Hi 🍋

Hey beauties! Building on my journey of regrets and dreams, I wanted to share some deeper thoughts and practical steps for anyone out there feeling stuck or hesitant to chase their passion, especially in the creative world of makeup artistry. It’s easy to look back and wish we’d started sooner, but the beauty of our path is that we can always pivot and begin today. Embrace the Imperfect Start: Just Do It! I mentioned my regret about not starting to promote myself, no matter how "bad" I thought my makeup was. This is such a common trap! We spend so much time comparing ourselves to the AaliyahJs and Brianna Maries of the world, feeling like we need to be perfect before we even begin. But here's a secret: they all started somewhere, and their early work probably wasn't "perfect" either. My advice? Just start. Pick up that brush, do a look, take a photo, and share it. Your skills will improve with every single attempt. Don't let the fear of imperfection steal your progress. Every messy eyeliner wing, every slightly uneven contour, is a step on your learning curve. Conquering the Inner Voice: Fear, Doubt, and Anxiety The year 2020 was a big one for many, and like me, you might have felt paralyzed by fear, depression, or anxiety. It's a heavy burden, and it can make pursuing any dream feel impossible. I remember watching others succeed and thinking, "That could have been me." But that thought itself was part of the problem. Instead of dwelling on what could have been, I had to shift my focus to what *could be*. Small, consistent actions are key. Start by dedicating just 15 minutes a day to your craft. Watch a tutorial, practice a new technique, or even just organize your kit. These tiny wins build momentum and chip away at that overwhelming feeling. Find a supportive community – even if it's just one friend – who believes in your potential and encourages you to keep going when self-doubt creeps in. Building Your Digital Presence: Beyond the "Viral" Moment Promoting yourself on platforms like TikTok or Instagram is essential today. While we all dream of that "viral moment," true growth often comes from consistent, authentic engagement. Don't just post; interact! Share your journey, your struggles, your triumphs. Show your process, not just the final flawless look. People connect with authenticity. Use relevant hashtags like #mua, #makeuptutorial, or #blackgirlmakeup, and if you're in a specific area, #atlantamakeupartist, to reach your target audience. Even if you don't have many followers now, every single follower is a person who sees value in your work. Focus on providing value, whether it's through tips, inspiration, or simply showcasing your unique style. From Passion to Profession: Opening Your Own Studio My dream of opening my own shop and taking clients before I hit 31 feels huge, but it's built on smaller, achievable steps. If you share this dream, start building your portfolio NOW. Offer to do makeup for friends, family, or even local events for free or at a reduced rate to gain experience and photos. Network with photographers, stylists, and other creatives in your area. Think about what kind of experience you want to offer your clients. What's your signature style? What makes you unique? Even if you start small, perhaps with a dedicated corner in your home or by offering mobile services, every step brings you closer to that dream studio. Don't let the feeling that "most people look over me" discourage you; your unique talent will shine through to the right people. Keep That Fire Burning: Makeup 'Til the Day I Die My passion for makeup is what fuels me, and I know it's a driving force for many of you too. Keep reminding yourself why you started. Why do you love makeup? Is it the transformation, the creativity, the joy it brings to others? Hold onto that core passion. There will be tough days, moments of doubt, and times you feel like giving up. But if you truly want to do what you love until the day you die, then every challenge is just another opportunity to prove your resilience. Your journey is uniquely yours, and it's worth every effort. Keep creating, keep learning, and keep believing in the magic you bring to the world through your art.