Today we’d like to introduce you to Donna Abate.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.I moved to Houston in 1983. I was a manicurist, and the first place I worked was the Neiman Marcus Salon. A few years later, I relocated to another salon, and the owner suggested I learn makeup artistry. I started taking classes from local makeup artists, and added makeup artistry to my nail services. One of my clients got married and asked me to do her makeup. Her photographer called me and asked for my card, because he liked my work. His name was Heinz Kugler, and he started using me for all his weddings. My clientele steadily increased, and more photographers started requesting my services for their weddings.
Great, 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?
As my reputation grew, and the years progressed, I worked at different salons including: Jacque Dessage Salon on Westheimer/Augusta, The Salon on Augusta, Lyndon Johnson Salon in River Oaks, Salons on Post Oak, Eleganza in the Doubletree Hotel and Norris of Houston. I am now located at Michaelyndon Salon and Spa on the Southwest Fwy in the Greenway Plaza area. I continued to do nails and makeup, and eventually I stopped doing nails altogether. Most of my nail clients now come to me for their makeup services. It is so nice to now apply makeup for their children and grandchildren.
Donna Abate Makeup Artistry – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Using a professional makeup artist takes the guesswork out of your makeup choices, and teaches you “the secrets of a pro.” I ask two questions before I apply your makeup. What color are your wearing? What is the occasion? That way I will know what color family to put you in…either the warm colors or the cool colors. You need to coordinate your makeup shades with the same color family as your outfit. Then I pick the best shades according to your hair and skin tone. I also love teaching makeup lessons. When you come in for a makeup lesson, you will bring your own makeup and brushes, so we can use as many of your products as possible. The lessons are hands on, and you will receive a complete instruction sheet. I have my own makeup line, so if some of the shades you have don’t work, we will use my testers. Solve your personal makeup puzzle, and you will always know exactly how to look your best or any occasion.
Michaelyndon Salon is large and has many talented hairdressers. We also have excellent manicurists, facialists, and a massage therapist. Our jewelry and gift boutique is marvelous, and has unique accessories. We specialize in bridal hair and updo’s. Our salon is spacious, so we have plenty of room to spread out with large wedding parties. Feel free to bring in snacks as you spend your day getting ready for your special event. We also have a large prom clientele. When you are finished, you will look and feel like the belle of the ball.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
Every day is my proudest day, working with new and old clients. I love teaching them to look their prettiest, and helping them on their special occasions. Having your hair and makeup professionally applied relieves a lot of stress. Arrive home looking gorgeous, ready to slip on your outfit. Leave for your event feeling relaxed, knowing you look your best.
Pricing:
- Makeup Applications (either regular foundation or air brush foundation) $65 False Eyelashes $25.
- Bridal Makeup $85 Lessons $85 Seasonal Updates $45
- Makeup on Location: $150 per application Min. $750 to go on location
Contact Info:
- Address: Michaelyndon Salon and Spa
3233 Southwest Fwy
Houston, TX 77027 - Website: www.donnaabate.com
- Phone: 713-963-9121 receptionist 713-416-8990 Cell
- Email: donna@donnaabate.com
Image Credit:
Michael Carr Phototgraph
Charade Photography
Kaylee Wroe Photography
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston 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.
