We recently connected with Camryn Gaulden and have shared our conversation below.
Camryn, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear the story of how you went from this being just an idea to making it into something real.
As a kid, I always knew the typical office job wasn’t for me. I was way too creative to spend my days behind a desk staring at a screen. When I discovered makeup as a hobby, I had a wild thought: Could this actually become a career?
I decided to find out. Still in high school with no formal training, I dove into YouTube tutorials, teaching myself how to recreate different looks. At just 15, I started a small makeup business with a friend. We booked clients through word-of-mouth and basic Google listings—and that’s how it all began.
Starting a business is never easy, especially at that age. Or really at any age. But when you’re passionate about what you do, it doesn’t feel like work. As I honed my craft, I also had to learn the other side of the business—bookkeeping, client communication, and marketing. Networking, staying curious, and constantly asking questions helped me grow in ways I never imagined.
A few years later, I attended Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry, where I earned both my makeup certification and esthetician’s license. But something I quickly learned: paying for an education doesn’t guarantee success. It takes tenacity, consistency, and the courage to reach out to other artists—whether to learn from them, assist them, or just get your foot in the door. That experience is priceless.
Starting a business also comes with real financial challenges. From building a professional kit stocked with high-quality (and often expensive) makeup to investing in advertising, scheduling platforms, and client booking systems—those startup costs add up quickly. One of the best decisions I made was getting a job at my local Sephora. It gave me hands-on experience, expanded my product knowledge, and allowed me to use my license in a professional retail setting. Plus, the employee discount on top beauty brands helped me build my kit without breaking the bank.
Over the past 10 years of honing my craft, I’ve been blessed with incredible opportunities—from working as a stylist for Patricia Field’s line at Miami Fashion Week and award winning theatrical performances to contributing to local commercials, and most memorably, helping countless brides and bridesmaids look and feel their absolute best on their big day.
Each day, I remind myself that I may be just one person in a vast world, but I was created by a big God to create. Through my work, I’ve been given the amazing privilege to bring light, love, and confidence to every person who sits in my chair.
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?
Hi! I’m Camryn—though most people call me Cami. I’m a licensed esthetician, professional makeup artist, and hairstylist originally from sunny Lutz, Florida, now based in Macon, Georgia.
I specialize in on-location bridal and event makeup, soft glam hairstyling, special effects makeup, body painting, and personalized lessons. Whether it’s a wedding day, a creative shoot, or just a confidence boost, I’m passionate about helping people feel like the most elevated version of themselves.
My signature style is soft glam—makeup that enhances your natural beauty without masking it. I truly believe that makeup should feel like you, just with a little extra glow.
When I’m not working with clients, you can find me spending time with my husband Josh and our sweet pup Diesel. 🧡
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My goal is to work as a full-time makeup artist. Right now, I’m still juggling a few part-time jobs to support my income as I rebuild my client base in a new state. Starting over after relocating is never easy, but it’s part of the journey—and I’m committed to growing my business and serving my new community with the same passion and care I’ve always had.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
Over the past six years, I’ve moved 12 times across four cities and two states. Each move challenged me to adapt, pivot, and stay flexible—especially when it came to running and growing my business. It taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and how to rebuild from the ground up while staying focused on my passion.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.georgiamakeupartist.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/painted_in_peaches?igsh=OGduOXQ1MWZ6NGE0&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1A7REZjbVz/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Image Credits
Photographers:
C Hope photography
@c_hope_photography
Sandi Michelle Photography
@sandimichellephotography