We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jean-Marie Garayburu a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Jean-Marie, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
I was turning 13 and had been growing up in Los Angeles. Discovering my own style and listening to all these cool alternative bands, I was being influenced by the fashion and makeup of the 90s. I’d try everything from glueing rhinestones in my hair, cutting my own baby bangs, dying my best friend’s hair hot pink with punky color and wearing smokey eyes inspired by D’Arcy from the Smashing Pumpkins. My family had moved to the OC and I found myself more at the beach, playing sports and writing poetry. I took up a fascination with anthropology, history and fine art that pulled me away from my artistry while in college. Ultimately, I found myself at a soul sucking job at a law firm. I had started JM Style House on the side and would collaborate with others to do fun photo shoots. I ditched the law firm and went to cosmetology school instead. I’ve been doing what I have always loved ever since.
Jean-Marie, 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’ve had the opportunity to work with some really popular brands sharing my makeup and hair skills in Southern California and in Texas. These opportunities have allowed me a deeper knowledge into the business aspect of the beauty industry as well as the creative aspect. I launched my own small line of JM Style House lip and cheek stains and online boutique in 2015. It’s been an amazing ride of learning and success. Whenever I get a notification of a sale from my online shop, my heart flutters. It fills me with so much gratitude every time. I love to share what’s inspiring to me with others just in case it resonates and I make a new friend. Sometimes my shop will change to reflect my favorite things. On my artistry side, I love working with brides and doing special occasion Makeup as well as editorial. In salon, I specialize in color, blonding, as well as curly and wavy textured cuts. I’m always taking advantage of educational opportunities and attend as many classes I can throughout the year for my craft. I’m most proud of the amount of growth I’ve had over the last 7 years in Texas! I’m super appreciative of my clients and friends who have supported me and my growth.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
Cultivating relationships with clients and other artists. Collaborating is very exciting for me. Especially when it comes to photography! It’s just fun to brainstorm and see it come to life in a picture. Also, when you have free reign to create for a client and they love it. A returning client is the most rewarding.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
From my experience, Knowing how to manage your business and interpret the data is so important. When you’re self employed, make sure you always have control or access to the data. As for resources, I’m studious by nature and have spent many Friday and Saturday nights with a glass of wine watching various YouTube videos on savings plans and financial planning. I’ve also purchased books on financial basics and being a successful stylist.
Contact Info:
- Website: Jmstylehouse.com
- Instagram: @Jean.Marie.garayburu
Image Credits
Jean-Marie Garayburu JM Style House LLC