Today we’d like to introduce you to Joanna Sharma.
Hi Joanna, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Since I was a little girl, I have always been very creative and artsy. It wasn’t until high school (‘04-08’) that I started to express my creativity and love for makeup. I remember for Christmas one year, someone gifted me an all-in-one foldable makeup kit, and it had everything I needed as a beginner. I took that thing everywhere! I would bring it to school and give makeovers right there in the cafeteria. I’d hear girls say, “she can do makeup!” And looking back, I wasn’t really all that good, haha. Those were the days!
Ever since then, I never stopped learning. My obsession with makeup and beauty grew to the point where I knew I wanted to become a makeup artist. Years later, I had the opportunity to be a stay at home mom in 2011, and I took that chance to learn more and perfect my artistry. I remember looking at YouTube videos all the time to teach myself new techniques.
It wasn’t until I moved to Houston, TX in 2014 that I started making this into a side business. Though I was working full time in banking at the time, I always took any free time to do makeup. I started posting more on social media and started gaining clients through there. It was very encouraging, as I was being discovered through large companies and being shared through their platforms. The exposure allowed me to gain clientele, and make this into an ongoing business. I was able to learn more about makeup and how to perform looks on a variety of people. I went from being a beginner, to slowly becoming a professional. Whilst makeup is an art. There are many skills required to excel. From learning how to work with different skin types, color matching, finding the best products for my clients, and following the current trends, it has been a learning experience.
Although I wasn’t an overnight success, I progressed throughout the years. One of my favorite moments was when I was booked for a big Halloween Gala in Houston back in 2015. I remember doing SFX makeup looks on a group of people and leaving that night accomplished. I still considered myself new at that time, but the sense of accomplishment was like no other. So I kept going and I decided to focus in the beauty industry more. I began building a portfolio and creating a professional and overall better experience for my clients. I would get connected with other artists and working for bigger projects, performing makeup looks for weddings, special events and more.
Recently, I wanted to further my career and add to my services, so I went to school and became a licensed eyelash specialist as well. Within the beauty industry, the possibilities are endless, and my goal is to expand my skills and talent and keep growing. I now consider myself an independent business owner and have made this my full time career.
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?
It definitely has its ups and downs. Being that social media plays a huge part in how I attain my clientele, staying consistent was my biggest struggle. I remember taking an entire year off in order to focus on my mental health. But with taking off, it delayed my success and I basically had to start over.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a full time professional makeup artist, licensed lash technician and beauty influencer. I am proud of where I’ve come on this journey. It’s not an easy industry to be a part of. There is a lot of competition out there! I’m just happy that I never gave up and I was able to establish my business, Sharmaesthetics. Latin and women-owned!
What are your plans for the future?
My goal is to be the next big beauty influencer! My dream is to have a project with big-name companies, like Sephora and see my name and photo on their platforms! And I will not quit until I get there! My energy and talent has brought me here and I believe I can make that happen.
Pricing:
- Full Glam Makeup $115
- Soft Glam $85
- Eyelash Extensions from $70-$100
- Makeup Training $100
Contact Info:
- Website:www.Sharmaesthetics.com
- Instagram: www.Instagram.com/sharmaesthetics
- Facebook: Facebook.com/sharmaesthetics
- Other: www.tiktok.com/@sharmaesthetics
