Today we’d like to introduce you to Simone Lee.
Simone, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
My journey with makeup started in 2008 when I worked for Ulta as a Prestige beauty artist. I will admit, I previously went to school for cosmetology, but I knew absolutely nothing about makeup let alone how apply makeup. At that time in my life my knowledge of makeup was mascara and a lip gloss from time to time. I wanted to learn more about makeup/ skin care and this was the perfect opportunity to do so.
Thank goodness for the all the freelancers and educators that came to the store to train and demonstrate their products. They were very respective to all my questions. This was about the time I discovered YouTube videos and watched them religiously, from reviews of new products and most importantly the makeup tutorials. From there I practiced on friends, family and even myself. Also, working at Ulta gave me plenty of faces, tones and textures to practice and build my skills and expertise.
Has it been a smooth road?
No, it has not been a smooth road, there have been a few setbacks and lessons learned along the way. I knew my passion was to be a makeup artist, but I didn’t know on what scale. I have worked in the retail/sales industry for over 15 years and I knew I wanted to work for myself doing what I enjoyed. The struggle now is to get to that place where I able to rise in the morning and go out and do makeup- and to make a living by doing just that.
Tell us more about the business.
My freelance work (and mobile) L. Simone is my passion- My specialty is Bridal makeup services. Also, I enjoy the personal makeup education sessions with individual and groups.
One of my favorite styles for brides and their court is the natural beauty look, but I can bring on the glam when requested. It is all about giving the client what they want for their special day. I am also experienced in the application of Airbrush makeup.
I am most proud of myself for not giving up when I wanted to so many times and go home. I have a really great support group (family/friends/clients) who continue to uplift me and keep me going. I thank the Lord for them every day.
In the freelance world you get to play test and work with different makeup/skincare brands. Along with my professional training/education this is a great assist to me during makeup classes, and consultations.
I also write for a quarterly Black owned back in my hometown of Pittsburgh called “The Soul Pitt”. I write about makeup trends, application, skincare and answer reader questions on beauty topics.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
The most important element in my success is to never stop learning and asking questions. It is the only way I can evolve and develop my knowledge and techniques. What I love most about makeup is there is always something new, to try. I continue to watch YouTube videos for first looks/reactions. It’s a great tool to stay in the know of what’s new! I love to discovery new ways of applying makeup. It’s important to embrace newness as this is an ever changing industry.
I have a few close friends that are also professional makeup artists, and we love to share our knowledge, experience and techniques on makeup/skin care. It’s a really great way to stay on your toes.
Pricing:
- Bridal Look includes lashes $150
- Bridal Airbrush Look + includes lashes $185
- Wedding packages available upon request
Contact Info:
- Address: Interested clients may contact me via email at simone.l.lee@gmail.com for details on availability, services and pricing
- Email: Simone.l.lee@gmail.com
- Instagram: Simone_ll
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