Today we’d like to introduce you to Margaret Snider.
Margaret, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My path into the beauty industry was one I would consider less traveled. I worked in the production and post-production industries for 5 years in an administrative role. I was exposed to an industry that was fast-paced, creative, and cut-throat. Working in that position taught me so much about hard work and business and I’m forever grateful.
I had been doing makeup for friends and family for years but honestly never considered it as a full-time career for myself. It wasn’t until I had the opportunity to work on a few sets under other artists that I had the realization I could actually make this a new career path and use my creativity and business experience in tandem.
I left my corporate job and started from scratch. I worked as a makeup assistant and then slowly began networking with other creatives in the Atlanta area. I like to think I built my business on a foundation of authentic, real connections with others. That’s what sets me apart. I care deeply about the creatives and clients I’ve had the opportunity to work with over the years. They are the reason I’m able to do what I love!
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?
I can say, without a doubt, my path was not an easy one. I had worked in corporate America for years to establish myself as a hard-worker but also to eventually move into a larger project management role. When I made the decision to leave that job to start a freelance makeup artistry business, I knew I was leaving behind a good salary, which was guaranteed by the way, benefits, and an established business relationship with the people I had worked so hard to prove myself to over the years.
I moved out of a wonderful apartment in Midtown and, at 24 years old, I moved back in with my parents. Looking back now, living with my parents was one of the best motivators to make my business succeed. I knew taking a part-time job anywhere was going to limit my availability to clients and would slow down the process of establishing myself in this industry. I sucked it up and kept my eye on the prize. I’d wake up every morning and would go over the short term and long term goals I had set for my business. They were goals that would help me develop a core network and bring in return business month after month. Eventually, that business would help me to move out and provide for myself.
Goal setting is, in my opinion, one of the most important factors in growing a successful business. You should know what your long-term goal is and set a list of smaller steps or “goals” that will help you get there eventually. It’s so easy to get overwhelmed when starting a business because there are so many things you have to do to be successful but setting small, attainable goals is the best way to keep yourself on track.
If I were to give any advice to women just starting their journey in this industry or any other, it would be to remind them that they have something unique to offer others and to regularly remind themselves of that. Own your individuality and create a business model that reflects who you are and what you want to do/offer/create for others. I see so many business owners who try their best to model their business off of others but, in the end, that business model is never sustainable. Be true to who you are and you’ll never go wrong!
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Margaret Snider Artistry – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I’m a freelance makeup artist, based in Atlanta, GA, who specializes in bridal, beauty, commercial, and print. I work with 40+ brides and hundreds of individual clients throughout the year. When I’m not working with those clients I’m on set with brands like Home Depot, HGTV, Cartoon Network, Grady, and Suntrust.
I love that I’m afforded the opportunity to work with large brands as well as individual clients. I think this gives me a chance to stretch my legs creatively since each and every clients’ needs are different. I also get a chance to take my experience and technique from the film, which often requires me to work with actors who’ll be in front of 4k+ cameras, and apply that knowledge to bridal and portrait clients. In the end, every paying client is looking for a balance. My goal is always to make them look their best on camera and in person!
I’m proud to say, I’ve established myself as an artist who focuses more on enhancing natural beauty rather than transforming someone. I want every client to look in the mirror and still see themselves at the end of our appointment. I use professional and luxury products to create makeup looks that are less about trends and more about effortless, timeless beauty.
Who have you been inspired by?
It may be a cliche response, but my Mom has always been a role model for me. She was able to nurture her family, work full time, keep close friendships that stood the test of time and create a home life that’s stable and filled with love. She’s one of the hardest working people I’ve ever met and I feel so honored to call her my mother.
In the makeup industry, forward-thinking artists like Pat McGrath, Kevyn Aucoin, Lisa Eldridge, and Ve Neill will always be a source of inspiration for me. It’s so easy to see the makeup artistry as a hobby or to take it less seriously but there is so much education, hard work, and dedication that goes into being a successful artist. My goal will always be to keep learning and work hard to develop myself both personally and professionally.
Pricing:
- Current Bridal Booking Minimum begins at $700.00 (subject to change)
Contact Info:
- Website: www.margaretsnider.com
- Email: info@margaretsnider.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/margaretsnidermua
- Facebook: www.instagram.com/margaretsniderartistry
Image Credit:
Diana Lupu Photography & Detailed I Dos, Jamie Hopper, Nancy Gabriella, 4 Corners Photo, Macy O’Connell Photography, Mario Fernando
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
