Today we’d like to introduce you to Teena Thomas.
Teena, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Where do I begin? I wasn’t really allowed to wear much makeup growing up, and with two older brothers, I wasn’t too interested in it. What I did love was art, I loved painting, drawing and even creating my own picture books. Art was my escape and way of creating my perfect world. As I got older and entered high school I discovered eyeliner, which I have to say is still my favorite product of all-time. I didn’t dabble in much else until I entered college, which was in Fall of 2011. I went to Kennesaw State University, where I discovered my passion for makeup.
Like every other freshman in college, I wanted to go out and build a social life. I watched my friends get ready and put on full faces with foundation, mascara, and concealer. Believe it or not, I had no idea how to use any of this! Not only did it transform their faces but it immediately built their confidence and they felt beautiful. It is amazing how much you can change a woman’s self-esteem and confidence by accentuating their looks. And this is what made me fall in love with makeup. The most rewarding feeling is when I finish an entire face and the client sees herself in the mirror for the first time. Every woman is beautiful in their own way but to help them believe it for themselves is what I do it all for.
Once I discovered this love I would stay up for hours watching youtube videos. I would practice on my own face as a canvas, and slowly but surely my friends would ask me advice and what I was doing to achieve certain looks. Fast forward two years I’m in my senior year of college, working as a freelance Artist in Ulta. This is where I built my clientele and learned about different brands, products, and skincare. During this time I also did promotional modeling part time for Miller Coors, and this is where I met my good friend and photographer Gabrielle Colton. I did my first photoshoot with her for a jewelry line. She pushed me to see my potential and always reminded me how amazing I was at my work. We would spend countless days and hours shooting different models and scenes. This opened up several windows including the chance to work with Ford Models. When I graduated college, my time for makeup and shoots slimmed down after having to find a full-time job. I found myself not having as much time for my art and it put me in a very sad place. I brainstormed on how I could find time to work a full-time job and give my optimal time to my makeup, which is what brings me to today. I am still currently working a full-time job but I am working as a makeup artist and brand influencer any chance I get. My hopes and dreams are to one day pursue makeup full-time and spread my passion to the world. I want to let everyone know they should always chase their dreams regardless of what anyone tells you. You may not be able to go to that concert, and you may only get 3 hours of sleep every night. But remember that this is your dream and NOONE is going to build it for you.
Has it been a smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road. I put myself through school and I work a full-time job as a market manager. It is not an easy road but your dreams are never going to be easy.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I’m looking to expand my beauty work through social media via youtube and Instagram. I would like to continue to make a video so that I can actually teach a woman how to apply makeup and to achieve the same looks I give my clients.
Let’s dig a little deeper into your story. What was the hardest time you’ve had?
The hardest time in my life was juggling a full-time position, and pursuing makeup when many people around me didn’t take it seriously. I had to work full-time job to pay all my bills as well as pay off my loans from college. (I put myself through school). It’s hard to juggle your passion when you feel all alone in it. Sad to say, most people only take your art seriously when they’ve seen the results of the handwork and effort you’ve put in. Regardless, it has made me the woman I am today and taught me that I the world won’t believe in my art unless I do.
What about “Wow-moments” – any moments that stick out? Any moments when you felt like you had made it?
My biggest moment was was I started noticing huge brands post my work on their page, when I saw the followers add up and when I started to get requests for more looks or bookings. It made me feel like I meant something to the people around me and that I was working towards something.
Pricing:
- Full Face: 75$
- Bridal: $150
Contact Info:
- Phone: 4048016628
- Email: teena4364@gmail.com
- Instagram: Makeupbyteena
Image Credit:
Gabrielle Colton
Rajeeyah
October 18, 2016 at 2:37 am
Incredibly talented young woman whom is extremely passionate and I have definitely trusted to do my makeup and transform me on several occasions and she has yet to dissapoint me.