We were lucky to catch up with Ravneet Cheema recently and have shared our conversation below.
Ravneet, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s jump back to the first dollar you earned as a creative? What can you share with us about how it happened?
I remember vividly the day I earned my first dollar as a freelance makeup artist. It was early in my career, and the excitement of that initial success is something I’ll never forget. I was based in Seattle, just beginning to build my reputation and client base. At that point, I had worked with a few friends and acquaintances for free or at a heavily discounted rate to hone my skills and build a portfolio.
My first paying client was an Indian woman, who had a special event coming up. She was not a bride, but she wanted a glamorous look for a cultural gathering. At that time, I had been focusing primarily on non-bridal makeup, mostly for photoshoots and fashion events. The client’s request was a little outside my usual scope, but I saw it as a great opportunity to expand my skills and reach a new demographic.
I remember the day clearly. It was a crisp Saturday morning, and the client’s home was a cozy, vibrant space filled with traditional decor and the aroma of Indian spices from a meal she had prepared. She was warm and welcoming, and as we discussed the look she wanted, I could see her excitement and anticipation. She had a beautiful lengha in rich, deep colors, and she wanted a makeup look that would complement the outfit—something bold yet elegant.
I spent the next few hours meticulously working on her makeup, blending shades to achieve the perfect balance of drama and sophistication. Each brushstroke felt like a brush against the canvas of my new career, and I was both nervous and exhilarated. When I finished, the client looked radiant, and her happiness was palpable. She beamed with joy, and I could tell she felt like a star. Seeing her smile and the satisfaction in her eyes was priceless.
At the end of the session, when she handed me my payment, I felt a rush of elation. It was the first time I had been compensated for my work as a makeup artist, and it felt like a significant milestone. That dollar symbolized the beginning of something real, something that wasn’t just a hobby but a budding career. It was a tangible acknowledgment of my skill and effort.
That initial success with the first client opened doors to new opportunities. Word of mouth spread, and I began receiving inquiries from other clients, including bridal ones. As I gained more experience and built a portfolio showcasing my work with Indian clients, I started attracting brides who wanted a professional touch for their special day.
Each new bridal client brought its own set of challenges and excitement. I worked on diverse looks, from traditional red and gold ensembles to modern fusion styles, each with its unique requirements and beauty. The thrill of creating looks that made brides feel confident and beautiful on their wedding day was incredibly fulfilling.
Looking back, that first dollar wasn’t just about the money—it was about the validation and encouragement it provided. It marked the start of a journey where every client, every look, and every challenge contributed to my growth as an artist. It was the first step in turning a passion into a profession, and it remains a cherished memory that reminds me of the joy and satisfaction that comes from pursuing and achieving one’s dreams.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Hello! I’m Ravneet, a makeup artist based in Seattle with a passion for transforming visions into reality through the art of makeup. My journey into this vibrant industry began with a fascination for beauty and a desire to express creativity in a way that could make people feel their best.
How I Got Started:
I’ve always been drawn to the world of beauty and artistry. Growing up, I loved experimenting with makeup and exploring how different looks could enhance one’s features and express individual style. This interest evolved into a full-fledged passion, leading me to pursue formal training in makeup artistry. After completing my certification and gaining experience through various internships and freelance opportunities, I decided to embark on my own path as a professional makeup artist.
What I Do:
I offer a range of makeup services tailored to meet diverse client needs. Whether you’re preparing for a special event, a photoshoot, or a significant occasion like a wedding, I provide customized makeup applications designed to suit your style and enhance your natural beauty. My services include:
– Bridal Makeup: Creating flawless and personalized looks for brides, ensuring they feel radiant and confident on their special day.
– Event and Party Makeup: Crafting stunning looks for any celebration, from glamorous evening events to intimate gatherings.
– Photoshoot Makeup: Collaborating with photographers and stylists to achieve the perfect look for fashion, editorial, or promotional shoots.
– Makeup Lessons: Offering one-on-one or group lessons to share techniques and tips, empowering clients to master their own makeup application.
What Sets Me Apart:
What differentiates my work is my commitment to blending artistic vision with individual needs. I believe that makeup should enhance your unique features rather than mask them. I focus on understanding each client’s personal style and preferences, using high-quality products and techniques to achieve a look that is both stunning and authentic. My goal is to make every client feel not just beautiful but also confident and comfortable in their own skin.
Problems I Solve:
I help clients look and feel their best for any occasion, addressing common concerns like achieving a flawless finish, finding the right colors for their skin tone, and creating a long-lasting look that withstands the demands of the day or night. By tailoring each service to the individual, I ensure that the final result aligns perfectly with their vision and needs.
What I’m Most Proud Of:
I’m incredibly proud of the positive impact my work has on my clients’ confidence and self-esteem. Each time a bride lights up with joy or a client leaves feeling like their most beautiful self, it reaffirms my passion for what I do. Additionally, I take pride in the strong relationships I’ve built with my clients and the recognition I’ve received within the industry for my skill and dedication.
What You Should Know:
For potential clients, followers, I want you to know that my approach is deeply rooted in a genuine love for makeup and a commitment to excellence. My goal is to make every client’s experience enjoyable and memorable, and I strive to continuously improve my craft and stay updated with the latest trends and techniques. Whether you’re looking for a dramatic makeover or a subtle enhancement, I’m here to help you achieve a look that makes you feel amazing.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about me and my work. I look forward to the opportunity to collaborate and create something beautiful together!
Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Absolutely, looking back on my journey as a makeup artist in Seattle, there are a few resources I wish I had discovered earlier. These resources could have streamlined my path, enriched my skills more quickly, and helped me navigate the industry more effectively:
1. Professional Makeup Communities and Forums:
– Resource: Online forums and local makeup artist groups.
– Why It’s Valuable: Engaging with a community of fellow artists would have provided a wealth of knowledge, from practical tips and tricks to industry trends. Connecting with other professionals earlier on could have also opened doors to networking opportunities, mentorship, and collaboration.
2. Advanced Makeup Workshops and Masterclasses:
– Resource: Specialized workshops or masterclasses offered by renowned makeup artists or industry leaders.
– Why It’s Valuable: These hands-on learning experiences would have accelerated my skill development and kept me at the forefront of makeup techniques and trends. Learning from top professionals can provide insights that go beyond traditional training and offer advanced techniques and innovative approaches.
3. Professional Development Courses:
– Resource: Courses focusing on business skills for freelancers, such as marketing, client management, and financial planning.
– Why It’s Valuable: Understanding the business side of freelancing—such as how to effectively market oneself, manage finances, and build a brand—would have been incredibly useful. These skills are crucial for sustaining a successful career and growing a business.
4. Makeup Product Reviews and Industry Blogs:
– Resource: Blogs, YouTube channels, and review sites dedicated to makeup products and tools.
– Why It’s Valuable: Early access to comprehensive reviews and product recommendations could have helped me make more informed choices about the products and tools I invested in. Staying updated with industry trends through these resources would also have informed my practice and kept my kit current.
5. Local Industry Networking Events:
– Resource: Networking events, trade shows, and fashion shows in Seattle.
– Why It’s Valuable: Attending local events and connecting with other industry professionals would have been beneficial for building relationships and finding potential clients. Networking is key to gaining exposure and learning from others in the field.
6. Client Management Software:
– Resource: Software for scheduling, invoicing, and client communication.
– Why It’s Valuable: Utilizing client management tools earlier would have streamlined my workflow, making it easier to handle bookings, manage finances, and maintain organized client records. This would have allowed me to focus more on my creative work rather than administrative tasks.
7. Mentorship Programs:
– Resource: Mentorship opportunities with experienced makeup artists or industry veterans.
– Why It’s Valuable: Having a mentor could have provided guidance, feedback, and support during the early stages of my career. A mentor’s experience and insights can be invaluable for navigating challenges and making strategic decisions.
Discovering and leveraging these resources earlier would have certainly enhanced my journey and helped me grow more rapidly as a makeup artist. However, each step of the journey, including the gaps and challenges, has been an important part of my growth and learning.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?
Absolutely, there are several aspects of a creative journey—particularly as a makeup artist—that might be challenging for non-creatives to fully grasp. Here’s some insight that could shed light on the complexities and nuances of this path:
1. The Emotional Investment:
– Insight:** Creativity isn’t just about applying techniques; it’s deeply personal and often emotional. Each project, whether it’s a bridal makeup or a runway show, involves a lot of personal investment. As a makeup artist, I pour not just skill but also passion and emotions into my work. The pressure to meet clients’ expectations and the joy of seeing their reactions can be intense. This emotional rollercoaster is a significant part of the creative process that non-creatives might not fully understand.
2. The Constant Evolution:
– Insight: The creative industry, including makeup artistry, is ever-evolving. Trends, techniques, and products are continually changing. Staying relevant requires a commitment to continuous learning and adaptation. For those outside the field, it might be hard to appreciate how much effort goes into keeping up with new developments and constantly refining one’s skills.
3. The Subjectivity of Success:
– Insight: Success in creative fields is often subjective and can vary greatly from person to person. While traditional careers might have clear milestones, in the creative world, success might be measured by personal satisfaction, client happiness, or industry recognition. Non-creatives might find it difficult to understand why the journey of a makeup artist isn’t always defined by conventional metrics.
4. The Financial Instability
– Insight:** Freelance creative work, including makeup artistry, can be financially unstable. Unlike salaried positions, income can fluctuate based on project availability, client bookings, and market demand. This unpredictability can be challenging and is sometimes underestimated by those outside the field who may not fully grasp the financial risks and planning involved.
5. The Physical and Mental Demands:
– Insight: The role of a makeup artist involves long hours, often with physically demanding tasks and the need for mental sharpness. From early mornings to late nights and handling multiple clients in a day, the physical strain can be significant. Mentally, maintaining creativity under pressure and managing client expectations requires resilience and focus. This aspect of the job might not be immediately visible to those unfamiliar with the industry.
6. The Collaborative Nature:
– Insight: Much of creative work, including makeup artistry, involves collaboration with other professionals, such as photographers, designers, and stylists. This collaboration often requires flexibility, communication, and compromise. Non-creatives might not always see the teamwork and negotiation behind the scenes that are essential to achieving the final result.
7. The Personal Satisfaction:
– Insight: Despite the challenges, the most fulfilling aspect of being a makeup artist is the personal satisfaction of making others feel beautiful and confident. This intrinsic reward—seeing a client’s face light up or knowing that my work has made a significant impact—might be hard for non-creatives to fully appreciate. It’s a deeply personal and gratifying aspect of the job that goes beyond financial or tangible success.
Understanding these facets can offer a deeper appreciation for the creative journey and the dedication it involves. For those outside the creative world, recognizing the emotional, financial, and collaborative aspects of creative work can provide valuable perspective and empathy.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Radiancebyrav
