Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Parente.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I have always been creative. From dance and ice skating to the National Art Honor Society, my involvement throughout high school typically involved creative expression and art. Not completely clear of how to pivot my passions and talents into a career, I attended DePaul University where I earned a double major in Communications and Art & Design. As fate would have it, it was a part-time job at MAC Cosmetics that started me down the path to where I am today. Almost immediately, I fell in love with makeup artistry. Not only did it provide me the artistic outlet that I was craving, but it gave me the opportunity to connect with clients and help them fulfill their visions. Upon completing coursework at Make-Up Designory (MUD) and interning, then working for Ford Models Agency, I launched a successful 10+ year career working as a freelance makeup artist in Chicago and Los Angeles. Recognized for a soft, clean approach to makeup, many of my clients also sought my advice on skincare products and regimens. A self-proclaimed geek when it comes to studying skincare ingredients and treatments, this opened another door for me professionally. In 2010, I completed my license in Esthetics and have been advising and treating patients ever since. Today, I am truly living my dream. By day, I am helping my patients care for their “canvas”. On the weekends, I am bringing those blank canvasses to life!
Has it been a smooth road?
Definitely not. My nature has always been to take the road less traveled and carve my own path. Looking back, I could have never predicted that I would eventually have a fulfilling and enriching career as a makeup artist and esthetician. Because I never really had that clear career roadmap, I spent a lot of time early in my career exploring different opportunities and asking for a lot of advice. While some advice led me to amazing experiences, other advice wasn’t so encouraging. Often, I was told to “pick a job and stick with it” or “consider working in a field that was more stable”. That was difficult advice to navigate, but I was lucky to have the confidence and support to continue to pave my own path – even when it wasn’t linear. Whatever the journey, my best advice is to never stop learning and growing and to always know your worth. The more you stay relevant, the more value you can bring to your work and the richer your experiences will be. You never know where those skills and experiences will take you!
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Lauren Nicole Makeup – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I am an Esthetician and a Makeup Artist. As an Esthetician, I have worked in several different environments, including a plastic surgery and reconstructive practice, a laser center and medical spa and a large dermatology practice. Working in Los Angeles, I worked for a renowned plastic surgeon who followed an integrative approach that balanced the mind, body, and spirit – and his patients traveled from all over the world to receive his services. Appreciating that there is a growing demand and desire to be treated as a whole patient, I have embraced this philosophy and continue to incorporate principles into my work here in Chicago. In addition to my holistic approach, I believe that my ability to connect with patients and work with them to build highly personalized treatment plans is something that sets me apart from others. My clients know and trust that I have their best interests at heart. As a Makeup Artist, I have worked hundreds of freelance jobs, including fashion shows, brand test shoots, and weddings. I pride myself on my ability to understand and achieve every client’s unique vision. I spend a lot of time upfront with clients to understand what they are hoping to achieve through makeup. I’m not afraid to be challenged or held to the highest standards – this is exactly when I thrive! Regardless of which hat I’m wearing, I believe deeply in the value of my work and the impact that I can have on every client’s confidence and self-esteem.
Often it feels as if the media, by and large, is only focused on the obstacles faced by women, but we feel it’s important to also look for the opportunities. In your view, are there opportunities that you see that women are particularly well positioned for?
I was raised to believe that I could achieve anything that I put my mind to and I have always been supported 100% by my family. I truly believe that we each have our own unique skills and talents to offer the world and we, as women, have the absolute right to pursue our dreams and aspirations. I personally choose to see opportunities rather than limitations. While I understand challenges exist, I am inspired and uplifted by the fact that, today more than ever, women are embracing each other and coming together to bring about positive change.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.laurenicolemakeup.com
- Email: laurenicolemakeup@gmail.com
- Instagram: @laurenicole_beauty
- Facebook: Lauren Nicole Makeup Artist
Image Credit:
Karl Rothenberger, Erin Hoyt Photography, middle two bridal pictures, Dana Ann Photography, bottom two bridal pictures
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
