Today we’d like to introduce you to Cindy Vazquez.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Hi! I’m also known as SukyVMakeup. I am a Chicago based Makeup Artist.
This is my story in a nutshell…
It’s funny I wasn’t that little girl that played with her mom’s makeup or ever cared for it. I’d say I was more of a tomboy. I fell into makeup artistry by accident.
My major in college was photography. I wanted to pursue a career in fashion photography and I remember my teacher telling me that, that was a very competitive industry. So, I Freaked OUT! My girlfriends put into my head that I always did my makeup well and when I go back to look at photos, MY GOSH was that a total lie! So, I decided to give it a try. I enrolled in a media makeup class that my college offered and I really enjoyed it. However, I felt I wanted to learn from someone that had been in the industry for decades. This was 15 years ago when Makeup Artistry was not where it is now. There were no Makeup Schools in Chicago. I did my research and found Joe Blasco Makeup School in Hollywood CA. I told my parents I had to move to California for 8 months at the age of 19 to attend Makeup School and they were NOT HAVING IT!. After pleading with them, they finally gave in. After finishing my 8-month program at Joe Blasco, I moved back to Chicago and started working for MAC Cosmetics and freelanced for many different brands. I then realized retail was just not for me. I worked for different bridal agencies, did commercials for Univision TV, Photoshoots, etc. Since I was still a rookie, the pay wasn’t great. I had to do a ton of trade work and to be honest I was broke! I decided to branch out and work for myself. It was extremely challenging had many moments of wanting to give up because I didn’t have consistent work coming in. I would have the biggest freakouts during winter season work was scarce no weddings no events, nothing! But, I stuck through it giving up was not an option. I absolutely loved what it did.
Fast forward 15 years later, I have a solid roster of clients that keep me booked all year. From doing weddings, private clients, events, photo shoots, filming tutorials, making sure I’m posting on social media answering emails, etc. It can definitely get overwhelming when you’re in high demand. From going to no clients to working 7 days a week no weekends or holidays off. But this is exactly what I prayed for!
And boy, oh boy, did it come true! This is definitely my purpose! I am so happy and proud of not giving up. The joy I get when I see my clients reaction after their makeup session with me is priceless and keeps me going.
I am extremely honored and beyond grateful for all my amazing clients that have stuck by my side and all my new clients. Love you!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Definitely not a smooth a road. It’s a competitive field.
When you first start off as a Makeup Artist, you have to do a ton of free work to grow your portfolio and to get known.
Working independently, you have to find clients build your roster and reputation. And, in this industry your reputation is everything!
Please tell us about SukyVMakeup.
I am a Makeup Artist. My business SukyVMakeup specializes in weddings, events, photo shoots, TV media, celebrities, and private clients.
I’m known for creating flawless radiant skin and enhancing my client’s natural beauty.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
Honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing. Having to struggle, work hard and not giving up on something you’re passionate about and succeeding makes it all worth it.
Contact Info:
- Address: 777 N Green Street 4th floor
Chicago, IL 60642 - Website: www.sukyvmakeup.com
- Email: sukyvmakeup@gmail.com
- Instagram: @sukyvmakeup
- Facebook: SukyVMakeup
- Yelp: sukyvmakeup
Image Credit:
In the two high fashion photos, Photographer Lisa Richov, Dresses ByFashionAholic
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