Just DO IT!

I know first hand how easy it can be to feel intimidated or nervous when you first start off as a makeup artist. It's easy to compare yourself to other makeup artist and it's even easier to get discouraged. Particularly when you are first building your portfolio and don't have much tangible evidence of your work. It's important to constantly stay motivated, focus on people that support you, and find ways to encourage your dreams.

There are thousands of makeup artist and it feels as though they multiply faster every day. It's easy to feel like you can't stand out particularly in a city like mine, Los Angeles. There is more makeup artist per square foot than any other industry! (at least it feels that way). I find that what separates successful makeup artist from those who do not continue their dreams is one thing: PERSEVERANCE. It takes perseverance to continue testing, learning, and networking consistently for many years. This is not an industry you can be partially committed to and somehow manage to be successful. 

With that being said breaking into Makeup Artistry isn't always easy but I can assure you it's absolutely worth it. I had days where I cried, felt frustrated, and in all honesty, even stopped doing makeup completely. I've had photographers who never gave me pictures, brides that canceled, or trade shoots that went over by hours. Every problem was a lesson learned and trust me they all have preventative measures I've now learned the hard way. If I had to do it all over again I absolutely would, I promise you it gets better. 

Whatever you do don't give up, other makeup artists before you had similar experiences. The famous Kevyn Aucoin left a legacy in the makeup world that still influences us all today even after 15+ years of his passing. He was adopted and his early life was a constant battle with bullying and not being able to fit in. He spent many nights on friend's couches and struggled in New York to make a name for himself. Eventually, it all fell into place and he worked with iconic faces like Madonna, Cher, Tina Turner, Mary J. Blige, Janet Jackson and SO many more. To read his full story check out his book Kevyn Aucoin a beautiful life: The Success, Struggles, and Beauty Secrets of a Legendary Makeup Artist on days when I feel like giving up I ALWAYS turn to this book for inspiration it reminds me that even with all the adversity Kevyn faced he was able to succeed and leave his mark for future generations of makeup artist, including myself. 

No matter how rough things get don't give up! Find ways to keep your goals alive, try visualizing it, make a list of reasons you want to become a successful makeup artist, break down your big goals into smaller steps, have a strategy but give yourself room for the detours. Kick your ego to the curb and don't be too prideful or scared to ask for help. After every job or project, you work on check in with yourself... Are you on the right track? Will this get you closer to your goal? Are you happy? What can you do differently next time? Make it happen and JUST DO IT I guarantee that you are capable of much more than you allow yourself to believe <3

What Kind of Makeup Artist Do You Want to Be?