Meet Alexander Robinson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexander Robinson.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My story actually started for me at a young age when the world of beauty grabbed my attention. I’m from Pine Bluff, AR and I’m the youngest of five. I’m fortunate to have two amazing parents who made sure we understood the importance of having morals, values, integrity and also work ethics for whatever we aspired to do in life. Not only that, but they displayed that by example. I do believe you need those elements to maneuver throughout life. Being creative as a child was something that felt natural as breathing for me. Initially, I started styling hair at around seven or eight years old; I think a lot of that has to do with my mother being a cosmetologist. I’d watched my mother service her customers and I would go to her for guidance when I would inquire about certain skills associated with hair. When makeup found me, I knew it was something that I could do with practice and education. I remember seeing my mom put on her makeup before leaving home for church or running her errands. I would just marvel at the outcome because it amazed me what colors could do for the face. I also would see this process with my mother’s aunts who would visit from time to time. I learned about different types of makeup by what they used while applying their makeup. I discovered my love of makeover shows and reading makeup books that showed the process of transformation. Never did I think that this would be a career path. After high school, I attended college later receiving my B.A. in Mass Communications with an emphasis in Public Relations and I minored in Music. Shortly after exiting the university, I like many college graduates, pursued the job hunt in hopes of finding something in my career field. I maintained a select few of jobs but for some reason or another, I couldn’t get fulfillment out of any of them and I desired a little bit more. That’s when God and I became extremely acquainted with each other. I was on a quest of finding out “what is my purpose”? So I threw myself back into what came naturally for me. One day, just on a whim, I decided to post a picture of my work of a complete transformation on social media and the response was overwhelming. The phone was ringing, I’d receive outpours of emails inquiring for my service and there was now a buzz going around town about this guy who does makeup in the area. I never saw this coming. For something that I thought was just a hobby is now the very thing that’s supporting me. The reality is, I come in contact with so many women from all walks of life and I am able to change lives with the aesthetics of makeup. The most rewarding part for me is when you see confidence ease in right before my eyes. I simply try my best to tap in on what’s inside and translate that on the outside with my clients. It still blows my mind at times. I really love what I do!

Has it been a smooth road?
I can assure you that trials and obstacles have come and will continue to come. It’s inevitable to some degree. That’s apart of the process to obtaining any type of success, in my opinion. Often times I’ve heard that this particular field is what most people wouldn’t consider a legitimate career. But that couldn’t be farther from the truth. That can be discouraging if you don’t have strong faith and determination. But you have to trust the process. After I graduated from college, I was a little perplexed about life after college. I had days where I would feel like why am I here, what was I designed to do, what is my purpose in life? However, the more I threw myself into my work, life started to make sense. I always viewed my gift in makeup as something that I enjoyed doing. Not realizing the self gratifications I was experiencing as well as what my clients were experiencing during the process. Then out of nowhere it just hit me one day, making women beautiful and feel good about themselves is a gift! And while using your gifts, you’ll find that you are on your way to finding your purpose. Some other challenges have been trying to stay motivated and finding inspiration in an industry that is ever-changing. This is an industry that is very competitive and you have to come with your ‘A game’. I’d encourage anyone to stay focus and keep a tunnel vision. Don’t be persuaded by what’s going on around you because that can cause you to lose sight of what is before you. Your season may not be your counterparts season and that’s okay. Trust the process and know that everything happens in the divines own timing.

Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
When the idea of creating a brand presented itself, I really didn’t realize what was happening until I started building a clientele. I felt that it was imperative that I capitalize on building, shaping and molding a brand that embodied everything that I stand for, quality, integrity, and class. I believe that I am known for helping women discover their inner beauty. Of course, I could say, “beautiful skin” or bringing certain features to the forefront is my specialty. All of that may be true but, I think it goes deeper than the makeup. I believe that I have a formula that has translated on all of my clients. I’m not on a quest to change anybody, however, I like to look at it as “a new and improved version of oneself.” I am most proud that I’ve been fortunate to facilitate my own classes and I have traveled around the country doing what I love. 1-on-1’s are the most fun for me because I am able to show women tips and tricks to putting together a makeup look for work or a fun night out on the town. No matter what level of an artist you are, there is a signature look for you and we will discover a formula together!

What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?
Oh wow! The proudest moment of my career was hands down working with the legendary songstress herself, Ms. Anita Baker. I got the opportunity to be her personal makeup artist during her Mother’s Day weekend in Atlanta last year. When I say that experience in itself was a life-changing. I am forever grateful for those who were instrumental in bringing that into fruition for me. The private moments spent with her, I will forever cherish. Sometimes you think you’re a small fish in a big ocean and that no one will see the hard work you’re doing. But this is a testament to the bible passage that says, your gift will make room for you and will bring you before great men.” I’m a firm believer that as long as you put in the work, someone will recognize your gift and give you a shot. You have to continue to operate in your purpose, even when you feel like nothing is happening or your time is being wasted. Your labor will not be in vain. Stay focused and continue to do what you love and love what you do!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.renarioalexander.com
• Email: renarioalexander@yahoo.com

Image Credit:
ReNario Alexander

Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.