We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Heather Hughes. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Heather below.
Heather, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What do you think it takes to be successful?
Success in my business means listening! While it might sound unusual for a makeup artist, it is essential to my approach. At Hues by Heather, my goal is to make clients feel beautiful both inside and out. If I just “paint a face” without getting input, it might not truly represent the person looking in the mirror. Instead of asking directly what they want, I ask questions to understand their vision. For example, if a client says, “I want a smoky eye,” their definition and mine might differ. But together, we can create the perfect look that feels right for them.
While some artists have a signature style, my clients hire me for my expertise and ability to enhance their natural beauty without changing who they are. For brides especially, I aim for a look that allows their significant other to recognize them when they walk down the aisle. I want them to see their reflection and light up, knowing they look and feel beautiful.
The same principle applies to my “Do-able” makeup lessons. I call them “do-able” because I take the time to listen and go through each client’s makeup routine, understanding how much time they have to get ready. If a client never uses eyeshadow or only uses one color, I won’t teach them to apply five shades. Instead, I’ll show them how to apply eyeshadow correctly and how to make one shade look like two. From there, we can build up to more advanced techniques as they become more comfortable. This approach ensures they feel confident and capable with what they’ve learned, with clear next steps as they grow.
Heather, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
When you’re a kid, and someone asks, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” my answer was always a dancer. I dreamed of being a backup dancer for Janet Jackson. I started dancing at three and continued through college. Growing up, the “norm” was to graduate from high school, go to college, and then work a 9-to-5 job. That did NOT sound like fun to me.
Later in life, I was blessed to meet a professional makeup artist who invited me to work with her. That was life-changing. I discovered the joy of having something different to do every day, exploring new places, meeting new people, and making people look and feel amazing. Making people feel special is key and sets Hues by Heather apart. We don’t just run in, do our job, and leave.
For weddings, my goal is to make the day perfect and relaxing for my bride. I can’t count how many times I’ve stayed to help lace up the back of a wedding dress or assisted bridesmaids in getting into their dresses. I’ve even helped sew a bridesmaid’s dress because the seamstress didn’t finish it—something I’m not skilled in—but that’s part of doing what it takes to make the day special.
Makeup lessons have become one of my favorite things because I love seeing that moment when it clicks for someone who thought they couldn’t do makeup or thought it would be too difficult. When they look in the mirror, they feel accomplished and put together. It’s not about piling on makeup—it’s about covering what needs to be covered and letting your natural beauty shine through.
Most of us have walked out of the house with no makeup on, but taking a couple of minutes to apply a little concealer, lip gloss, blush, and mascara can give you a pep in your step and a bit more confidence.
Working commercial jobs and fashion shows is another exciting aspect of my job. Whether I’m working with celebrities on a show, on a commercial, or in the fast-paced environment of a fashion show, I stay focused on making the client happy and constantly seek ways to improve. I never want to stop learning. Everything evolves—we’re not still listening to cassette tapes, right? The same goes for makeup. Makeup evolves, from the products themselves to how you apply them and what’s in them. It’s important not to get stuck.
Loving what I do shows in my work and to my clients. I’ve worked with some clients since they were in high school, doing their makeup and hair, and now I’ve done their weddings and even maternity shoots. I’ve built long-term relationships with commercial clients because they know I can make their vision happen.
Hues by Heather likes to have fun. I love making people laugh and enjoy their time with me. If I’m doing makeup and hair for a wedding, it should be their most exciting day, and I’m going to be excited for them. Commercial shoots can be long days, and actors may feel stressed, so being lighthearted and building their confidence can reflect positively on camera.
My journey from aspiring dancer to makeup artist has been a testament to following one’s passion and embracing change. At Hues by Heather, the focus is on creating an environment where clients feel valued, understood, and truly beautiful. Whether it’s helping a bride on her special day, guiding someone through a makeup lesson, or working on a commercial shoot, my goal is to enhance each client’s unique beauty while making them feel confident and special.
I believe that constant learning and adapting are crucial, as is having fun along the way. By staying true to my passion and being committed to delivering exceptional experiences, I continue to build lasting relationships and make a meaningful impact in the lives of my clients.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
Being a small business owner means that resilience has to be your middle name. There will always be ups and downs, with busy and slow times. When those downs come, you figure out what will work and learn from it. When COVID happened, my business stopped. That was a scary time for me as a single mom, but it also prompted me to start doing Zoom makeup lessons and videos for a makeup company.
In Texas, summers tend to slow down for us, so I prepare by shifting more into makeup lessons or creating more videos for social media to have content ready to go. Staying busy is key to resilience. While everyone needs a break once in a while, you have to keep moving and prepare for the unexpected.
Anticipating changes and adapting quickly allows you to keep your business thriving. By staying proactive and embracing new opportunities, you can turn challenges into chances for growth and success.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
The most effective strategy for growing my business is consistency—across many areas. It’s not just about doing great makeup and hair but ensuring people see you regularly. Social media is key and constantly changing, so staying visible there is crucial. I also send quarterly emails to remind clients about my services and keep them engaged.
When I first started, and even now, I occasionally offer my services for no charge. If I hear of a project, fundraiser, or good cause, I offer to do makeup and hair as a gift. For example, if a photographer is working on a project, I might offer my services for free in exchange for some amazing photos. This allows me to work with new people, make connections, and gain exposure. Consistency in visibility and generosity helps build strong relationships and expands my network, ultimately driving business growth.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.Huesbyheather.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/Huesbyheather
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/HuesbyHeather
- Linkedin: Linkendin.com/HuesbyHeather
