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

Emily, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s kick things off with a hypothetical question – if it were up to you, what would you change about the school or education system to better prepare students for a more fulfilling life and career?

As someone who has always loved the arts over the traditional curriculum courses I feel it would have been beneficial to have all of the jobs that encompass the artistic world be emphasized as valuable careers. Growing up in the northern Virginia area we are very fortunate in comparison to other places in the country when it comes to access to programs for the arts. They did have their spot light at times throughout the school year but when it came down to discussing futures and careers the message was very much “go to the best traditional school you can get into and ideally get a government job”. That isn’t the passion for a lot of people and I feel if they had successful experts in the fields come into to schools to teach and mentor children on how to have a long, fulfilling and lucrative career in the art of their interest it could help students have an actual path and strategy for success. I am not naïve to think that everyone has to love their job but I think it’s definitely possible for more people to be successful in the non stereotypical careers that bring them joy. Highlighting all aspects on how to be thriving in the arts and trades, as they are equally important, would better prepare a happier work force that in turn effects a large part of society.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Emily, I’m a 29 year old northern Virginia native who owns an event Make Up/ Hair and photography business. My love of the arts started at a young age and quickly progressed into a passion by Highschool. I was an editor on my school news paper where I’d give people make overs and document it, 10+ years later and I’m doing the same thing on social media, but it’s my career! While the past couple years my business has been growing rapidly, it wasn’t always this way. After dealing with years of unhealthy habits, relationships and mental health struggles I had to change my whole way of being to get disciplined enough to become successful. I really think what sets me apart from a lot of artist is my empathy and ability to translate someone’s wants into reality I have had so many clients tell me they’ve had their hair and make up done by other artist and they just don’t listen. They give the client what they think would look best and not what the client wants. I always believe its important to educate your client on what will and will not work for them but at the end of the day you need to know how to interpret what they want and remix it to work for them.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

Social media, strategic advertising and partnering with other people in your field. I know we’ve all heard it but it’s the honest truth, social media is an unmatched game changer when it comes to growing your business. Once you’ve worked on your craft enough to showcase it for the world, if you are consistent with posting it, people will notice. I know It sounds laborious to have to create/build/make/do whatever it is your business is and create content on top of it but its free! If you talk to anyone who started a business before social media they will tell you the cost of marketing and how trial and error it can be. Being able to market yourself however you like whenever on whatever platform is a freedom that is truly amazing. There are free resources online to teach you how to do pretty much anything nowadays. You can learn how to make graphics, take pictures of products, market effectively etc etc etc… It really is now at a point in the business world where work ethic, discipline, growth, and the ability to change with the times is what will set you apart…That and help. Help from others. It is imperative for growth to work with other people in your field. You can learn from each other by exchanging tips, tricks and products. You can bounce ideas off each other and see what has worked for them and what hasn’t. Too many people get wrapped up into thinking everyone is competition when in reality they could be a guiding hand or mentor. There is enough wealth in the world for everyone to eat. Providing help and partnering up is such a great way to market yourself through other peoples business and network! Making connections and relationships in your field is so crucial. Surround yourself with good hearted people who are business minded and you’ll see such a difference in your success.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

You Are A Bad Ass Every Day and You Are A Bad Ass At Making Money by Jen Sincero. Audible versions because I like the idea of someone personally telling me the things I need to hear. To be 100% these books aren’t filled with precise equations to become successful, they are the reminders we need. A lot of it is concepts you might already know, but need to really engrave it in your mind. I think a lot of people deal with negative self talk and these two books have really helped reshape the way I talk to myself. Better internal self talk=higher self worth=happier -is what I’ve personally found for me.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.emilynicoleartistry.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/emilynicoleartistry
• Facebook: facebook.com/emilynicoleartistry

Image Credits
All images taken by me except for the last one of me doing the make up which was taken by Kala Caruso Photography