Today we’d like to introduce you to Bee Wade.
Bee, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
It started in 2011, I was 22 years old and just gave birth to my first child. Those first six weeks in the house were rough; I felt and looked every bit of it. One afternoon, while my son was napping, I took out all the makeup I had and decided to try and put myself together. Like any other normal person looking to learn how to wear makeup, I took to YouTube. When I look back at the images of my first attempt doing my makeup, I cringe.
Even though the look came out a little interesting, I felt beautiful. The small boost of confidence makeup gave at that moment had me hooked. So, I created a photo album on Facebook (back when that was cool) dedicated to beauty looks I tried/created daily. It wasn’t long before my friends gave me the ‘Makeup Artist’ title and I began pursuing it.
What got me where I am today? Man. Lots of prayer, tears, and help from angels God placed in my life throughout my journey! I was persistent, didn’t take no for an answer and threw myself into the industry; no one just lets you in. I gave myself permission to enter intimate spaces and told myself I was equipped to go for jobs and clients people once said I’d never get. I have my fears for sure, and I struggle with self-doubt just like the next person, but that will never stop me. I truly believe in myself.
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?
Smooth road? HA! As you can imagine, being a young mother was a lot. I just had a baby and found what I loved to do at the same time. If I can be honest that made me bitter for a long time, and I still have little moments where I wish I could just pick up and go on tour with an artist, or be on set for 12-16 hours but I won’t.
What being a production/film makeup artist requires is something I’m not willing to sacrifice. Time! Time is the one thing on this earth that we can’t recoup. Fast forward to 2018, I have two boys Noah (7) and Simon (5, Autistic) and I refused to miss out on those little moments, that will become big moments as they age.
Growing up with two absent parents opened my eyes to the importance of my presence. I don’t regret staying home to catch the first steps, missing teeth, silly dancing, and hard things like speech& occupational therapy, etc. for one second. Trust me, I painfully declined a few. My boys are at an age now where I feel I can pull back some, so I’m looking forward to saying yes to the type of gigs I’ve had to pass on before.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I am the proud owner/sole operator of Bee Wade Makeup Artisty LLC. I specialize in the everyday woman. Working mostly in the Bridal Industry, and finally breaking into the film/production side of things (which is my dream). I’m known for my signature soft glam. My clients trust that I won’t turn them into someone they don’t recognize.
They see themselves elevated in their beauty through the looks I create for them. Not a face full of makeup hiding who they truly are. This along with the relationships I’ve built with my clients beyond the makeup is what I’m proud of. I’m an honorary member of many families who I will get to glam through weddings, baby showers, birthdays, and many other life-changing events.
Along the way, I’ve been blessed to work with some really cool people as well; SWV, Avery Sunshine, Angie Stone, Loni Love of The Real, Da Brat and many more. Bee Wade Makeup Artistry, along with my Award Winning blog, AllThingsBee.com have over a dozen ESSENCE features and have been spotted in other magazines like EBONY, Upscale, The Knot, Munaluchi Bride, etc.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up I was the weird, artsy kid. To be honest, I was the same throughout college as well. If you were to walk into my bedroom in the 90’s you’d probably find me painting, making my own candles, or writing a song. I’ve always been a creative, meaning I’ve always been misunderstood. It took me a long time to be ok with that.
I’m my own walking masterpiece that everyone won’t always catch the beauty or magnificence of at first glance. I walked around knowing this as a kid, and it made a lot of people mad. “Who does she think she is?” is my favorite compliment ever! I will always respond with “Thank You!” to that question.
Pricing:
- Signature Makeup Application starts at $100
Contact Info:
- Address: 4370 Satellite Blvd Apt 1222
- Website: www.BeeWadeMUA.com
- Phone: 678-421-4519
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/beewademua
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/muabeewade
- Other: www.AllThingsBee.com
Image Credit:
Ahmad Barber Photography
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