Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Molly Harren. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Molly, appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?
Learning to become an HD Multi Media Production Professional Markup Artist took time. I received my education from Faces Etc of MN Multi Media Makeup School and that was incredible. Their training is world class and can’t be beat! The thing I would say is that you can only learn so much in a class room setting. you must get out on film sets, be backstage at runway shows, onsite for corporate events to gain experience and become a true expert. I learned the most while being on movie sets, live in the action, very face paced but it took my skills to an entire new level.
Before attending makeup school, something that could have sped up the process would have been to practice on others. it is very easy to try out looks and new products on yourself but getting commutable working on other face shapes and skin types is very important.
It is very important to have good judgment while working on set. That refers to listening to others and observing the environment around you. There is tons of equipment and people, it can be chaotic but knowing your place is key. Another important skill is being able to multitask seamlessly. while you are doing someones makeup it is important that they feel comfortable in your chair. Strike up a conversation and ask caring questions while doing your job. Along with that, on set you may need to communicate with producers and other crew while doing makeup at the same time. Both are vital in this industry to be successful.
Being hands on and actually doing my craft is how I learn more. When obstacles hit, such as covid, it came to a halt. Being intentional about research on certain products was huge during this time. Trying to be apart of anything that could still be in the filming process was key, taking all health and wellness precautions as needed.
Molly, 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?
When figuring out what I wanted to be growing up, I got overwhelmed by the number of options and possibilities. Going into my junior year of high school, I really had to start narrowing it down. I had always been fascinated by the news, news anchors, their pristine look, clean production studios, live cameras etc. I decided that broadcasting was going to be my major and I was going to become a news anchor. My parents were very supportive of all I did but my mom really questioned if this is what I wanted to do. I have always had a love for hair, nails & makeup but knew I did not want to be stuck in a salon. She then mentioned how people on the news get their hair and makeup done. I thought “Sweet! Once I make it on air I can get pampered” but she was hinting at me being the one to do their hair and makeup. I had never thought of that and started researching! I came across a multi-media makeup school in Minneapolis, Faces Etc of MN, and knew that was where I belonged. I took their full HD Multi Media Production Makeup course. I learned so much through my education at Faces Etc of MN and they prepared me for all that was ahead. Being on set, doing makeup for movies, runway, print, HD TV, corporate, ANY medium I was prepared to work in. I was stoked not to be “stuck” in a salon and started Molly Harren’s Makeup Artist in August of 2013.
I took every job I could get my hands on to build up a resume and gain experience. Networking was huge as I did not know anyone in the industry when I first started. I volunteered so much of my time and product just to learn and grow. I told myself to never be afraid of being a beginner and to trust the process. As a freelancer, it was not always easy and full of uncertainty at times. I had to embrace the uncertainty because some of the most beautiful chapters in your life won’t have a title until later.
I am most proud of the movies I have gotten to work on, Under the Stadium Lights (filmed 2016), Angry Neighbors (filmed 2019), Athens (filmed 2023) just to name a few. Makeup is just a product, who I am is my profession. I always say, I am more than just makeup. Anyone who sits in my chair will feel loved and extra special from the moment they sit down. What sets me apart is my love for people and ability to always make things better.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
When it comes to the craft of makeup and working in film, I had to learn to not take things personal. As an artist, I take high ownership in what I do and the makeup look that gets produced. Feedback from directors on a character’s look has nothing to do with your personal makeup application. I am never offended if someone wants a look different or changed especially once it is seen on camera. The camera sees differently than our eyes do so it is key that the makeup is fitting for each individual character. Same goes for bridal or any personal makeup application that your client wants. I always tell people, it is your face so if you want more, less or something changed you will never hurt my feelings:)
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
The book “The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter and how to Make the Most of Them” by Meg Jay was eye opening. Starting my business at age 18, I had a lot to learn and lot of unknown things ahead. I have always had a very optimistic attitude and this book helped bring reality to fruition. “Twenty somethings who don’t feel anxious and incompetent at work are usually overconfident or underemployed.” Setting foot onto some of my first film sets were terrifying, I was very anxious but I new that you had to get out of your comfort zone for good things to happen. That’s exactly how it went for me! I still get nervous at times today but have gown confidence in my skills to know I can handle anything that comes my way. I always wrap a project feeling grateful and honored to have been apart of it.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @mollysartistry
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/MollyHarrensMakeupArtistry
Image Credits
Photography by Abby Lynn Rachel Lahlum Photography