Today we’d like to introduce you to Tiffany Cataldo.
Tiffany, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’ve had a passion for makeup since I was young. When I finished high school, I went straight to cosmetology school after the birth of my son. I graduated and got my cosmetology license at the age of 19. I immediately started working in salons, assisting and doing hair and makeup, around the city. A couple of years ago, I got diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome and decided to take a break from the industry for a while. When my sister decided to go to aesthetician school, it sparked the fire inside me once again but this time I only wanted to do makeup. I decided to hunt for a makeup artist position but I didn’t want to go in to retail so something like MAC or Sephora didn’t appeal to me. I was lucky enough to find an angency that was soon opening up the market in Boston and was lucky enough to become a freelance artist for them. My sister and I decided to go into business together and obtained a business license for Wicked Makeup. Soon after my sister decided to pursue other options other than makeup, so I became the sole proprietor. I was lucky enough to sign a contract with a second agency and soon after began booking my own gigs. I started a website, ordered business cards, and created social media accounts. A few months ago, I was signed with a third agency and ever since my business has just been flourishing. I’m currently looking for new ways to expand my business and will be adding spray tanning, permanent makeup, and eyelash extensions to my list of services.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It wasn’t always a smooth road. I’ve always wanted to be a makeup artist and ended up being more of a hairstylist along the way. Once I got carpal tunnel, I removed myself from the industry altogether. It was hard trying to pursue a career in Makeup without any formal “makeup only” training or training in skin care. I definitely took the long road, giving myself a life long injury in a career I wasn’t even passionate about in the meantime. I didn’t want to be 32 years old and selling retail cosmetics in order to pursue my dreams. If you’re just starting your journey don’t give up, even if you end up taking a long way. Find a way to pursue what you love. You’ll be happy that you did.
Please tell us about Wicked Makeup.
I’m a makeup artist that mostly specializes in bridal makeup and airbrush makeup. I do makeup for all occasions though. I am a travel only freelance artist. I go to my clients for trials and the day of the wedding. I like to keep my prices fair and competitive. I never charge my clients a travel fee. I put them above all else because dealing with something as stressful as wedding planning isn’t easy and I like to make sure at least booking the right makeup artist can be.
What advice would you give to someone at the start of her career?
Follow your own path. There isn’t just one way to get to where you want to be. Take the road that’s right for you! And if you don’t get there one way, there’s always another way you can reach your goals. Keep trying till you figure out which way it is.
Pricing:
- Bridal Makeup $125 includes lashes and airbrush
- Bridesmaids $50 optional $15 add-on for airbrush foundation & $10 for lash application
- Event Makeup $75 includes lashes and airbrush
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.wickedmakeupboston.com
- Phone: 781-572-7169
- Email: Tiffany@wickedmakeupboston.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wickedmakeupboston/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/wickedmakeupboston/
Image Credit:
Wicked Makeup
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