Today we’d like to introduce you to Abigail (Abby) Lindquist.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started beauty school in 2008 at Tricoci University in Rockford, IL; about three weeks after I graduated high school. I always to becoming a Cosmetologist was something I was going to pursue. I grew up in the beauty industry, my mom was a stylist along with my great-grandmother, making me a 3rd generation stylist. Initially, I thought I wanted to become a colorist, working in a high-end salon downtown Chicago. I realized a few years later, that my passion was in color, but I was obsessed with makeup. So, I pursued makeup artistry and expanded my career. After moving around to a few different cities for work, I finally settled in my dream city, Chicago.
After working in the school side of the beauty industry for several years, I made a complete transition into for-profit-education. It only took about six months to realize that my heart and soul was in the beauty industry. I made it a goal of mine to transition back into doing hair and makeup, but becoming a struggling artist was not an option for me. About six months later, two weeks before Christmas, I was laid-off from my cushy corporate job. I remember this being such a pivotal point in my life, I knew that day I never wanted to work for someone else again doing something I wasn’t passionate about. It was then I decided to take the leap and Abigail Marie Artistry was born, in December of 2015. Around the same time, I also started teaching specialty classes part-time in both hair extensions and airbrush makeup with Academy Pro Hair INC.
Fast forward three years later, my calendar is full of weddings and special event makeup. I get to travel around the country with some of my clients and teach specialty classes at a National Level. Looking back, getting laid off was such an incredible blessing in my life because it pushed me to my purpose and passion. I never take a single day for granted and can truly say, I wake up every single day loving what I do.
Has it been a smooth road?
It’s been anything but smooth. When I first started my business, I went from a cushy salary job with benefits to 100% commission and no benefits. Which meant, If I’m not working, I’m not making money. That was a huge adjustment. I had a ton of obstacles to overcome. I was broke, no job, I had no family in the city, with a huge rent to pay. However, I chose to use those challenges to fuel my fire. When I was faced with adversity, I had two choices to quit or keep going. Needless to say, I kept going, and I’m so thankful I did. I’m proud now to say I’m 100% self -made and I’ve never had anything given to me. Everything I’ve had today I’ve worked incredibly hard for.
There is an illusion that success happens overnight when in reality it takes years. I’m nowhere near where I want to end up, but I love what I do every day. My advice would be to always keep going, stay consistent, develop discipline early on in your journey and most importantly, fall in love with the process. If you don’t love the process, you’ll never enjoy the moments you work really hard for. Invest in yourself, in your business, and personal development. This is an instrumental part of your process. Lastly, find a professional mentor soak up all their knowledge. I wouldn’t be where I am today without mine. Don’t chase the money – chase your passion and the money will come.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I’m a professional makeup artist and extension specialist. I carry a valid cosmetology license. I am known as a makeup artist for looks ranging from soft natural glam to bold sultry, smoldering eyes. My goal as an artist is to enhance my client’s natural beauty. I”m extremely passionate about educating clients, and industry peers. I always want women to feel their most beautiful, so teaching them how to create those styles and looks at home is important to me. As an artist/brand, I’m most proud of being self-made.
In the beauty industry, there has always been a very catty vibe. I have wanted to change the dynamic around that since I started AMArtistry (Abigail Marie Artistry). I think as women, it’s important to stick together, but also as the industry professional to collaborate over competing against one another. There is enough room at the table for everyone, so why not help each other along the way.
Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
First and foremost, it’s extremely important to always be willing to learn as an individual and an artist. I wouldn’t be the professional or person that I am today without my mentors. I have several. Find your tribe, because those are the people that will push you and help you grow. Find a mentor, who can help you grow professionally and personally. Networking in any industry is what helps you build your brand and its awareness. It can also push and inspire you personally and professionally in multiple ways. I also think its important if you are being mentored, to mentor someone else as well.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 8152386886
- Email: glam.amarie1@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabigailmarie
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/abigailmarieartistry
- Other: www.academyprohair.com
Image Credit:
Leah Lewis Photography, Hair by KTP – RefleKTion Salon @ktp137, Hair by Dina Lindquist- Bella 360 Salon & Spa, Model: Miranda Trevino, Hair by @hairbyievab
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