We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jaylei Wallington. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jaylei below.

Jaylei , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Owning a business isn’t always glamorous and so most business owners we’ve connected with have shared that on tough days they sometimes wonder what it would have been like to have just had a regular job instead of all the responsibility of running a business. Have you ever felt that way?

My name is Jaylei Wallington and I am the owner of jayleidesigns LLC. I specialize in Bridal, commercial/set, editorial hair and makeup. I am an on site hair and makeup artist traveling the world doing what I love. Becoming a business owner was the best decisions I have ever made. I experience so many new cultures, foods, and venues. I enjoy that everyday at “the office” is unique. One day I may be doing a photoshoot in a studio the next I am getting the Bride ready on a farm with live animals. Growing up I would have never imagined being a full time Hair and Makeup artist. If you asked 17 year old Jaylei what she would be when she grew up the answer would be in Criminal Justice. At that time, I loved the investigation discovery channel and I was fascinated with school projects on famous serial Killers. I would have answered lawyer or psychologist. Again, a far road from making a career from of art. Many artist are taught growing up that being an artist is not practical and you need to have a stable 9 to 5 career. Phrases such as “Art is just a hobby” and “Do you want to be a starving artist” are phrases I know all too well. The Truth is, if I worked a 9 to 5 my salary would be a capped. While being a business owner my salary is endless and I can make adjustments to better the company at anytime. Besides, climbing the corporate ladder and sitting at a cubicle is not something my outgoing and bubbly personality can take long term.

I absolutely love love love what I do. Being able to walk through the biggest moments of my clients lives are magical moments. I enjoy watching someones creative projects and love story unfold. I get people glamed for engagement parties, Weddings, Baby showers, and more. We get to grow and go through life together which is so special. This is a huge honor that I do not take lightly.

This doesn’t mean that being a business owner is all rainbows and sunshines. After graduating cosmetology school I worked a 9 to 5 job and worked the weekends freelancing for my business. This was hard for me since I wanted to focus on my own business. However, working that job taught me more business skills, building connections, and closing sales deals. All of this things I took with me on my own journey of business.

When I left that job it was bitter sweet. I knew I had a lot to learn with no formal business experience. In the transition from 9 to 5 to enturepuer it was extremely overwhelming. Learning all the needs of the business, managing new clients, taxes/accounting, and marketing. When you are first building a cliental and getting your business out there it is hard to not stress about when your next job will come. I had a time period where I didn’t work for a few months. Then, I was booked and busy for the next few month. Each industry has its ups and down or “busy season”. You learn how to make other income during the slow periods. The options are endless. Eventually, I was able to do photoshoots and commercials during the slow season. My best advise would be to allow your business to flow as needed. Taking a leap of faith and believing in your brand is the best way to go. Continue to work on your craft and having mentors will help you way. When you have no plan B you always find a way to make plans A work. Always follow your dreams!

Jaylei , 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?

I come from a long line of beauty enthusiasts. My great-grandmother was among the first one hundred women to be licensed cosmetologists in Puerto Rico, and my great-grandfather was a well-known barber on the island. Since I can remember, I’ve adored all things beauty! I always relished playing in my mom’s makeup bag and watching her get all dolled up with hair and makeup. I would sit and ask lots of questions, thoroughly enjoying her getting-ready process. Helping her pick out outfits, eyeshadow colors, and jewelry all the talk of makeup and glitter was something I always looked forward to. My mom fully embraced my love of beauty, buying me mannequin dolls and kids’ makeup to play with.

As I grew older, I experimented with new beauty products, followed YouTube tutorials, and even started doing friends’ hair and makeup. This was actually how I started my business—giving beauty advice to friends, cheer teammates, and family. Eventually, they began to ask me to do their hair and makeup. Once word got out in high school about my services, I had more clientele and began to charge. I did take a few cosmetology classes in high school, so I just used the knowledge I learned in class to have a mini home salon in my childhood home. After graduating high school, I was a little undecided on my career choice. My mom reminded me of my love for beauty. I hadn’t considered this as a career because of others’ harsh words about pursuing artistry professionally. Shortly after, my family moved to the Roswell area, not far from the beauty school named Paul Mitchell The School Esani. My mom jokingly said that she bought the house so I could go to school there. Well, a few months later, that’s exactly what happened. Now, I am a licensed cosmetologist!

