Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in beauty and cosmetics but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lyndsey Caudilla, Founder of Lyndsey Ariel Makeup, located in Miami, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is Lyndsey Ariel Makeup, a full-service makeup artistry company. My team and I provide in-studio and on-site appointments with services ranging from a bridal, special occasions, photoshoots, film & tv, and makeup lessons. A large majority of my customers are usually brides-to-be and makeup lessons clients.
Tell us about yourself
I have always been into arts and especially painting as a young child. My love for fashion and beauty grew as I got older. I went to school for Fashion Design, Marketing, and Fashion Merchandising. While in school, I began experimenting with makeup looks on myself. I was approached by a friend to help out with her and her models for an upcoming fashion show. I had never done makeup before on anyone else but myself, so I was hesitant and nervous but wanted to help out my friend. I ran out to the drug store, bought a bunch of foundation colors and makeup, and figured it all out on the fly for the fitting and rehearsal. On the day of the show, I executed the looks we agreed on for her models. I wanted my friend to have as much credibility as possible, so I had business cards made quickly. I passed them out that day; as they say, "fake it til you make it." I was booked for my first photoshoot ever for that same weekend by a photographer I had met at the show. I was soon booked solid until I moved to NYC for my internship. Once I got to NYC, I began to work weddings and makeup gigs on the side, and the rest is history!
Every day, what motivates me is seeing the looks on my client's faces when we're done with an appointment or a lesson. It brings me great joy to help people feel great about themselves, give them a confidence boost, and help them learn skills they can take with them and use for their lifetime.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is becoming a top sought-after bridal makeup artist in Brooklyn & New York City. I worked very hard to create a name for myself, an excellent team, and loyal clientele.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things about being a business owner is balancing life and work. I learned not to overextend myself and create boundaries and actual working hours (and stick to them!).
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Learn and study your craft. Never stop learning and keep on top of new trends, tools, services, and techniques.
- Don't be afraid to work for free. As I was starting, I had no portfolio and no contacts. Working and assisting other makeup artists, hairstylists, and photographers allowed me to get great work for my portfolio and make long-lasting connections in the industry.
- Be authentic to yourself. Be yourself. It will make your clients come to you and not a competitor.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I'm new to South Florida, even though I am a Florida native! I’ve spent the last 14 years in NYC and I had a makeup studio for the past 9 years based in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. I am starting from scratch again here, and I'm very excited (& nervous) to start all over again!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.lyndseyarielmakeup.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LyndseyArielMUA/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lyndseyariel/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyndseyarielcaudilla/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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