Today we’d like to introduce you to Shamona Small.
Shamona, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’ve been in the beauty industry working as a makeup artist for about five years. I got started almost a year after I finished college. I worked initially as an accountant, but I quickly discovered it didn’t fulfill me, and I desired more.
I’ve always felt that whatever job I had, it had to give me purpose and fulfill something inside of me, and while I’ve loved makeup and the physical beauty of it since I was a teenager, I never thought I could make it a profession. I did what I thought was expected of me. I went to college, and got a “real job”. After practicing on my friends for a time, (they looked crazy, but we thought it was great at the time, lol) I felt I was decent enough. I created my social media profile and started promoting myself as a makeup artist with anyone that would allow me to use their face to promote my work.
I loved makeup, but I fell in love with it after experiencing what it did for people. It really is more than makeup. I love the exchange of positive energy, and being afforded the opportunity to fill someone else’s cup. I still can’t believe I actually did it when I think back. I’m an introvert so taking the leap and being vulnerable to people’s opinions about something I’m passionate about was terrifying to me.
Starting out, I collaborated with local photographers and worked at several fashion shows to meet other creatives and just build my network and portfolio. Social media and word of mouth has been a huge blessing to my business since the start. There’s been highs and lows ever since then but it has definitely contributed to my growth as an artist and businesswoman. I credit God and every client that has trusted me when they were in my chair or referred me to someone as the reason I am where I am today.
I’ve been fortunate to connect and work with some celebrities, high profile clients, and see my work on television, which is huge for me. I have a lot I desire to accomplish in the beauty industry and as a businesswoman and I’m excited about my future!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Heck no! I wish it was a smooth road but it definitely isn’t. Creating a paycheck is not for the faint of heart. I’ve questioned if Makeup Artistry is my life’s purpose, and felt discouraged more times than I could count. I’ve been passed on and told it wasn’t possible for me to do it, It’s easy to doubt yourself and feel like you’re not built for this business, but I know personally that if God places a desire in your heart, he is faithful to bring it to fruition.
Every day I have to remind myself what I do isn’t about me. So I feel what I feel and get back in the game. At the end of the day, when I know in my heart I did my best, and I’m honoring God in what I do, and how I do it, I’m good. I know what’s for me is for me, so I’ll continue working towards my purpose.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I specialize in beauty and bridal makeup. Every client when asked what made the book with me, always said my work is clean, timeless, and everyone still looks like themselves. I enjoy helping my clients put their best face forward. I’m most proud of myself for staying true to my heart and staying the course. I’ve proven to myself that I’m stronger than I thought I was, and when you get comfortable being uncomfortable and just do it (whatever it is for you) is when life moves in your favor.
I think my gift of connecting with people and empowering them whether it’s with my words or hands is what sets me apart. I’m easy to talk to, and I love people. I think clients can expect to feel cared for and tended to beyond the brush when they sit in my chair, and I’m grateful to serve them both.
What were you like growing up?
I grew up in Barbados. I love the beach and spent almost every Saturday or Sunday evening there, or with my cousin or friends running outside. Growing up, I was a shy child. I’m introverted but when I got comfortable with you, I was the complete opposite.
However, I’ve always been blunt when speaking about how I felt about something, good or bad, so don’t ask me unless you want the raw truth. lol, I was and is still consider myself a girly girl. I want the makeup, the hair, nails, everything done, all the time.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.shamonasmallmakeup.com
- Phone: 781-786-1887
- Email: makeupbyshamona@gmail.com
- Instagram: @makeupbyshamona
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/makeupbyshamona
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/shamona-small-makeup-boston
Image Credit:
Stanley Desarmes
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