BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: On Point Permanent Cosmetics

DECORAH — On Point Permanent Cosmetics, one of downtown Decorah's newest businesses, will celebrate its grand opening on February 6. Owner Angie Stapelkamp is a certified and licensed Permanent Make-Up (PMU) and Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) artist specializing in natural, long-lasting permanent cosmetics. Her goal is to enhance her clients' natural features while providing confidence that lasts. Each appointment is one-on-one, held in a relaxing setting and fully customized to each client's cosmetic goals, skin type and lifestyle. Cosmetic services offered at On Point include eyebrows, eyeliner, lips and hairline restoration. The most requested services are ombré powder brows and upper and lower eyeliner for lash enhancement. Additional services include microblade and shade combination brows, lip blushing and scalp micropigmentation. Service offerings will be expanded in the near future. DecorahNews.com recently spoke with Stapelkamp about her experience with opening On Point Permanent Cosmetics. DN: What inspired you to start this business? AS: I was inspired to start my business by both my mother and my husband. My mother was a business owner for most of my life, owning and working as the abstracter at Howard County Abstract & Title Company in Cresco until her retirement last year. Growing up, I worked alongside her in the office and was able to see firsthand the dedication, responsibility, and pride that comes with owning a business. My husband has also been a huge influence. He founded and owned a granite and quartz business while we lived in Colorado Springs for several years. After selling his business, we decided to relocate back to the Midwest. Once we moved to Decorah, he launched a new business adventure, The Hungry Ginger food truck, which opened in 2024. I worked alongside him throughout his entrepreneurial journey, from the granite shop to the food truck. Being surrounded by strong, hardworking entrepreneurs my entire life gave me the confidence and ultimate push to chase my own dreams. I have always had a passion for the beauty industry and tattoos, so I realized it was time to combine my love for the two and take a leap of faith. DN: What is your background, and how did you develop your skill set? AS: I received my Associate's degree from Northeast Iowa Community College in 2011, followed by my Bachelor of Science from Upper Iowa University in 2013. Prior to pursuing permanent cosmetics, I worked as a contract negotiator for physicians nationwide. My medical background provided a strong foundation in precision, safety, and professionalism, which I now bring into every aspect of my work and business at On Point. My first job was at Kwik Star when I turned 16. Working alongside people from all walks of life and interacting with the public at a young age helped shape my strong work ethic and laid the foundation for my customer service skills and ability to work well with others. DN: Tell us how you market your business to grow sales. AS: Social media is a vital part of my business. I love sharing before-and-after photos of clients who have given consent because it allows people to see real results, get to know me as the artist behind the work, and feel confident in the space before booking an appointment. This is especially important for clients traveling from outside Decorah. They want to know they can trust me, that their privacy is respected, and that they'll feel comfortable throughout the process. I also offer free consultations and take the time to walk clients through the entire process so they know exactly what to expect. This allows me to connect with potential clients in a personal and authentic way. The permanent cosmetics industry is constantly evolving, and I am committed to continuing education and advanced certifications to ensure I provide my clients with the latest techniques and best options available. DN: What has been your biggest success to date? AS: Receiving 5-star reviews, hearing clients share their experiences through word of mouth, and seeing their faces light up after their procedure. The joy my clients express, and the way they share it with others, feels like the greatest success I could ever ask for. DN: What is the best thing a customer has ever said about your business? AS: Clients often tell me they feel truly heard and cared for. They appreciate the one-on-one guidance and love the comfortable, relaxing space. There is truly no feeling like watching a client look in the mirror at the end of their procedure and completely light up. Whether it's a huge smile or tears of happiness as they see how transformative their results can be, it is incredibly rewarding. PMU is a major time-saver for women who don't have time for a daily makeup routine, as well as for those who don't enjoy applying makeup or never learned how. It allows clients to wake up already feeling put together and ready to go. My goal with On Point has always been to help others feel confident, happy, and beautiful, and hearing that from a client is the best feedback I could ever receive. DN: What inspires you to get out of bed every morning? AS: My son, my husband, my mom, and my wonderful support system inspire me daily. I am also incredibly grateful for my new business and for being welcomed with open arms into beautiful downtown Decorah. I am so excited to show up, create, and make a positive impact on my clients. DN: What is the best business advice you've ever received? AS: "If you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life." This has guided me every step of the way, reminding me that passion, joy, and genuine care for my clients are the heart of On Point. DN: What interesting fact about your business don't most people know? AS: Permanent cosmetics is not one-size-fits-all. Every client's face is unique, and my art is custom tailored to each individual. DN: What is your favorite genre of music or favorite musical group? AS: Anything from the '90s or 2000s. DN: Of all the places you've traveled, what has been your favorite and why? AS: I loved living in and exploring Colorado. I am drawn to both the mountains and the desert. My favorite places to return to time and time again are Las Vegas, Arizona, and Salem, Massachusetts. DN: When you're not working, what is your favorite thing to do? AS: Spending time at home with my family, traveling, and exploring my inner foodie. I'm always on the hunt for new foods to try. DN: What one piece of advice would you give to a young person looking to start their own business? AS: I am in my thirties and just starting a new business. It is never too late to change career paths, follow your dreams, and pursue something you love. DN: What do you hope clients take away from their experience with On Point Permanent Cosmetics? AS: Permanent cosmetics can be much deeper than surface-level beauty or vanity. I have witnessed my work be truly life-changing for individuals struggling with low hair density or thinning part lines, those who have undergone chemotherapy and never had their eyebrows grow back, and clients living with alopecia who have very little or no eyebrow or eyelash hair. Permanent cosmetics has helped restore their sense of self, and when you look in the mirror and finally feel like yourself again, that can be life-changing. I am incredibly honored to offer personalized services that help build confidence and empower others right here in Northeast Iowa. Editor's note: Business Spotlights are produced by the newsroom of DecorahNews.com and are not a paid advertisement. The goal is to recognize area businesses by telling their stories. It is challenging to be an entrepreneur, regardless of the type or age of the business. DecorahNews.com recognizes the huge role that businesses play in our rural communities. If you own a business in Decorah or Winneshiek county and would like to be considered for an upcoming Business Spotlight, tell us about your business here.