Today we’d like to introduce you to JaNae Strickland.
Hi JaNae, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My love for makeup started when I was a child, around middle school age. My grandmother, who I called Grandmiss, would let me play in her makeup and gradually teach me different techniques. Those moments sparked my passion for beauty, and I quickly fell in love with everything about makeup—especially blush. As I got older, I became the go-to person for family and friends, helping my cousins with their makeup and assisting with pamper parties. I loved seeing how makeup could enhance someone’s confidence and make them feel beautiful without changing who they were.
After graduating, I moved from Kansas City, Ks to Texas and eventually earned my esthetician license after leaving Kansas State University. Beauty school helped me realize that my passion went beyond makeup—I wanted to understand skin and learn how to keep it healthy while enhancing a woman’s natural beauty. What began as a childhood passion has grown into a career that has allowed me to work in bridal beauty, fashion, editorial, film, and education. Today, through Blushn’B Factory, my goal is to create an elevated beauty experience where women feel confident, empowered, and beautiful in their own skin.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I wouldn’t say it has been a smooth road, but every challenge has helped shape me into the artist and business owner I am today. Like anything you’re building, there are obstacles along the way. Makeup is a craft that requires constant growth, and the more faces you touch, the more your skills, confidence, and techniques evolve. Being self-taught meant that I had to be willing to step into the unknown, make mistakes, learn from them, and continue improving.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that talent alone isn’t enough. Networking, building relationships, and simply showing up consistently are essential in this industry. Some of my greatest opportunities came from putting myself in rooms where I didn’t know anyone and being willing to learn. Every client, class, fashion show, and production has taught me something valuable, and I believe staying teachable has been one of the keys to my growth and success.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in bridal, runway, and film makeup, with bridal being my primary focus. I am known for creating soft, timeless, elevated looks that enhance a client’s natural features rather than overpower them. My goal is always to create makeup that photographs beautifully, lasts throughout the day, and still feels like the client when they look in the mirror. I also incorporate color theory and skin preparation into every service to ensure the final result complements the client’s skin tone, undertones, and overall vision.
What I am most proud of is building Blushn’B Factory. What started as a passion for makeup has grown into a brand that represents beauty, confidence, education, and genuine connection. Every client, class, fashion show, wedding, and opportunity has helped shape the business into what it is today. As an entrepreneur, there have been challenges along the way, but seeing my vision come to life and knowing that I’ve created an experience that makes women feel beautiful and confident is incredibly rewarding.
I believe what sets me apart is my combination of makeup artistry and skincare knowledge as a licensed esthetician. I understand how makeup performs under different lighting, on camera, and in real-life settings, which allows me to customize every application. Beyond the makeup itself, I focus on listening to my clients and creating an experience where they feel seen, heard, and cared for. My goal is always to enhance what is already there, helping each person feel like the best version of themselves rather than someone completely different.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
One of the best pieces of advice I can give is to focus on building genuine relationships rather than just looking for opportunities. Early in my career, I did a lot of unpaid work to gain experience, build my portfolio, and get in the right rooms. Those experiences helped me establish relationships that I still value today. Over time, those same people began referring clients to me, recommending me for projects, and mentioning my name in rooms I wasn’t even in. Many of the opportunities I’ve received have come from the trust I’ve built with others throughout my journey.
I’ve also never been afraid to reach out to people I admire. Whether through social media, email, or in person, I’ve introduced myself and offered my services to support their brand or project. Often, those connections started small and grew into long-term professional relationships. While I never had a formal mentor in the beauty industry, I’ve learned so much from the people around me—especially creatives and business owners in fashion, beauty, and other industries. Their advice, support, and perspective have played a huge role in helping me grow my business. My biggest advice is to show up, stay consistent, be willing to serve, and nurture the relationships you build along the way.
Pricing:
- Blushn’B Glam Experience $145
- Bridal Trial $160
- Travel Glam Experience $250
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.blushinbfactory.com
- Instagram: @blushnb_mua & @theblushnbhouse
