Today we’d like to introduce you to Michaela Carpenter.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
It all started when I left my corporate job and moved to States to be with my back then-boyfriend (now husband). I was waiting for my green card and looking for activities to fill my time with. I knew that I don’t want to go back into working in the office when the day comes and that I want to be my own boss, despite the fact I enjoyed my corporate job (I was a sales executive for a media company and traveled to Africa on regular basis for projects). I was always inclined towards art and used to do a lot of crafts, paint, etc. Back home in Slovakia, I did photoshoots for a fun as a model and I thought it would be a good idea to try here as well, I would at least meet some new people since I didn’t know anybody here.
I met with a photographer to do some pictures and he complimented my styling and makeup and asked if I ever thought about doing it on somebody else. Until then I haven’t. However, that idea got stuck in my head and it wasn’t until a couple of months later when I started building my portfolio. I did many free shoots and makeups just to have work to showcase in the future. I attended a workshop with one of the most well know makeup artists- Hosway Morbak from LA and kept my education going after that.
Once I got my residency and permit to work in States, I started charging just a couple of dollars to cover at least my expenses and get as many clients as possible. Figuring out what products to use, what would work the best for me and my clients was a long journey but worth it. Now, two years into building my business, I am proud to say people come to me upon recommendation and I was fortunate enough to work at some wonderful events and got to know many wonderful and talented people. I am able to do what I love and build my dream but still be there for my husband and son.
Has it been a smooth road?
The hardest thing was starting from zero in the city where I knew nobody, far from my family, friend and life I’ve been building for the previous 24 years. There were days when I wanted to give up and just be done, but I always remind myself that I am building my dream and I am also doing this for my family. I thankfully have an amazing and supportive husband who believes in me and tries to help out as much as possible. There were hard times, and there will be more hard days but at the end of the day, freedom of being my own boss and doing what I love is worth it.
I believe the most important thing is to never give up. It is not hard to start but its harder to keep going, especially with obstacles that come your way. Every young woman starting her business should recognize that it is not going to be easy, but at the end of the day, things that are worth it are never easy.
What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
I specialize in photoshoot makeup. I do a lot of styling for headshots, maternity shoots, and boudoir but I do wedding styling occasionally as well. I test all the products personally before I put them in my makeup case. That way, I guarantee that my clients get only the best products. I won’t ever put anything on clients’ faces I won’t use myself. My goal is to use just enough makeup to underline clients’ natural beauty. I am a big fan of “less is more”. My goal is to empower my clients by highlighting their best features. There is nothing more rewarding than a smile on clients’ faces once they look in the mirror at the end of makeup application and say they like what I have done.
So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well-positioned for?
I feel like there are enough opportunities out there but one must either look for them or create them. Opportunities don’t just present themselves. Nothing will just fall in your lap if you are sitting around waiting for a miracle to happen. I am trying to be proactive and reaching out to new studios, photographers and agencies frequently as in this business is always about recommendations and getting to know more people.
Pricing:
- $100 Photoshoot package (makeup + hair)
- $65 Photoshoot makeup only
- $40/hour touch ups
- $80 Special Event Makeup (includes Bridesmaids)
- $20 Flower Girl
- $155 Bridal Makeup (including trial and fake lashes)
Contact Info:
- Website: www.makeupartistdenver.org
- Phone: 7208357773
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makeupartistdenver/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/makeupartistdenver/
Image Credit:
Brenda Price, Mikaela Antonelli, Bri Bond, Bill Murf, Elizabeth Cortes, Justin Paul Prosolow
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