Check Out Kassandra Jackson’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kassandra Jackson.

Hi Kassandra, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started my makeup journey in 2012, at the time I mostly worked on friends, family and I didn’t have many resources. It wasn’t until 2014 where I began to work in makeup professionally. I worked for a Shop Rite and started to take on more responsibility and clients. I created workshops, hosted events based off which products were brand new. I was able to be innovative and get the community as well as the people who worked at Shop Rite, involved. I felt so proud of everything I was learning about makeup.

After my 3 years with Shop Rite, I started to create a brand, business of my own. I began to network, and utilize gorilla marketing tactics that allowed to get me where I needed to be. A lot of what I was able to accomplish was with word of mouth, creating flyers, handing out my business cards and attending trade shows. I did this consecutively each year that passed and was fortunate to work at the beauty trade shows, weddings, New York Fashion Week, The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. One of the best parts about finally getting a taste of the industry was meeting new artists, photographers and people who just enjoy the art of it all.

Since that time, I feel like my career has evolved entirely. I’ve ventured into other avenues of my career and love it! Working in film, special effects makeup has always been the ultimate goal of mine. It was the very first avenue of makeup I went into, It’s a goal I am very happy to currently be working in.

Where I am today has to be the most surreal time of my journey. Ive managed to work with some amazing individuals such as Makeup By HOSWAY, I AM ZAIN STUDIOS, Jersey Media, Rashaad Santiago Studios and a few others to mention. These artists represent community, art and are committed to each of their goals. It’s a family I gained along my way to success. I’ve learned so much in the 11 years that I have been an artist. Each day I still feel like I am learning something new and perfecting my craft.

As well as community, KassMuaStudios has always been about being a “melting pot” in this industry. When I started, I tried everything from bridal, editorial right down to special effects. I believed in trying different avenues was to understand and decide what was for me or what wasn’t. The experience and the luxury of figuring out the path I wanted to take is a fortunate one. I’d tell any artist today to make sure you’ve tried everything before deciding, there’s no rush.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Starting a brand, business especially as an entrepreneur is never easy. There is always something that will serve as an obstacle. Since I became an artist, I feel as if I’ve dealt with a fair amount of struggles or bumps in the road. Who hasn’t? I can recall the first time working as a professional I struggled with time management. I wanted my work to be perfect but I had to learn to be on a timely manner. With practice, I’d say anything is achievable. I was determined to gain control of both.

Another obstacle I faced was the way social media and makeup in general was evolving. I went through and era when heavy matte looks became light and dewy. Evolution and knowledge of new techniques were a vital importance of adapting to the newer, younger industry. I had to learn and study newer ways according to what’s trending. This meant for gaining new clients and keeping the loyal ones.

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 specialize and work in film/special effects makeup. I work alongside other SFX artists, directors, producers, production managers, set designers, etc. all working to create cinematic art on the big screen. Although I also do beauty makeup, I’m typically known for starting with special effects makeup at the very beginning of my career. The one thing I can say that I am most proud of is always staying true to myself through my entire journey. It was rough figuring out what I wanted to do at first but in hindsight, I think I’ve always known. Special Effects makeup is my home.

I think what sets me apart from others is how disciplined I can be toward something I truly put my all into. There were times throughout my career where I wanted to give up, anyone would but I hustled through some of the most darkest times in my business. It’s certainly wonderful to know I was able to overcome it.

Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Traveling is something that I really enjoy, and coincidentally it became a part of my journey. Whenever I can get away and work at the same time, I feel at my most happiest. I remember saying to myself, I’d always travel for work. I’m thrilled to honestly say it’s become a normal thing for my career. I had no idea it would actually happen. I’ve always been most proud of that.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: KassMuaStudios
• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kassj15

Image Credits:
Photographer: Philip Dias JR Instagram IamZainMagazine