Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexandria Singleton-smith

Hi Alexandria, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.

I grew up in Sacramento, California, with my parents and two older brothers. My passion for makeup began in childhood when I would sneak into my mother’s Mary Kay bag to play with her samples. This interest led me to start doing makeup for my classmates and friends at school events.

As a young adult, I worked weekdays at my Uncle Cedric Singleton’s record label, Black Market Records, where I served as an office administrator and also handled hair and makeup for video shoots, album covers, and movies. I even appeared in music videos. This experience led to a modeling agency discovering me, and I began doing print modeling. On weekends, I apprenticed at a friend’s salon, further developing my hair and makeup skills.

Coming from a family with a strong legacy in the entertainment industry, including my father Anthony and uncles Cedric and the late John Singleton, I decided to follow in their footsteps. I started my YouTube channel, Mua.Alexandria, and am currently working on launching my own makeup line.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

The road hasn’t always been smooth. Some of the struggles I’ve faced include balancing multiple responsibilities while trying to build my career. Working full-time at my uncle’s record label while doing hair and makeup for shoots and modeling was challenging. Additionally, breaking into the competitive beauty industry required persistence and resilience. There were times when I doubted my abilities, faced rejection, and had to navigate financial uncertainties. Despite these obstacles, my passion for makeup and support from my family kept me motivated and focused on my goals.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?

As a makeup influencer, I create content that ranges from everyday makeup tutorials to bold, avant-garde looks. I specialize in creating versatile and inclusive makeup looks that cater to a diverse audience, ensuring everyone feels represented and inspired.

I’m known for my detailed tutorials, product reviews, and the ability to transform makeup into a form of art. My community appreciates my honest reviews and the creative yet accessible techniques I share. I’m most proud of my ability to inspire confidence and creativity in my followers, empowering them to express themselves through makeup.

What sets me apart is my commitment to inclusivity and authenticity. I make it a point to feature products from brands that cater to all skin tones and types. Additionally, I engage with my followers regularly, valuing their feedback and creating content that resonates with their needs and interests.

Creating a positive and inclusive space where everyone feels welcome and beautiful is my top priority, and I’m always striving to push the boundaries of creativity in the beauty industry.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?

Absolutely, there are several resources that have been invaluable to me both in my professional life and personal growth:

1. **Apps**:
– **Canva**: For designing social media posts and marketing materials.
– **Trello**: To organize projects and manage my workflow.
– **Instagram**: Not only for promoting my work but also for staying updated with beauty trends and connecting with other professionals in the industry.

2. **Books**:
– **”Making Faces” by Kevyn Aucoin**: A fantastic guide to makeup artistry from one of the greats.
– **”Girlboss” by Sophia Amoruso**: For entrepreneurial inspiration and motivation.
– **”The Beauty of Color” by Iman**: A great resource on makeup techniques for diverse skin tones.

3. **Podcasts**:
– **”The Beauty Brains”**: Offers scientific insights into the beauty industry.
– **”Beyond the Beauty with Bobbi Brown”**: Provides in-depth conversations with beauty industry experts.
– **”How I Built This”**: By NPR, featuring stories behind successful businesses and entrepreneurs.

4. **Blogs**:
– **Into The Gloss**: For beauty tips, product reviews, and industry news.
– **Temptalia**: Known for thorough and honest makeup product reviews.

These resources have helped me stay informed, inspired, and organized, allowing me to continuously improve my skills and stay on top of industry trends.

Contact Info:

• Website: [email protected]
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mua.alexandria/
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@mua.alexandria
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@mua.alexandria