Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley St Flavin.
Hi Ashley, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
When I was in high school, I started doing makeup for my classmates so I could afford the things I wanted, since I never had a traditional job. At the time, I didn’t think makeup would turn into a long-term career, so when I went to college I chose to major in fashion merchandising. During my studies, I also worked as a wardrobe stylist assistant, which gave me the opportunity to be behind the scenes at red carpet events and even New York Fashion Week. While those experiences were exciting, I eventually realized that I didn’t fully feel aligned with that path.
I found my way back to makeup after a close friend encouraged me to take it more seriously. I took her advice, saved up to enroll in a professional makeup course, and that decision ultimately became the beginning of Aluxxe.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road, but I believe challenges are part of what makes the journey meaningful. One of the biggest struggles in the beauty industry is learning how to balance your professional life with your personal life.
When I first started, I was working almost every day because I was determined to reach certain financial goals. There were many nights where I stayed in my studio until midnight just to make sure I earned enough to cover my monthly expenses. Weekends — when most people were spending time with friends and family — were usually my busiest workdays, so I was almost always working.
Now that I’ve built a larger clientele and have more experience, I’ve learned the importance of time management and setting boundaries. I remind myself that it’s okay to take time to reset, because maintaining balance is what allows you to stay creative and continue growing in this industry.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a professional makeup artist specializing in luxury soft glam, bridal, editorial, and celebrity makeup. I’m known for creating polished, skin-focused looks that still feel elevated and camera ready while enhancing my clients’ natural features rather than masking them. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with incredible clients across red carpets, television, and special events, while also building a strong everyday clientele through my studio services and 1-on-1 makeup lessons.
What I’m most proud of is building my brand from the ground up and watching it grow into a business that not only serves clients but also educates and empowers people to feel confident doing their own makeup. I think what really sets me apart is my attention to detail, professionalism, and the experience I create for each client. For me, it’s not just about the final look it’s about making sure every person who sits in my chair feels confident, comfortable, and elevated when they leave.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
One thing I always tell people is to study your target market and figure out what you can do to truly stand out. I learned that in college, and I’ve carried that mindset with me in every business venture I’ve pursued. If you’re going to start something, don’t halfway do it — put your full effort into it. Take your time, plan intentionally, and be clear about what you want and how you plan to execute it.
Something I also wish I knew earlier is that growth takes time, and you don’t have to rush the process. In the beginning, I felt like I had to say yes to everything and work nonstop just to prove myself, but over time I realized that building a strong brand is really about consistency, professionalism, and relationships.
I also learned how important boundaries, pricing your worth, and proper time management are. Once I started valuing my time and my work, not only did my business grow, but the quality of my clients and opportunities grew as well.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://aluxxemakeup.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aluxxe__/?hl=en
- Other: https://aluxxe.as.me/schedule/ec38c501
