What's Behind the Glamour?

Hey Guys, 

I have been very busy this week working on a number of exciting projects. On Thursday I gave mini make overs at the Bloggers Love event at The Penthouse to promote luxury jewellery brand Adourable. This event allowed me to network with a range of bloggers, fashionistas, and other like minded beauty addicts. All of the people I met were lovely, including X Factor group Miss Dynamix. I was lucky enough to do make up on SeSe, and all the girls in the group were as down to earth and bubbly in person as on X Factor. 

My model for the day-
Stella, amazing girl inside and out
Photography and editing by:
Rosie-Anne Footitt

Later on in the week I worked as a backstage dresser for fashion shows at a wedding exhibition. This for me was a whole different ball game. The outfits were glamourous, the models were beautiful and all of the backstage team worked together really well to make the show as much of a hit as we could. 

This is where the reality sunk in, the hard work behind a glamourous industry which I have never seen before. There are many different types of personality, but the biggest shock I got was that of high profile workers who talked down to others. My day to day profession involves working to help others, and the whole team including directors and executives have always worked together to achieve this. 

Male Models: Not just a pretty face
Photography and editing by:
Rosie-Anne Footitt

I met a varied range of personalities, it would be bias for me to range my whole experience on the selected few. I met some lovely stylists and dressers, who I hope to keep in contact with in future, it did not feel like I had known them for only a day. The models (some of which are very high profile) were lovely and friendly. I have to admit my perception of male models has always been quite negative, and the two working in the show mingled with all of the backstage team, helped us with some of the manual labour and changed my view on this completely, showing so much more than just a pretty face!  I met the lovely Sunita who represented Ekta Solanki, and represented the brand well with enough grace for me to want to shout about them from the rooftops. 

I did not get the same vibe from all of the representatives and organisers (who shall remain unnamed). I really feel sorry for those who feel the need to use their "status" in the industry to make newcomers feel unwelcome, or unnecessary. As opinionated as I am, I have always been taught to give others the same respect I would expect.

In short I think the day changed my one way perception on some areas, but also verified some of the instincts I have had. I learnt that it is extemely important to treat all individuals you are working with how you would like to be treated, especially in an industry where you will come across them in the future... 

It's part of the industry, but does that make it right? 

K xx 

Please feel free to post any skin care tips, products or comments you may have which could benefit others. 

Is The Beauty Industry Too Crowded?

Hi All, 

I have had a busy few weeks, and it has given me a lot of time to think about the beauty industry.  I will today be writing about my latest adventure, my first step into becoming a hair and make up professional; after taking a course with Mink make up school in London. I took a 5 day intensive course, focusing on becoming  a bridal hair and make up artist; as this is where I feel my future interest lies. 

I learnt a lot about the reality of the job, as well as much theoretical knowledge which I had not gained before. In a practical aspect I felt my largest accomplishment was the ability to practise on different skin tones/types and mastering blending, highlighting and contouring techniques. There is plenty you can teach yourself about make up, but the industry is one thing you can only prepare yourself for through experience. 

Make up above done by myself
during training at Mink London.

Through the duration of my course I had two amazing teachers, with much experience and knowledge within their particular fields. Both had a very different teaching style, however I feel I have taken back valuable tips and knowledge from each of them. My class consisted of 8 other females who have as much enthusiasm and motivation as myself to make a career of themselves in hair and beauty. i am happy to say as well as networking, I also gained friends  who I will stay in touch with in future.

Although beauty is an industry sector I have always loved, I do have a regular 9-5 day job which I aim to continue. For me make up has always been fun, and its something I wanted to develop further from being a hobby. 

With beauty being a fast growing industry, there is a high level of competition. Even coming from such a small village there are 4 hair salons and and 3 beauty salons. On my Facebook alone I have 7 make up artists/enthusiasts who are trying to break into the industry. 

Knowing the high level of competition makes it difficult, but I have come to terms with the fact that I am in this for my own level of enjoyment and progression. For me hair and make up is about making the most of somebody’s existing features and highlighting each their beauty for any special occasion. It is important to take pride in each client individually, and focus on what will work best for the individual in front of you. The most important part is to make clients feel comfortable, and not force your own ideas or opinions onto them. 

I have come to the realisation that this is not a cheap hobby. For me being a hair and make up artist is less about the income, and more about furthering my interest.  Starting up a kit, and your own business requires much dedication, time and also money. To keep up with competition and please clients certain branded items might be necessary. Although I have discovered a range of good quality and cheaper brands, clients may never have heard of these and will want recognised brands and products to be used on them. 

This is just my first step, but I hope its the beginning of a successful journey. I shall be keeping you all up to date with my progress, and the products I will be adding to my professional kit. 

I would love to know the opinions of my readers :

Is the beauty industry overcrowded? 

Please feel free to post any skin care tips, products or comments you may have which could benefit others.