Today we’d like to introduce you to Antonette White.
Antonette, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
My 1st job as Makeup Artist was as a resident makeup artist for Estee Lauder, back in the day at Marshall Fields. I didn’t have any prior experience.
This is how that happened- I was working for Donna Karen as a fragrance model at the time. Newly married for almost a year and expecting my 1st child- Marissa. Found out about a position opening up closer to home as a makeup artist. Never did makeup professionally! It was so nice some of the makeup artist in the cosmetic department got together and showed me what it would take to get ‘the job’. Sure enough, I became an Estee Lauder makeup artist. My picture was all around the mall, their new ‘makeup artist’. And I loved it! Estee Lauder training was amazing! Looking back, I can’t believe I got the job with no experience! I got the job as a makeup artist and grew as a makeup artist for one reason only- I always tried to understand the needs of my clients and listen to what they wanted. My gut did the rest!
After about 2 years and having my second child (Sebastian) I wanted to have more flexibility. That is when I was inspired to start my own Bridal Business. I’ll never forget all the brides coming to the makeup counter to get their makeup done and running to the Salon to get their hair done! I thought to myself ‘don’t they have a Zia that can come help them get ready’. Who runs around on their wedding day getting their hair & makeup done! Really?!
That’s when it came to me! I need to go to my bride’s not them come to the counter! Aftercall, my wedding day couldn’t have started more perfectly- two of my Aunts where over to get us all ready! I’ll never forget the chocolate covered strawberries and champagne getting my hair & makeup done at home! It was perfect! And that’s what I wanted to create- a perfect start to one of the most special days of a girl’s life…
After only 3 years of being in business my team and I performed almost 400 weddings in one year!
Has it been a smooth road?
After about 5 years in business, I got completely burnt out. Soon after, getting a beautiful salon in downtown Elmhurst. It was one of the most difficult times of my life.
I never thought I would do Bridal again. But sure enough it happened! This time with the right priorities, putting the most important things first in my life.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Antonette White Airbrush Makeup and Hair Artistry – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
We are an on-location Bridal Beauty Company! And we love what we do!
Nothing more satisfying than helping our brides look and feel there absolute best before they walk down the aisle.
I have many proud moments! Too many to count! Every wedding that I do- and I see the look in my bride’s eyes of pure joy and excitement fills my heart. And it makes me want to do it over and over again.
So, wonderful to work with a team of amazingly talented artists, that truly inspire me! Always fresh and exciting!
I look forward to be able to teach what has taken years to ‘perfect’. The ‘Art of Bridal’. I want to inspire and help shape aspiring makeup artist in the most rewarding part of the Beauty and Bridal Industry.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love Chicago food & Lake Front! I love the diversity!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.antonettewhite.com
- Phone: 630.688.1027
- Email: beautyaw@gmail.com
Image Credit:
Maria Ponce
Victoria Sprung Photography (Photo of Antonette White with the Bride)
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