Meet Davenda Thompson of Paint Gal Studio in South Loop

Today we’d like to introduce you to Davenda Thompson.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Davenda. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’ve been in the beauty industry for over 10 years now. I got my start in the industry while I was an art major at Illinois Institute of Art. I was looking for a part time job to cover schooling costs and was told I should try out for a makeup artist position. Even though my experience was minimal, I ended up getting the job and over the years had the opportunity to work with top makeup lines including Smashbox, Stila cosmetics, Urban Decay cosmetics, Bare Minerals cosmetics, and MAC cosmetics. Once I gained enough experience, I branched out and started working as a freelance makeup artist. My makeup artistry has been featured on FOX news, Vh1, magazines, music videos, advertising campaigns, and celebrity clients.

I’ve had the chance to meet some amazing people of all races, ages, and skin types during my days at makeup counters and on set, I constantly strived to find out their needs and wants when receiving a makeup service. I soon realized a vital part was missing from their experience at department and beauty stores. Using that knowledge, I created Paint Gal Makeup Studio. Women come here to not only receive flawless makeup applications by our talented makeup artists, but actually learn how to recreate the look at home. The best part is that we don’t pressure anyone to buy a bunch of makeup products that they don’t need. We would rather focus on making sure our clients walk out looking and feeling beautiful by providing an amazing experience.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There have definitely been obstacles along the way. Unfortunately, there isn’t a step by step guide to creating and growing a makeup studio and it required a lot of trial and error. Finding a location, securing funding, and marketing were a few things I struggled with at times. One of my biggest struggles though was realizing that everyone will not support your dream and many times that can include friends and family. I learned to surround myself with inspirational, positive people as I embarked on the journey and also create a marketing campaign, so I wouldn’t have to rely on my immediate circle.

Please tell us about Paint Gal Studio.
Paint Gal Studio is a magical place of beauty. We pride ourselves on listening to the look YOU want and using our artistry talents to create a flawless makeup canvas. No matter how you come in, you’re guaranteed to walk out with your head held higher and a confident stride in your walk!

We use high quality, sanitized, makeup for makeup applications. We offer different “looks” and pricing that every gal will love. We also offer private makeup lessons, group classes, and packages to host your own “Gals Night In” event.

Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
When I was 10 I won a coloring contest at the local grocery store, with over 100 applicants. I knew on that day I was going to be an Artist.

Pricing:

• Our most popular service: “Flawless Gal” Makeup $100.00 Designed for special events & photography.

Contact Info:

• Address: Roosevelt Collection South Loop
  1136 s. Delano Ct., Chicago IL
• Website: Paintgalstudio@gmail.com
• Phone: 773 668 3878
• Email: paintgalstudio@gmail.com
• Instagram: Paintgalstudio
• Facebook: Paint Gal Studio

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