Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Linda Livernois. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Linda , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?

I had always wanted to build a makeup/artistry business focused mainly on bridal due to Charlottesville being a wedding destination. I started by doing weddings on the weekends while working a 9-5. After six months I was let go from my job and decided in that moment I was self employed. The connections I made early on with planners and photographers really helped keep clients reaching out and kept me booked. Building a reputation of being good at what I do but also fun and easy to work with has been the greatest contributor to being successful in the wedding business.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

The question, “so how did you get started in makeup?” comes up all the time when I’m working. Unlike a lot of other careers where there is a clear cut path, makeup is a different world. When I was 10 I stole my mom’s makeup bag and did all my friends makeup (True Story!) I also got caught, I don’t remember getting in trouble, though. As a child I was just always fascinated by glamour. Old movies and magazines and that type of imagery I was obsessed with and still am.
I started Rouge 9 in 2013 after a full career of working in the cosmetics industry for different brands, mostly Lancome and Chanel. When I started the makeup studio I wanted to create a place where someone could come and have there makeup done in a private setting, not sitting in the middle of a busy store. Where it could feel more like a private luxury and fun experience. Where there was no pressure to purchase products but just pay for the service they are getting. I also offer lessons, which again is focused on helping you develop artistry skills and feel empowered and confident doing your own makeup. I make product recommendations, of course, but it focused on artistry not pushing product.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

Funny enough I currently a working on a bit of a pivot. I think covid taught all of us to think differently about what we are doing or not doing in business. When covid hit my entire spring and summer session were gone. I’m currently working on a content project to share what I do in studio with a larger audience. The challenge is learning how to do things you have no idea how to do or find the right people to help you. It is that whole thing of operating outside your comfort zone, it is truly where growth lives.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

I have learned that not everyone is your client and that is ok. When you find yourself working with a client that does not place value on what you do its ok to walk away. I love what I do so much and am really passionate about it and when I have been in a situation where someone is stealing my joy for what I do away from me it is just not worth it. Your people will find you

Contact Info:

• Website: https://rouge9.com
• Instagram: @rouge9makeup
• Facebook: rouge9 makeup studio

Image Credits

Sera Petras for profile picture
Ashley Cox Photograpy for others