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

Deja, appreciate you joining us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

GOD DID! On a serious note, God truly. It’s actually very fascinating to look back and see how God has already planted seeds in your life. I was not even realizing that he would place me in the position. Growing up, I loved watching YouTube videos. I watched Makeup Gurus such as Aaliyah Jay, Tymetheinfamous , and Ivyleaguestyles. While I watched them, I day dreamed about being in their shoes. Growing up in a challenging environment, I’ve doubted myself and always told myself no. I’d always tell myself that I’m not strong or smart enough. I did not think this would work out in my favor, but God really showed me otherwise. God sent someone to push me and that someone is a close friend til this day. She seen light in me and she has been someone I can trust with my dream. Her reassurance and positive messages brought fourth the confidence I needed to push forward. She would tell me how I was better than my favorite makeup artist. It is very important to have or being in the right circle or friends. You have to guard your dream and work towards it diligently. My friend allowed me to practice doing makeup on her. Those days, I worked and practiced even harder, and it was up from there! I began to post my content on social media platforms such as Instagram, and Snapchat. Ultimately, God was right. The things I thought were impossible, became possible more and more each day.

Deja, 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?

First off and most importantly, I am a woman of God. I am light. I’m a makeup artist and a certified esthetician. I try not to label myself because I have many different unique talents and roles. There is a lot to uncover about me, but since we do not have that kind of time, I am going to get straight to the point. I indeed have a strong passion for makeup , but I also have a passion for making clients positively change how they view themselves. My artistry is a portion of the process that I’m doing. When I am able to mentally touch my clients, I know that each person is leaving with a piece of me. I hope that my words of encouragement and my makeup talents can lift each and every one of my clients up. With a touch of my makeup brushes, clients gain a sense of confidence and self esteem that they may have never had before they sat in my chair, and that’s one of my goals when working. It is deeper than just me. I do this to positively uplift spirits and brighten the days of my clients.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

Although I know it is okay to be afraid sometimes, but I honestly had to unlearn how to become so fearful. I held fear so close to my heart that it slowed me down from chasing my dreams. As I was attending Fort Valley State University, majoring undecided , I would always pray and ask God, “What is my purpose?” Or “What should I really be doing?”. God’s exact words were, “It is already there.” After meditating on what that meant to me, it eventually hit me like a ton of bricks. Makeup. This entire time, God was prepping and molding me. The only thing that was stopping me from pursing it head on was fear. Once I understood that fear is not from God, and that it is only sent from the enemy, I quickly realized that I was not operating or working in my Godly power. Instead, I was operating under the enemy’s kingdom. It took a while for me to reach a full understanding, but I had to really think about what is good and what God said about me. Once I removed the distractions and whatever else was hindering me, it became easier for me to move forward.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

I believe and always tell people that if you are 100% authentic and genuine within yourself, the people will soon come. People want to hear your voice and want to know your story. Yes, all the glitz and glams are cute, but they want to know and see the real nitty gritty. They want to see not only the good, but the bad as well, and the ups and downs. Often times, social media tried to paint a picture that everything is perfect. I realized that I get the most interactions when I’m literally just being authentically me, without sugarcoating and filters. Be genuine and true to yourself.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: _dejathelemaque
• Facebook: MaqueBeaute
• Youtube: Deja Thelemaque