Today we’d like to introduce you to Candace Blackmon.
Hi Candace, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m Candace B., owner of CandyB Makeup Artistry. I am a freelance makeup artist currently located in Huntsville, AL. I travel, and I have clients from Tennessee who come down to support me. I’m just a small-town girl with big dreams; I was raised in Camden, AL. I moved to Huntsville, AL, a few years ago to attend college at Alabama Agricultural & Mechanical University. After graduating from college in 2019, I decided to do something I’ve always wanted to do, and that was learning how to do my makeup.
Makeup is a form of art that allows me to express my creativity. I’ve had an interest in art since childhood. Growing up, I was always thrilled to receive a coloring book and crayons. I would find myself doodling and coloring a lot during my free time. I also loved playing those free online dress-up & makeover games. I’m a girly girl, and I love to get all dolled up. I believe that when you look good, you feel good & a fabulous makeover completes the look. My older sister, Elbony, has been an MUA for years, and I’ve always admired her work. I remember how beautiful I felt when I received my first makeover from my big sister.
Makeup started as a hobby for me. When the pandemic hit & the world shut down, I had a lot of time to work on my craft consistently. I would spend hours watching makeup tutorials, researching face/eye shapes, learning about skin undertones, etc. I would stay up all night to practice on myself because I was that determined to learn. But I soon realized that I truly have a passion for makeup. I believe it’s essential for all creatives to have a safe space where they can go & create.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
As a first-time business owner, the road has been a little rocky. Entrepreneurship is a lifestyle. I’m always learning and thinking of ways to improve my business. I never thought I would run my own makeup business. I’ve always liked makeup, but it wasn’t a childhood dream to become a makeup artist. Some people are makeup influencers, and some are MUAs; Once I learned how to apply my makeup, I thought I would remain under the “makeup influencer” category, but little did I know the blessings God had waiting on me.
Thank God for the vision; I know He blessed me with this gift for a reason. So many drastic changes have happened in my life these past couple of years. I knew it was time for me to stop doubting myself when I started a job I disliked; I had to tell myself, “Alright, Candace, it’s time to share your talent and show the world what you have to offer.” That was the best decision I’ve ever made.
Encouragement for aspiring MUAs: This journey has taught me the most important thing is never to settle. If you know God has given you a talent, use it! Don’t be scared to follow your dreams. Stay true to yourself and forget the naysayers. It doesn’t matter if the market is oversaturated. There is only one of you! People will cancel on you & people will attempt to play with your time, so I strongly encourage you to set boundaries in the beginning. Some days will be better than other days but keep pushing.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a makeup artist specializing in soft glam makeup on all skin tones. The soft glam is my most requested look. Every makeup artist has a different perspective of what soft glam is. I’m capable of doing very dramatic makeup or very soft makeup. I like to ask new clients what type of vibe they are going for. I typically ask questions throughout the process because I understand that each client is different. I aim to enhance the natural beauty my clients already possess. I am most proud of my diversity as a makeup artist. I’m always up for a challenge, so I love trying different makeup looks. I’m a quick learner so learning new things is always fun. I believe my customer service and radiant energy sets me apart from others. I believe in remaining professional and standing firm on my policies. Receiving a makeover is a form of self-care that should be relaxing, and I try to create a comfortable environment for all of my clients. I also offer private 1-on-1 makeup classes with all supplies included.
Before we go, can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I’m always open to collaborating with other MUAs, photographers, hair stylists, lash technicians, etc. All inquiries concerning collaborations should be emailed to: [email protected]
Pricing:
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The Soft Glam – $75
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The Subtle Glam – $85
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The Sweet Like Candy Glam – $95
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Invest In Yourself: The Beginner Friendly Course – $375
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Invest In Yourself: The Advanced MUA Course – $575
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sweetascandybmakeupartistry.as.me/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetascandyb/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sweetascandyb
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/sweetascandyb
Image Credits
Alexis Blue @bpodigitalmedia
