Today we’d like to introduce you to Janece Bradford.
Janece, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
My journey began in a traditional way, I attended North Carolina A&T University and obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. Becoming a make-up artist was never the plan. I obtained a job in the Criminal Justice field shortly after graduation, but my dissatisfaction forced me to explore myself and eventually, a totally different pathway to success.
Setbacks along with unexpected twists and turns often provide time to reflect. My reflections reverted to my childhood passion and love for art.
I remember the days I would sit for hours drawing, erasing and perfecting my sketches adding as much detail as possible. I recall using my imagination, my ability to use my creative mind made me happy as a child. It’s the same thing that makes me content as an adult.
As I continued to perfect my craft, it was apparent I found my niche. My status and success are through the grace of God and not by coincidence. Everything I prayed for came to fruition and multiplied, abundantly. Beginning my career in television news was a testament of faith and endurance. The journey was never easy but the fears, disappointments, and hustle were all worth it!
Has it been a smooth road?
If anyone tells you their journey is a smooth road, I’ll tell them to sign me up for a struggle-free life TODAY! I experienced the age-old trials & tribulations, many of them. So yes, I’ve had moments where I struggled to pay bills, got doors slammed in my face and lost dream jobs. One hurdle was my struggle with depression. You must possess drive, hustle and find a purpose to LIVE for during your journey.
The purpose part really hit home for me during a rocky phase in 2015, where personal trauma literally stopped me in my tracks. I felt like my life trajectory was heading toward a downward spiral, for many reasons.
I struggled with silent depression and in 2016 I hit rock bottom. I thank God for my friend praying over me, as I refused her prayers because of my brokenness, she continued to pray, At that moment, I found my why. People admire my drive. If I gave that all up today, what inspiration does that give the next person? I realized my purpose is not my make-up abilities or to make people feel good, which I have done well, but my abilities to motivate and inspire the next person. I lead by example and ultimately, survived. Being transparent along my journey and staying dedicated to my goals showed others how to cope.
There will be obstacles and challenges. Life will sometimes have you so low that giving up seems better than pressing forward. As I continue this journey, it is my calling to make sure people stay inspired and find something to LIVE for during difficult times.
What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
I am a Bridal, Television and Film make-up artist with over seven years
of experience. My specialization is working with anchors and other on-air talents for broadcast/cable shows. I am in charge of make-up, hair and grooming needs for clients such T.D. Jakes, Reverend Al Sharpton, Sarah Sanders recording artist Pastor Troy, Lil Romeo, Kathy Bates, Omarosa, Maxine Waters, Roland Martin, Numari.com, NBA player Kelly Oubre Jr, Bill Nye and a host of others television guests including U.S. Congressmen. I worked with major corporations such as CIROC, Comcast, Fox News, MSNBC, CNBC, The Today Show, Telemundo, Amuze.com, ITN, News Channel 8, WJLA-TV, Fox 45 WBBF, Six Flags of America, Project Runway’s Bert Keeter, and The Embassy of Ukraine, just to name a few.
Within my industry, I am known for creating the perfect brow and flawless complexions. Although this is what people know me for, I believe my attention to detail and my ability to complete a flawless, full- face in less than 10 minutes during strenuous times truly sets me apart from others.
I also have many proud moments like winning make-up artist of the year and teaching my first make-up class at Bennett Career Institute in Washington D.C. The students felt excited about their journey, and I was just as excited to see the growth in their craft by the end of the class. It was truly a rewarding experience and affirmed my purpose.
My most proud moment is the leap of faith I took this year to re-brand myself and my company, delegating some of those responsibilities to another person. Since I am used to working independently, relying on others to complete my mission is unchartered territory but necessary to reach my goal. I give myself a pat on the back for realizing growth is a team sport.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
As I take the steps to grow and re-brand myself, my goal is not to fully step away from being a make-up artist but to explore my passion and purpose in building social influence within and outside of the beauty industry. Completing my goals means booking more speaking engagements, panel discussions, networking events, on-air segments as well as community events. It puts me out of my comfort zone, but then again, what is more, comfortable than knowing what drives you, taking off in your new vehicle of confidence and then arriving at your final destination? This pathway will give me the ability to build connections as I build a name for myself and relationships with industry like-minded people.
The beauty industry will continue to change for the better in the next five to ten years, becoming more technology-driven and inclusion focused. I believe that if you want to see change, you must understand the importance of setting a precedent for the next generation and create a platform to become the expert. When I accomplish my goal, I will create quality content building relationships and partnerships with individuals to help shape the beauty industry in a favorable light.
Contact Info:
- Email: jmbArtistry@gmail.com Contact PR: Regan Farley Email: regan@reganfarley.com
- Instagram: JmbArtistry2
Suggest a story: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Diana
September 30, 2019 at 10:11 pm
A very sincere and encouraging journey. Thanks for sharing the good and not so positive. We were able to witness reality and life lessons as God guided your path. Congratulations! Thanks for sharing.