We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Oxana Americana. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Oxana below.
Oxana, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?
In 2014, I made the pivotal decision to advance my career by leaving my full-time position as a makeup artist with a renowned brand. While the prospect of transitioning to freelance work was daunting, it ultimately proved to be a rewarding choice. To prepare for this leap, I ensured I had a strong portfolio and secured contracts with several high-profile clients. This led to the opening of my first studio, where I not only worked with clients but also hosted masterclasses. Shortly thereafter, I expanded my skill set by studying hairstyling. Although the journey was filled with both challenges and triumphs, I am grateful for the courage to take that initial step, as it has shaped my career and brought me to where I am today. I remain thankful for all the experiences, both the successes and the obstacles.
Oxana, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am a USA-based professional makeup artist, hairstylist, and beauty educator with over 13 years of experience in the beauty industry. After studying makeup and hairstyling in Moscow and Seattle, I built a diverse portfolio, working with celebrity clients and contributing to editorial photography, commercials, music videos, fashion shows, and beauty brand masterclasses for companies like Givenchy, MAC Cosmetics, Kevin Murphy and Jane Iredale. In 2016, I became the winner of Givenchy Beauty Club competition.
I specialize in providing makeup and hairstyling services for weddings, events, and commercial shoots, along with offering masterclasses for both professionals and individuals. I’m passionate about educating others, offering courses ranging from beginner to advanced levels. My work, especially with brides, focuses on enhancing natural beauty with an elegant and personalized approach. Clients appreciate my attention to detail, professionalism, and friendly service.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My creative journey is driven by a passion for helping women feel more confident by enhancing their natural beauty. I take great pride in highlighting each individual’s unique features, allowing them to feel their best and exude confidence. My goal is always to create a look that feels authentic and empowering, bringing out the inner beauty of every client I work with.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
In recent years, I focused on blogging and collaborating with makeup and hairstyling brands, attending events and expanding my industry presence. However, after moving back to the United States, I decided to pivot towards specializing in the wedding industry. While I had already worked at large weddings in Moscow, I recognized that the wedding market in Washington state is even more expansive and offers greater financial opportunities. This shift allowed me to further refine my expertise and build a thriving business in a sector with significant growth potential.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.oamericana.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oxana_americana
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oxana-americana-9925662b9?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app
Image Credits
Ilona Shevchenko, Natali Solnechnaya, Alex Nazarov, Enisey Abramov