May 17, 2017

Meet Nora Gao of Nora Gao Makeup and Design in Allen

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nora Gao.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I always enjoy and love makeup. When I was in 7th grade, my parents will give me $3 every day for lunch, but I always save that money to buy a new eyeliner or mascara. Ever since I graduated high school, I been doing some freelance for family and friends. My parents wants me to have a college degree, so I choose a major that’s most close to makeup, which is fashion design. Then I moved LA after I finish my college. And that’s when I went to an actual makeup school to get professional trained. I start doing a lot of film, TV, and shows. Also I was working under a studio for weddings. Few years ago, I went to Korea get advance training for Asian makeup. That’s when I learn microblading and micro pigmentation. Now I just moved back to Texas to be closer with my family. Same Time starting my own business.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It’s quite nice doing what I love to do, it’s not a bad industry, and I’m always up for new challenges, and of course it’s never easy. My most struggle is since not many people knows me in the area, I have to work my way up. Also most of people don’t really understand that makeup is only enhance your beauty, not change your face structure. I find myself repeating to most of the clients.

Nora Gao Makeup & design – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I specialize in makeup, semi-permanent cosmetics. I am very proud the company. Every clients I have are 100% love my work, and they are very happy with their makeover results. They also refer a lot of their friend to me. I am very thankful for that. The reason I think that made me different than other is 1. I been in the industry for a while now, I can say I am well know and understand about this industry. 2. This is not only my job, it’s my passion. 3. My work is very detail and glamorous, and I listen to what client wants. 4. I’m doing not only makeup, but semi-permanent cosmetics. I have variety of different angle and taste of beauty. Most important thing is I was trained in the US, also Asia. I know both American and Asian style.

What is “success” or “successful” for you?
My success is the satisfaction of every clients. You have to know listen to what clients want and make sure you do what’s right for them, and what makes them happy. I don’t really have a particular criteria. Everybody is different. You just have to know what’s best for each one of them. Also social etiquette. For example, when u work with actress, you need to know what you need to speak up, what’s not. Same thing with other clients. You kind of need to learn and know when or what to say.

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