Faye Lauren’s Story:
How I Became a Professional Makeup Artist
As I approached my early twenties I honestly had no idea what I wanted to do with my life. I wasn’t thrilled with the idea of school and couldn’t picture myself being behind a desk. It seemed so mundane to me because I always wanted a creative career. I decided to get a job at an Estee Lauder counter to try out something I was very interested in: makeup. I wasn’t in love with the counter at first because it’s mostly about selling the products. It did, however, give me a chance to do makeovers (which I fell in love with).
I decided to leave [the counter] and pursue the fashion side of my career. I started building a kit and took a month-long beginners course at a local makeup school. It was informative, but I’ve learned a lot by assisting other artists and working in my field. In about two years I built my website highlighting my work. After a few months of continuing to build my portfolio I happen to stumble upon a Maybelline gig for the Gen Art fresh faces show. This was a great experience and I really enjoyed working fashion shows. Two months later I decided to take a trip to the NYC Makeup Show to upgrade my kit. I met some beautifully talented people there such as Liz Yu, Jordan Liberty, Yisell Santos, and Maria Yeye. I decided I needed to work for one of my favorite brands, Make Up For Ever. I went up to the very busy area and introduced myself to a person who has helped me more than he’ll ever know. Within a month after the show I was asked to join the Make Up For Ever Alliance.
I realized early on that no one would hand me anything and that if I wanted it I would have to chase it. I think a lot of it is raw talent mixed with a good amount of right place right time chance meetings and situations. I recently decided to move to New York from Miami to pursue my passion for makeup. I have so much more to learn and look forward to assisting and test shooting in New York. I worked for Make Up For Ever at Miami swim week under the James Vincent team. Working with artists like James Vincent, Orlando Santiago, and Roshar I soaked up the knowledge I received from these strong talented mentors. As I continue to learn and explore my craft, I’m determined to succeed making a living doing what I love.
Congrats on the win!
What a great and inspirational story for those of us that are still somewhat fresh. I hope one day to work with/assist artists like Roshar and James Vincent and of course Jordan Liberty.
Aww, so sweet, Faye! I had seen this new work already, and I love. Thanks for mentioning me among such great talents! <3
Wow, I hope to find such great success!!