Today we’d like to introduce you to Amber Khan.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Amber. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
From as early as I can remember, I was always getting my hands messy and found myself gravitating towards all things art. In high school, I created many pieces of all different mediums, watercolor, oil paint, charcoal, pastels. It was also then that I noticed I had an interest in film and television. I went on to go to Savannah College of Art and Design and graduated in 2014 with my B.F.A in Film and Television. During my time there, I learned many things and also finessed my passion for makeup as well. I did makeup on many student sets from everyday-camera-ready makeup to special fx blood and bruises.
Unfortunately, right after my graduation, my father was diagnosed with a terminal illness. He had stage IV colon cancer. I put my life on hold and decided that this was the time I could never get back if I left to pursue my passion. I’m so glad I stayed because he fought for 3 1/2 years and passed away October 19, 2017. I don’t regret a thing because I did everything I could for my dad. During this time, I grew and matured so much as an adult. I never stopped trying to learn and brainstorm ideas.
Today, I freelance as a makeup artist and also work at a BareMinerals boutique – where I get to meet all sorts of people and experiment with all sorts of techniques and products.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The road has definitely been very bumpy. The past 3 1/2 years when my dad was ill, felt like a strange nightmare. I was constantly stressed and was never sure what direction his health could take. Everyday, I was terrified that my dad would no longer be with me. Last summer, after over 3 years of treatment with probably over a hundred rounds of chemo under his belt, his body could not handle anymore.
After he stopped treatment, his body fell apart and he passed away that October. That fall and winter season felt like a blur to me. I wasn’t sure how I got up every morning and functioned but I did. Although extremely painful, those experiences have made me that much of a stronger person. I miss him everyday. Not only was his passing painful, but being with a terminally ill parent and seeing their suffering is traumatic.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Amber Khan Makeup Artist – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I’ve never believed in any “rules” in makeup, nor have I ever followed them. That is something I feel sets me apart from a traditional makeup artist. No one is too old, too young, too feminine, too masculine, too “anything” to do whatever it is that makes them happy. I get many clients that are mature women in their 50s who have been told for years they can’t do certain things with their look.
The radiant smile on their faces after I do their makeup says it all to me. Before I do anyone’s makeup, I always talk to them first. What do they want to walk out of this feeling or achieving, what colors do they gravitate towards, and why have they strayed away from certain types of products or looks? I love constantly pushing myself to be more creative not just with the final look but how I got there, how I am able to make many uses out of one product.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I am hoping to move my life to Atlanta one day and freelance there. I would love to work on film/tv sets as well. Not only do I enjoy makeup, but lately I have really enjoyed screenwriting and collaborating with my friend and fellow filmmaker, Evan Storch. These past few years have really inspired me to write more material and to keep my creative juices flowing constantly!
Contact Info:
- Address: 1605 Ryman Ridge Road
- Website: https://amkhan8211.wixsite.com/amberkhan
- Phone: 7062648793
- Email: amkhan821@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hennaandhoney/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hennaandhoney/
Image Credit:
Evan Storch
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