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

Narineh, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

During my teenage years and early adulthood, I often found myself dissatisfied with the way my makeup looked, especially due to the challenges posed by problematic skin. However, a pivotal moment came when my mother encouraged me to enroll in classes with a renowned makeup artist in Los Angeles. This experience not only unveiled my passion for the beauty industry but also opened a door to a newfound appreciation for the art of makeup application.

As I delved into the intricacies of the craft, I discovered not only the joy of enhancing my own features but also the profound satisfaction of applying my newfound skills to others. Witnessing the transformation of individuals and observing their radiant expressions in the mirror after a makeup session fueled my sense of accomplishment. It was a gratifying experience that made me feel like I was making a positive impact.

Beyond the artistry, I developed an affinity for the social aspect of the job. Connecting with diverse individuals during the makeup application process became an unexpected yet cherished aspect of my journey. Soon, I extended my services to friends and family, and through the power of word of mouth, I found myself being sought after by friends of friends and various family members for their special events.

Over the years, I have dedicated myself to honing my craft, ensuring that I provide top-notch services to everyone who entrusts me with their makeup needs. My journey in the beauty industry has been marked by continuous growth and a commitment to delivering quality that reflects my passion for enhancing natural beauty.

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

Hello — I am Narineh Sarokhanian, though most simply call me Nar. Southern California is where I was born and raised, proudly identifying as Armenian-American. Growing up as an only child, I developed a passion for connecting with people of all ages, thriving particularly in roles that involved direct interaction with clients. While mastering the art of applying makeup was initially a personal challenge, my journey took a transformative turn when I enrolled in makeup classes to enhance my own skills.

What started as a personal quest evolved into a love for adorning others and engaging with them during the process. Witnessing the joy and smiles I could bring to their faces became an incredibly rewarding aspect of my newfound passion. In everything I do, I hold firm to the belief that excellence is not an option but a commitment. Thus, the paramount value of my craft lies in the quality of both the services I offer and the products I use.

Specializing in soft glam as a traveling makeup artist, I utilize professional-grade makeup products to accentuate my clients’ natural beauty without overwhelming their features. My goal is to ensure that every individual who entrusts me with their beauty transformation leaves my chair not just satisfied but genuinely delighted. Reflecting on my journey, I take pride in the distance I’ve covered and the exciting path that lies ahead. Professionalism is at the heart of my approach, and I dedicate myself to exceeding the expectations of each client I have the privilege of working with.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

In the realm of this industry, there’s a prevalent miscommunication that often downplays the complexity of being a makeup artist. Many outsiders assume it’s an easy job and shouldn’t command a substantial price tag. However, I believe walking in the shoes of a makeup artist for just a weekend would swiftly change such perceptions. The truth is, this line of work demands an immense amount of time, effort, and sacrifice.

The competition is fierce, with countless talented artists vying for attention. Building a reputation and income stream takes considerable time and effort. I personally invested a significant amount of time in unpaid projects to establish my name, an experience that not only boosted my confidence but also provided valuable exposure to diverse faces and features.

For those entertaining the notion that success in this field comes overnight, I’m here to tell you that it does not. The work doesn’t end when we finish with our last client of the day; there’s the meticulous process of deep cleaning and sanitizing makeup tools and products. Additionally, managing social media handles, responding to inquiries, and scheduling are integral but often overlooked aspects of the job that consume a significant amount of time.

When clients invest in our services despite the higher price tag, it’s important to understand that it reflects the use of high-end beauty products. As the saying goes, you get what you pay for, and quality in this field is a direct result of the effort and premium products invested. As my mom wisely puts it, “Rome wasn’t built overnight.” Success in this industry is a gradual and meticulous process that goes beyond the visible glamour of the finished product.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

An early career experience at a salon highlighted my struggle with a language barrier and miscommunication while attempting to meet challenging client expectations. Despite feeling emotionally drained, the setback almost led me to consider quitting. Support from friends and family helped me realize that this experience didn’t define me. Accepting that not every client will appreciate my style, I shifted my focus to those who resonate with it. Over the years, building my brand attracted clients sharing a similar vision, reinforcing the value of staying true to my unique style. Uncertainty about outcomes has become rare, and I am grateful for clients who align with my artistic expression.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/narlyglow/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/narlyglow/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/narlyglow-burbank-2