My interview for VoyageLA online publication. Get to know me!!
Heather, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Growing up I danced and did a bit of acting and always loved being around creative people. When I graduated from High School, I decided to major in Psychology which is a natural progession from being creative right?! HaHa! I did this to appease my parents but ultimately I did appreciate the process and worked hard to receive a BA degree in Psychology. I believe it made me a more well rounded person.
After college, I took some time off to figure out what I really wanted to do and going back to school for a Masters was definitely NOT what I envisioned myself doing. So I decided to go to Makeup School to tap more into my creative side to see where that would take me! I absolutely loved makeup school and immersing myself into the realm of all things ‘Makeup’. I learned beauty, some special effects, and bald cap application and honestly had the best time learning and creating. My teachers were awesome, engaging and professional makeup artists as well so they really helped and inspired me from the very beginning.
From getting certified in Makeup…I then went on to work in film, in the headshot space, on beauty campaigns and on branding shoots and naturally moved into the event and wedding niches. I have worked in all of these genres but Bridal is probably my fave. I just adore being apart of a Bride’s wedding day and bringing her vision to life while making her feel and look amazing. When all of the pieces are put together…the hair, the makeup and the dress, it’s magical!! I absolutely love what I do and understand that it’s a collaboration from who the client is and wants to a photographer and or agency that is behind a shoot to makeup , hair and wardrobe. I thrive in a collaborative environment and feel energized when I work with brides and any other artists who are passionate and talented at their craft. Most importantly, being around good people is what makes my world go around.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Becoming a freelance makeup artist doesn’t come without its struggles. The hussle is real and can get tiresome. It’s all about making connections and really being supported by those connections. Word of mouth is huge and of course the biggest compliment any small business like mine can receive. Also, if you freelance and are considered the boss, you are in charge of the business, the finances, social media, communications and the creative part so it’s not easy to be all things all the time. Balancing it all is very hard and there are times you are busier than others so it’s optimizing those highs and also making sure the not so busy times are met with proactiveness and insightful actions. When you are doing what you love to do, it’s worth it!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in Bridal Makeup. My vibe is soft glam and making sure a BRIDE feels and looks like an enhanced version of herself on her wedding day. I believe in listening to what a client wants and creating a customized look that suits her to a ‘T’.
I am most proud of making my clients feel amazing, clients that repeatedly call me for makeup sessions for events or shoots, for clients that refer me, for clients giving me 5 star reviews and for being able to connect with clients from all walks of life and backgrounds.
What sets me apart from others is the fact that I absolutely LOVE what I do so I am motivated by giving that energy to everyone. I live to make the time I have with my clients fun and nurturing while customizing each and every experience with my expertise. I am extremely organized and try to take as much off of a Bride’s plate as possible and I give awesome touch up kits to my clients that always leave a sweet impression!
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
The characteristics that I feel are most important in my success is the ability to adapt and make every client feel special , look beautiful and feel confident. And of course to have fun and help bring that energy to any event or makeup gig that I do!