Today we’d like to introduce you to Dolores Villanueva.
Dolores, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I have always had the passion to make women feel beautiful and confident.
As a teen, I always did makeup for friends and family. The first time I saw Kevin Aucoin on Ophra’s show, I ran out and bought “Making Faces” studied and practiced just for fun. Never in my wild dreams did I ever think I would become a makeup artist. After we moved to Dallas from California in 2006 selling Mary Kay cosmetics seemed to be a good way to make some cash. I did not even think of the artistry involved. My peers quickly supported me and encouraged me as a makeup artist. Practicing and playing with different skin tones, textures and colors gave me the confidence to start hustling and booking weddings. I would visit different wedding gown shops and offer to do complementary makeup on the weekends they had their trunk shows. I started booking weddings. Shortly after that, I got a part-time job at a high-end salon in Highland Park Village where I have made my base for the last 7.5 yrs. I also went back to school with the support of my husband and family to get my esthetics license. Building a clientele has taken me a while and it’s been tough. As an artist, you have to show clients why your services are valuable and deliver that value on a consistent basis.
Has it been a smooth road?
It has definitely not been a smooth road to becoming a makeup artist. When you have so many makeup counters that will do makeup for “ free”, you as a makeup artist have to show the value of your work. It’s a service, you don’t have to buy a minimum of anything, you are paying for the service. If you work on your artistry they will come to you and stay.
As an artist, you have to stay true to your aesthetic. The clients that come to me want to look polished and beautiful but still look like themselves. Listen to your client, this will help you deliver work that she will rebook for. I would also say study your craft. Don’t think you know it all. Know your weaknesses and work on them. I love going to makeup shows and classes and learn from other professionals that are willing to share their knowledge and talent. Study the basics of symmetry, sculpting, highlighting, color theory is HUGE. Nothing is less forgiving than applying the wrong color foundation to a client. Study and practice, practice, practice. Take pride in your tools and your kit, make sure it’s always clean and sanitized.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into Makeup Artist/Aesthetician story. Tell us more about the business.
Being a makeup artist and aesthetician, I carry the wisdom of skincare that leads to a natural aesthetic. As an aesthetician, I focus on everyday skincare with a simple regimen knowing when clients skin looks great their makeup will look even better. I think women want to feel beautiful and confident with their makeup but still look like themselves. Makeup should never cover one’s natural beauty but instead should enhance their best features. I am known for a flawless fresh and dewy skin. Placing emphasis on the eyes is always key for me. My other love is brow grooming, brows frame the face and I prefers a fuller well-groomed brow that is not overly done. If you want brows that are closer to what the Lord gave you and groomed, then come see me and I will get you started on “eyebrow rehab”.
To me, the difference between any technician is in the details. I set my self apart by paying attention to details that often get a loss. Details that will elevate your artistry and set you apart from others. Go above and beyond and for God’s sake, listen to what the client is asking for. Always do consultations and do clarify to clients if their expectations are not realistic and explain why. Be honest, they will appreciate that.
Do you have any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general? What has worked well for you?
For me working in a salon, I made sure I worked closely with colorist and stylist. Show them how your services can play a part in enhancing the overall aesthetic of the client. That being said, you better make sure you are worthy of those referrals and introductions. Be professional, show up early, be prepared. No excuses! SANITATION is huge. Don’t show up to do makeup for a client with dirty makeup and dirty brushes.
Get involve with other artist and ask for help, listen. Take what you learn to put your twist to it and grow.
Lastly, I also have to say using Instagram in the last year and a half has allowed me to stay connected with clients and meet new ones. Show your work and a bit of your personality. I take my work very seriously but I don’t take my self too seriously.
Contact Info:
- Email: dolorren@gmail.com
- Instagram: Artistdoloresv
Image Credit:
@aprylannphoto, @larrysengbush, @pamelavasko, @tonysalle, @burhandon, @hairbykylarae
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