller.

They found a spot on Central Avenue and began prepping for their new business venture. The shop was dubbed Sweet Cheeks Candy and Beauty Bar. 

Services range from candy buffet packages to studio photography to makeup lessons and application, not to mention the candy selection in the store itself. The girls apply makeup for on-location occasions, like weddings or commercial shoots.

Candy Buffet packages allow customers to choose from a wide variety of candy to create the ideal dessert setup. Color scheming is a popular choice for events. and owner Jessica Keller even had a nostalgic candy buffet at her wedding.

“The buffets are customized to each event,” said Keller.

Makeup is also available for purchase in the store. Sweet Cheeks carries Pin Up Cosmetics. Eye shadows and powdered foundations are a couple of the products up for grabs.

Sweet Cheeks opened in April 2011 and said it shows no signs of slowing down.