Once seated in this makeup maven’s chair, Jessica is known for giving her client's life changing makeovers. Upon meeting her, I knew it was something different about her, not only her knack for meticulously beating a face into perfection, but her caring, warm and friendly demeanor. The consummate professional, she is always endeavoring to uplift and impart confidence through her ministry of makeup to every individual she works with. We love that this talented artist assuredness rest in her total trust and belief in the Creator above and I am delighted to share my interview:
Welcome Jessica, thanks for sitting down with us to share your story! Please tell us about yourself - what you do professionally and what you have going on in regards to any ministry endeavors etc?
I am a professional Makeup Artist and owner of Jay Ariane Makeup based in DC, Interior Designer and artist. I've been a makeup artist for five years and recently decided to pick up where I'd left off with interior design. I've been on a home staging team for a few months. I've also been singing with the praise and worship team at my local church (Bethel City of Hope) for 11 years.
How do you couple your faith with what you do professionally?
Ministering to people and aiding in confidence building is an imperative part of my job. I find that repeat business not just happens because of great work but because of how you make the individuals around you feel. Everyone has a story and you'd be surprised how much people open up when you're in close proximity to them. Whether on a print ad shoot, on set with male anchors for CBN News or in a bridal suite, my goal is to encourage and uplift every person who sits in my makeup chair.
How do you manage and a maintain balance in the different aspects of your professional & personal life along with your relationship with God?
Here is what I do: Set aside time for daily devotion and prayer which helps me remain focused. I write everything down and have a daily task schedule that gets checked off; which aids in my productivity. I workout at least four times a week with a friend. I write down two positive things that made me happy each day as a reminder to remain grateful.
What advice can you give others who have interests in what you do, what type of direction would you give them?
The two biggest pieces of advice I'd give aspiring makeup artists is:
- Find your niche! Meaning what kind of makeup artist do you want to brand yourself as? (bridal? broadcasting? film? special effects? fashion? commercial? special events?) Once you determine that, it'll be easier to navigate through this complex yet small industry. You'll know what to focus on and seek mentorship from experts already in that "genre".
- Spend your money on reputable artists who have tenure and can guide you. I meet so many people who go to classes hosted by Instagram makeup artists...and are disappointed that they got nothing out of it that they couldn't have gotten from watching a Youtube video. If a makeup artist's feed is mostly makeup on their own face and there's nothing else as far as diversity is concerned...save your coins!
What’s been your greatest accomplishment thus far?
So far, my greatest accomplishment has been quitting my full time job and going into business for myself. It wasn't easy, but it is worth it.
Tell me about the any challenges you’ve faced, how you endured and what keeps you wedded to what you do?
In the beauty industry, I've encountered a lot of individuals that come around and seem to be there for their own selfish gain and motives. They seem to have genuine interest in building a professional relationship but as soon as they use you and no longer need you, they discard you. I've been burned a few times and I remember praying for God to give me the gift of discernment in order to perceive the spirit of those that surround me and to sift the good from the time wasters. What keeps me rooted is my resilience in spite of obstacles and the assurance that my life, my success, is in no-one else's hands but God's. I do my part to the best of my natural ability and God adds the super!
What about fashion do you love most? Are there any new trends or concepts in fashion that’s piqued your interest as of late? Do you have any particular designers/stores/brands that you just love and even prefer when actually shopping for clothes or when reviewing certain pieces to blog? If so, tell me why these in particular are your go-to?
What I most love about fashion is the ability to express one's self. Lately, I've been into crisp white tops, baby blues, light peaches, neutrals, baby pinks and just about anything soft, feminine yet elegant. I enjoy mixing the soft with funky jewelry. I enjoy shopping at Saks, Nordstrom, Zara, Asos, to name a few. I also quite enjoy thrift and consignment store shopping for accessories.
Is there anything you will not wear even if it’s considered haute or on trend?
That yeezy trend with holes everywhere and plastic/transparent boots?? I'll pass!
I have a witty style question that I like asking all you stylish gals of faith, “What’s Your Style Innuendo” (the way you would like others to consider or view what your style is without you even saying a word when they see you)? Now, how would you describe your overall style (lifestyle) – dress, education, personality, things you do, your circle etc? How has your overall style evolved in the past few years and why?
I'd say my style innuendo is 'modern/chic with a splash of fun". My style changes based on how I feel. Some days, it's a leather jacket and high waisted pants, other days it's an off-the-shoulder knee length flowy denim dress. My style choices change often because I incorporate some trendy pieces but I do have go to classics that don't fail
This blog series is about not only highlighting careers, businesses and accomplishments, but transforming style from the inside out, therefore, how can one transform their style and faith in a positive progressive manner, maintain it and do so without compromise? BONUS! I’m throwing this out here, what are your thoughts on saved folk wearing tattoos- just like wearing an accessory and do you wear it as an accessory, or are you against it personally because of scripture?
I highly recommend individuals who have a hard time tastefully transforming their styles to book a consultation with a wardrobe stylist. An expert like Sybil Street can guide and educate you on the types of pieces that will enhance the body, push you out of your comfort zone, and create looks that will enable you to brand yourself confidently without compromising your standards. Women can be chic without exposing their body parts, some things are to be kept between you, your maker and your spouse. In regards to tattoos, I would personally never have tattoos, but have no issue with saved folks having them (as long as they are tastefully done).
What can we expect next from you professionally and personally, even in ministry?
What's next is the expansion of my bridal brand and opening a salon. I'd also like to divulge more time to be a blessing to women who've had a hard journeys whether through music and/or pampering. Lastly, a personal goal is to make use of my passport and travel more!!
To view Jessica's work and inquire about makeup services, please connect with her at the following:
IG: @jayarianemakeup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/JArianeMUA/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JArianemua