Today we’d like to introduce you to Ari Jay
Hi Ari, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I like to say entrepreneurship chose me. I became a mom at the age of 16 so it was difficult to work a regular 9-5 due to not being able to afford childcare. I always found myself trying to work around my childs school schedule and that didn’t last very long at all. I begin to create ways to earn money and be a mom on my own time. I never really knew what an entrepreneur was I just knew I wanted to work for myself. I started my beauty journey at the age of 12 being influenced by icons such as Kelis, Ru Paul, and the late great Madam CJ Walker. In high school I begin to express myself through various hairstyles and changing my hair color frequently. After graduating high school I enrolled into Cosmetology school where I would learn the basics of hair and makeup. Through out the years I became a part time stylist however I never felt fulfilled I always would leave with the feeling of wanting to do more. In 2017 I got my makeup done professionally and I’ll never forget what I felt when I looked in the mirror. From that moment I knew EXACTLY what I wanted to contribute to this world. The years 2017-2019 I immersed myself in the world of makeup watching every YouTube video, buying every product on the shelf, and even taking a makeup class to hone my skills. By 2019 I felt confident enough to provide services to the public and I’ve been slaying faces ever since. Since starting my journey as a professional makeup artist I’ve participated in DC Fashion Week, traveled to various destinations for makeup services and became a licensed esthetician. I now have my own suite where I provide makeup services and host makeup classes. I also provide skincare services while educating the importance of skin preservation as a Esthetician Instructor.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not at all been easy being an entrepreneur. Learning color match and undertones. Trying to keep up with trends on social media. Learning what to do in the slow months. Building my clientele in one location only to relocate to the DMV and having to start over. It’s hard gaining trust from new clients you really have to put your money where your mouth is. Not only the clientele aspect but also learning how to really run a business and actually be successful at it. Running a business isn’t something that’s taught so I had to learn that on my own and to be honest I’m still learning.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a makeup artist and Esthetician Instructor. I create makeup looks tailored to each individual vibe and face structure so no one ever gets the same look. I specialize in soft and full glams. I’ll like to say I’m known for staying true to the craft and not over doing it when it comes to applying makeup. I have a signature look where I use a white liner in the waterline that gives a doll/Betty boop look. Im most proud of just having the confidence to keep going and not giving up. Im proud of myself for actually finding something I enjoy and love doing. The thing that sets me apart from others is really having integrity. A lot of people throw integrity out the window when it comes to running a business I treat people how I would like to be treated if I were a paying customer.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
you can always follow my instagram @ makeupwith.arii or just shoot me an email (arijaycollection@gmail.com) that’s actually the quickest way to get in touch with me
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/listing/1667860942/makeup-with-ari-ebook
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makeupwith.arii/profilecard/?igsh=ZDlsYWVnbThxbmJq
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@arisoiconic
