Today we’d like to introduce you to Breonna Jones.
Hi Breonna, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Growing up, art was always a staple in my home. My mom was an amazing artist, and her paintings filled our home, as well as many others. Sadly, that gene was not passed down to me. I cannot draw to save my life! However, I loved to be hands-on as much as possible. We lived in the country (I’m very much a small-town girl at heart), so my grandmother always kept us involved in crafts and other projects to express our creativity. I believe that’s where my love for art started.
I wasn’t really a “girly girl” as a kid until I made it to became captain of my drill team during senior year. I remember being told that people didn’t think I fit the role-based off my appearance. In natural Libra style, I definitely upped my game and started to experiment with makeup, lashes, different/unique hairstyles. Pretty much anything that would prove myself “worthy” of my position. Looking back, I know now that I didn’t want to prove it to them…I wanted to prove it to myself.
During college in 2014, I began to master doing my own makeup and enhancing my personal style. I really began to fall in love showcasing my personality through my looks. Naturally, I’m a quiet person but my style always spoke for me. Spring term of my freshman year at Stephen F. Austin State University, I decided to attend a fashion show that was coordinated by an organization called FNM — Fashion N’ Motion. None of my friends wanted to get dressed up to go with me, so I went by myself. I was SO inspired by all of the beautiful, creative, young, black men and women that put together such a dynamic production in such a small town. And these weren’t just any fashion shows; they always have a meaningful message behind them to encourage/uplift, but also provide some type of educational value. I knew that day that for the next show, I’d be there but I wouldn’t be in the audience.
The only committee that really made sense to join, was the makeup committee. Our head makeup artist, Avina, taught us how to use different techniques for different face shapes, skin types, and special effects. To be very honest, I was GREAT at doing my own makeup, but I was AWFUL at doing others. I still look back at those pictures in HORROR, but I knew that I had to start somewhere in order to get better. Over time, my skills definitely improved drastically. By the time I graduated in 2017, I was blessed to do makeup for seven fashion shows, three of which I was the Head Makeup Artist as well as one of the runway models. I would glam around eight models on average, including myself, for every show. It was hard work, but I absolutely loved every minute of it!
My experience in FNM got me recognized by many students that needed their makeup done for graduation photos and special events. I was one of the few makeup artists at the time, so my clientele grew quickly through word of mouth. I used these opportunities to practice new techniques that I’d learned from my favorite YouTubers such as Aaliyah Jay, MakeupShayla, Jackie Aina, Jennie Jenkins (BeautybyJJ), and my absolute favorite makeup artist Alaina Saulsberry from Color DuJour.
I’ve now been doing makeup for going on 8 years. That actually sounds crazy to say! I feel very blessed to have this gift, but what I cherish most are the relationships I’ve made along the way. My ultimate goal is to always present a safe atmosphere where my clients can be themselves, ask questions, chat about everyday life, and exchange valuable gems that can be implemented in our growth as individuals. I currently provide makeup services for everything from girl’s night/date night, to graduations, weddings, baby showers, and fashion shows. I am grateful to be able to travel as needed to provide premium experiences for my clients. However, in the future I do plan to have a studio with my good friend and lash artist, Tiphani from TT’s Lash Extenstions LLC.
As I continue to grow my business, and offer new innovative experiences, I will continue to model, creative direct, image consult, teach, and inspire young girls to go after their wildest dreams. I will continue to grow my platform so that I can one day use it to share my full life testimony to encourage at least one person to go fight relentlessly until they see their visions and dreams come to fruition.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Absolutely not. It’s easy to act like we done experience moments of feeling inadequate, but that just isn’t true. My mom passed away in 2016, which definitely affected me heavily. I experienced severe depression and anxiety which made me want to go into isolation while trying to finish college and continue expanding my brand. I also experienced the post-grad period of confusion, which took a greater toll on me mentally and emotionally. Then, of course, came COVID-19 which turned everyone’s world upside down. I had to regroup and eventually found my way to teaching middle school and pouring into my students while perfecting my craft. A totally different path than what I was expecting, but I’d grown to enjoy it. Then, my grandfather passed away in 2021. I can’t lie, it has been hard fighting my way back to doing what I love consistently, but I have peace knowing that I have an amazing support system and hope my angels are proud of the woman I’m becoming.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am an independent makeup artist, specializing in soft and natural makeup applications that enhance my clients’ natural beauty. At the beginning of my journey, I was known for graduations, birthdays, and fashion shows. However, lately I am most recognized from my bridal glam services! It has been a complete turn of events, but I find something really special about the atmosphere on wedding day. The laughter, the excited yet nervous energy, the beautiful dresses and decor, the anticipation of something long-awaited. It’s truly amazing!
It may sound cliche being that I teach, but the educational value that I provide to my clients is what sets me apart. As makeup artists, we share many of the same techniques, business practices, and products, but everyone isn’t keen to being open with their clients. I love sparking conversations and letting my clients get to know me, which results in them feeling comfortable to ask me questions about my techniques and just life in general.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Always be open to being open! What I mean by that is, be open to trying new methods when you don’t succeed on the first try. If you can’t get through the door, try going around back, then try the window, etc. My absolute favorite quote that I always tell others is “rejection is redirection and protection.” Some opportunities are appealing but are not destined for us. We always want to be in alignment; that is always the goal.
What has worked well for me is breaking the barrier of “shyness” and creating that connection first. Growing up, I didn’t always feel welcome in social settings, so I pride myself on introducing myself to others and putting myself out there. While making these connections, I always end the conversation with either getting their contact information or their social media, so that we stay connected in the future. Keep your social/business card ready and available for when you’re out socializing, and let your personality do the rest!
Pricing:
- $60 Natural Glam (“No Makeup” look including full complexion application and false lashes)
- $70 Soft Glam (Simple eyeshadow including full complexion application and false lashes)
- $80 Full Glam (Detailed eyeshadow including full complexion application and false lashes)
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @thebmbeauty
