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

Hi Nia, thanks for joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I was always the shy kid growing up. Had very few friends, not really outspoken and stuck to myself or my select friends and left it at that. When I was working in retail cosmetics I felt the exact same way only a bit more vocal because I had to be. I was TERRIFIED of doing makeup on someone else, that confidence wasn’t there at all. When I had my first client I was shaking so bad it was so terrible! Honestly, shoutout to that lady because she opened so many doors for me that she doesn’t know about. I was walking her through the process of doing her makeup and how to do a natural, everyday look. Being in retail, these one on one appointments were followed by a large purchase so I checked her out and went about my regular business day. Something within me shifted noticeably. The little dopamine rush of selling products didn’t hit anymore, I only felt like I was content when I was working with clients and from there I knew my plan for myself needed to pivot. That was about a year and a half ago. Since then I’ve serviced over 200 clients, completed a handful of bridal parties, created my own cosmetic brand, was head of the MUA Department for a FRISKMEGOOD fashion show, and am now a Makeup Instructor at The Makeup Institute.

Nia, 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?

My name is Nia Alexandra, I’m a professional makeup artist and the creator of my cosmetic brand BRATTY SAINT! I used to think that how I stumbled into the beauty industry was a fluke but I now realize it’s my purpose that I am gladly walking in. My makeup services are customized specifically to my client and their desires. My clients reactions are honestly the most rewarding part of being in this industry. I have serviced women that are in their 40s or 50s that have never worn makeup and to see their faces light up seeing a new side of themselves is impactful. I’m very big on self-expression, if I’m not doing some form of creativity it’s like a piece of me is missing. It’s part of why I created my brand BRATTY SAINT, which is a direct reference to how people sometimes view women who keep up their appearances. A lot of times women who carry themselves a certain way are viewed as stuck up or bratty, when in reality they could be the sweetest person you’ll ever meet. My brand encourages the effortless beauty movement because everyone deserves the right to feel good about themselves with and without makeup on.

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

With non-creatives and people who work a traditional 9-5, I believe they would be conflicted in understanding the beauty industry as a whole and its financial value, which makeup is a multibillion dollar industry by itself. Many people still do not see being a Makeup Artist as a profitable career, only a side hustle while you’re expected to work a traditional job. I also feel they struggle to understand our “job” is never ending. As an entrepreneur we don’t have the luxury of clocking out and leaving work at home. We’re basically on call 24/7. Even if we aren’t servicing clients we’re doing marketing, purchasing supplies, physically handing out flyers and business cards in public spaces, balancing having a social life and being a business and brand all in one. It’s very hard work that not everyone can do and for that I know I’m part of something special. If it was easy, everyone would be doing it.

Alright – so here’s a fun one. What do you think about NFTs?

Honestly, truly, do not know how to even describe an NFT or what it’s used for. But, I do know they have the potential to make a lot of money so … can someone show me how to get that started? Thanks.      

Contact Info:

• Website: https://NiaAlexandra.as.me/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nia.alexandra/

Image Credits
@jay.lackey / @ashimages / @cameronshizzle