Today we’d like to introduce you to Courtney Mark.
Courtney, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’ve always loved makeup! As a kid, I was gifted one of those holiday sets of eyeshadows, blush, lip glosses, etc. and I thought it was the greatest thing. Looking back, they’re actually pretty terrible. When I was in college, I would do all my roommate’s makeup, I was constantly on youtube watching any and every makeup video I could or at a makeup counter swatching everything. After college, I needed a career path and quickly realized that I could have a career doing makeup. I started freelancing for a few retail companies, worked at a department store but quickly got bored. I decided to take some special effects classes, the tedious work and challenge to make it look realistic was something I greatly enjoyed. I quit my counter job, hopped on a plane to LA and worked on an Indie film. Ten years later, here I am!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
There has been some bumps in the road but every single one has taught me something. Freelance can be a rough road a lot of the time; I’ve learned a lot about standing up for myself, my work and my rate, how to financially balance the times, I have a lot of work with the slow times and how to start over. Three years ago, I moved to Atlanta from San Francisco to work in film, it was the first time I had to start completely from scratch. It took about six months before I got any work and about a year before I got connected with a great group of artists.
What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
I’m a freelance Makeup Artist, my specialty is film and TV but I also do music videos, photoshoots, headshots, private clients, fashion shows, basically anything that involves makeup!
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
It takes a village! I’m forever grateful for my fiancé and parents, they have been there to support me, help me navigate this industry and listen to every up, down, frustration and celebration. I’m also lucky enough to call a great, inspiring group of artists my friends here in Atlanta. Without their support, knowledge, and humor, I’d be lost without them!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.CourtneyMark.com
- Email: CourtneyMarkMUA@gmail.com
- Instagram: CourtneyMarkMUA
- Twitter: CourtneyMarkMUA
Image Credit:
Image 22830252341_da8ebd1f7e_o.jpg is from thoughtfulmisfit.com
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