Today we’d like to introduce you to Karessa Johnson.
Hi Karessa, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Ever since a little girl, I’ve always expressed myself artistically. I loved to draw, color, create hairstyles, and so much more. In my twenties, I began applying my own makeup. I sucked at it looking back at some of those pictures. The struggle was real, lol. Somehow, I still managed to get compliments from others. Eventually, I began to get requests to apply makeup to others but I was a bit intimidated by the thought of touching someone’s skin without knowing the basic fundamentals. I knew the artistic side of it already. So I enrolled in an online course and received my certification within a year or so. That is when I began to start my career as a freelance Makeup Artist.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Absolutely not! There were times when I got shaded and clowned. I had other artists who compared my work to theirs and laughed at how long it took me to apply makeup. That only pushed me to perfect my craft. I’m still learning and perfecting my craft to be honest. The beauty industry is forever changing and evolving so you have to stay ahead of the game.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a Certified Professional Makeup Artist. Makeup is my passion and my ministry. I love enhancing my client’s beauty. It is such a rewarding experience. Lately, I have mastered the more natural/nude makeup looks but many know and love me for my creative, over the top looks. I love to challenge myself especially during the Halloween season. I am most proud of how much I have accomplished in such a short time. I’ve been blessed to work with celebrity photographers such as Dewayne Rogers and Will Sterling; stylists such as Shun Melson and the one and only Jeremy Haynes. I’ve also worked on set with cast members off RHOA and GUHH. I’ve had the opportunity to do makeup for Pae Epps (Two Chains wife), Zonnique, and Toya Johnson. I have also been blessed to work with several brides for their special day. What sets me apart from other MUA is my spirit. The fellowship I have with my clients.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I do read books by Sarah Jakes Roberts, Iyanla Vanzant, Tony Gaskins, and Daniel Okpara to name a few. I actually just became a published author myself. I wrote my very first book titled; LACSA: Living, Learning, Loving After Childhood Sexual Abuse. I wrote this book because I felt it my purpose in life to help others around the world overcome the trauma from their childhood as I have managed to. I often times listen to Conversations by Mo (one of my fav podcasts). These authors/books (including my own) inspire me in so many ways.
Pricing:
- Makeup Starts at $65 for natural glam
- My book is $20
Contact Info:
- Website: www.iamkaressa.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/karessedfaces
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karessa.johnson.3
Image Credits
Vivian (theryabrand)
