Daily Inspiration: Meet Brittany Allen

Today we’d like to introduce you to Brittany Allen.

Hi Brittany, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I am a professional makeup artist and union member with extensive experience working on various film and television productions. Following the industry strike in 2023, production slowed down significantly, prompting me to find a creative way to supplement my income.

As a lifelong creative, I have always spent my free time crafting projects for myself and my friends. Having this unexpected downtime allowed me to fully channel this passion, which ultimately led to the launch of my brand, Vanity By Alexis.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I wanted to share some of the challenges and learning experiences I’ve faced recently.

Along the way, I have hit a few roadblocks, from choosing the wrong vendor opportunities to mismanaging inventory by ordering too little or too much. I have also faced staffing challenges at events, such as over-hiring on the first day, only to cut staff on the second day and find myself completely overwhelmed and working alone on the third.

Despite these struggles, I have had to just make it work. I am taking it all in stride and viewing every challenge as a valuable learning experience.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I have always been a creative person. Like most artists, my work is my form of expression. I can often visualize a piece before it is made; and while some ideas do not always work out, most of the time the final product matches my vision perfectly.

My top-selling item is a hand-braided rhinestone phone lanyard that I make myself. Because it is a new and unique product, it really sets my brand apart.

My second bestseller is my line of repurposed cigar box handbags. This is where I truly get to shine and be completely creative, as each cigar box serves as a blank canvas. While I sometimes design modern and classic styles, my favorites are the ones featuring vibrant colors and textures. I enjoy upcycling these boxes into one-of-a-kind statement bags so much that my sister has to remind me I can’t keep them all for myself.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I love that you can meet people in Atlanta from all over the place. I love the culture, the food, and the hustle.

I despise the traffic in Atlanta. Dont move here, we’re full.

Pricing:

• Mini Rhinestone Phone Lanyards- $60
• Jumbo Rhinestone Phone Lanyards-$80
• Cigar Box Handbags- $110-$250
• Bling Fans- $45
• Earrings- $20-$25

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.vanitybyalexis.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanitybyalexis?igsh=M2s4bWs3aHpsbGJ1&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Ei5xHLVs8/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@vanitybyalexis?_r=1&_t=ZP-987mVJKCcoh