Fast forward to launching Jayleidesigns. This is such a dream come true! I am a full-time creative doing what I love every day. I work on commercial sets, editorial photoshoots, weddings, Pageants (Miss Georgia Teen – 4th place), short films, award shows, and fashion shows. My resume includes working with the Hawks dancers, Hum TV Awards 7th and 8th (the international show), SCUF Gaming, Mizuno (Tennis, Volleyball, Softball, Running, and Training), authors, and more! I provide on-site hair styling and makeup application for any and every event anything from a natural “no-makeup” look to glam. I make sure to customize the look to your specific vision for your project or event.

My clients would describe me as warm, fun, bubbly, outgoing, resourceful, and their biggest cheerleader. I love to set the vibe for the photoshoot or wedding, and playing your favorite music playlist is so important because it sets the tone for the day. For my brides especially, I give them a mini facial with bridal makeup and a scalp massage with bridal hair. They absolutely love this part of the service. Giving someone the wedding that they always imagined is so magical. I have sewn a bride into her gown after a terrible rip. My emergency kit has saved the day so many times. You never know what you will need from an umbrella, sunscreen, eyedrops, needle and thread, allergy medicine, and more. The overall experience and finished product for my clients are so important to me. Seeing my clients filled with joy and sometimes happy tears is the most rewarding moments and makes everything worth it.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

One of the most rewarding aspects of my career in the beauty industry is the profound impact I have on my clients’ confidence and well-being. Through my hair and makeup services, I not only enhance their natural beauty but also create a sense of calm and relaxation that uplifts them from the inside out. Building trust and connection with my clients is paramount, and I’ve found that the personalized approach of pre-wedding trials is instrumental in achieving this. These sessions allow us to dive deep into their vision for their special day, ensuring that every detail is carefully tailored to their desires, ultimately providing them with peace of mind and a stress-free experience a priority for every bride.

Beyond the artistry, I deeply value the opportunity to connect with my clients on a personal level. Whether we’re sharing stories, discussing their passions, or simply enjoying each other’s company, these interactions form the foundation of genuine relationships that extend beyond the beauty chair. I firmly believe in the power of positive energy and strive to infuse every interaction with warmth and authenticity. From setting the mood with music to incorporating luxurious treatments like mini facials and scalp massages, I aim to create an environment where my clients feel not only beautiful but also supported and cared for.

The most fulfilling part of my work is hearing the heartfelt gratitude from my clients, knowing that I’ve played a part in making their special day truly memorable. Their appreciation for the stress relief I provide and the confidence I help them exude reaffirms my dedication to my craft and motivates me to continually strive for excellence. In an industry where reputation is everything, I am ecstatic to receive the positive feedback and word-of-mouth referrals, knowing that they reflect the genuine connections I’ve formed with my clients.

When it comes to important life events, such as weddings, it’s essential to entrust them to someone who not only has exceptional skill but also radiates warmth and professionalism. I am honored to fulfill this role for my clients and am committed to ensuring that their beauty experience is not only flawless but also memorable and enjoyable.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

Embracing creativity is truly a remarkable gift. As an artist, every moment presents an opportunity for inspiration, and the world becomes a canvas waiting to be explored. From the majestic clouds in the sky to the intricate details of a cherished painting, or even the device you’re currently reading this article everything holds the potential for artistic expression. For us, artists, our vision transcends the ordinary, and every aspect of life becomes infused with artistry. The journey from inspiration to sketching and execution is a testament to the beauty of creation.

However, as much as we revel in our craft, it’s essential to maintain a balanced life. While many people seek different outlets to achieve this balance by hitting the gym, exploring new hobbies like pottery, or other pursuits it’s crucial to ensure that our passion doesn’t become a source of overwhelming structure or constraint. Transitioning from a beloved art form to a full-time occupation can present its challenges, blurring the lines between the once serene act of creation and the demands of structured sales.

Yet, amidst the demands of a creative business, it’s vital to preserve moments for uninhibited self-expression and enjoyment. For me, the joy is in the work I create with my brides. To safeguard this creative release, I prioritize finding balance between work and play. This equilibrium is achieved through exploring new artistic forms, engaging in DIY projects, and arranging collaborative photoshoots with fellow artists, all avenues through which I can nurture my creativity and let my imagination soar freely.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jayleidesigns.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/jayleidesigns
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/jayleidesigns
• Youtube: www.youtube.com/@jayleidesigns
• Other: www.pinterest.com/jayleidesigns www.tiktok.com/@jayleidesigns

Image Credits
Sage and cedar photo, Vitor Lopes (2is1 Studios), Neshaszda Z Photography, Julie Paisley, Jessica Kalina Photography, MNK Pics, Ismael Lugo Photographer