Today we’d like to introduce you to Toya Singletary.
Toya, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Growing up, I would consider myself a “Tomboy” lol! I loved hanging with my cousin, Courtney and his friends from the neighborhood. The playing with dolls and playing dress-up was never my cup of tea! Even in college, I was a jean and sneakers (Nike Presto’s were my FAV!!) kinda girl, who only needed a good tube of Carmax to get through the day. I thought I was doing something when I stepped out with a good pair of Parasuco Jeans and my MAC Clear lipglass…lol! That was it! That was me….
My makeup journey started when I began going through a very difficult time in my marriage that led to me questioning myself and who I had become. I felt like I’d lost a lot, a one of the biggest lost, was myself. I felt so emotionally down and drained, I knew the only thing I could change was my physical appearance. I started playing in makeup all the time. Every time I’d go out, I had to be “made up”. I started to get approached by random women, asking who did my makeup. When I told them, I did it, a couple asked if I would do there’s. I was shocked the first few times. I mean, I knew I was presentable when I left the house, but wasn’t expecting booking request. I was so afraid to take the challenge because as a makeup artist, you know doing your own makeup is so much different than doing others. I knew face shapes, eyes, skin, undertones, etc were all important in great makeup application, but I didn’t think I possessed the skills to do it . One day in 2010 I accepted the challenge. I told my 1st client that I am NOT a Makeup Artist but if you trust me enough, I’d be glad for the opportunity. I think I charged her like, $25 bucks! lol
I was nervous as hell! But in the end, she loved it. Looking back, I think she looked absolutely ridiculous, after seeing how I’ve grown so much as an artist. But this young lady changed my life. I loved how she loved herself, even more, after being “pampered and glammed up” by little ole ME! And that was one of the greatest feeling in the world, that I get to re-live after client.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Definitely, not a smooth road! You know, being in a customer service based industry, you encounter all types of personalities, definitely challenge #1.
Challenge #2- Being in this world of Social media, you see and follow so many artists with different styles. Although I love so many different artist and what they bring to the table, I have to remember to stay true to myself and my artistry. I am not a good “Cake Face” makeup artist. I love doing makeup glam for the everyday woman and Brides. So, when I have a client ask me to recreate a look from an artist that completely different from mine, I have to gently remind them, that all artist are different, and I have to stay in my lane… lol!
Challenge #3, is definitely learning the background of a beauty business. I graduated from Georgia State University with a BA in Business so it’s all very familiar, but putting the business practices to work for your own, is an everyday learning experience!
Please tell us about MadysonSkyy Makeup.
I specialize in timeless/glamorous looks for the everyday woman and Brides to Be! I am proud of that, because I love working with women who look and feel like me most days. I can relate to wanting to be beautiful for a good birthday celebration or wanting to look beautiful and pulled together for a business photo shoot representing your OWN brand, or the new mother to be who is hot and tired from being pregnant all summer long that is excited to be made over for her maternity shoot or baby shower.
Do you think there are structural or other barriers impeding the emergence of more female leaders?
Honestly, I’ve been privileged so far, to not have to experience too many barriers in my career. When opportunities are presented to me, I enjoy having the opportunity to review the details and decide whether or not I think it’s a good fit for me.
Speaking in general, I believe the biggest barrier women have always faced and still face today, is being respected in your craft. Whether she’s a contractor, lawyer or housewife, women always have to work twice as hard to prove to be capable and worthy.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.MadysonSkyy.com
- Phone: 404-500-6579
- Email: madysonskyymakeup@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/madysonskyymua/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/madysonskyymakeup/
- Other: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUpW9MJmniU-Xf6a7-1oBKjw
Image Credit:
Nick Frontiero Productions
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