Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexiyah Chontese
Hi Alexiyah, 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?
Born and raised in New York, I’ve always been obsessed with the beauty industry. As a little girl, I would force my cousins and sisters to let me do their hair and makeup, dressing them up and creating looks inspired by the beauty I saw on shows like America’s Next Top Model and magazines. I was captivated by the world of beauty on TV, at salons, and in the pages of fashion magazines. It wasn’t just a hobby—it was a passion that consumed me. I was drawn to the creativity and artistry of makeup, hair, and fashion, and I knew that this world was where I belonged.
As I got older, my love for beauty only grew. By high school, I was experimenting with photography, capturing the beauty I saw in the world around me. I loved recreating looks, experimenting with different styles, and diving deeper into the beauty and fashion world. My interest in makeup and style was no longer just for fun—it was becoming clear to me that this was the path I wanted to pursue. Alongside makeup artistry, I also found a deep love for creative direction. I realized I didn’t just want to create beautiful looks on people—I wanted to design and curate entire projects, lead creative teams, and bring my visions to life. The idea of combining makeup artistry with creative direction became my ultimate passion.
Growing up with a single mother who worked hard to provide for us, I learned early on the value of hard work and the importance of creating your own opportunities. At 13, I began offering services like babysitting and cleaning to make extra money. I always had an entrepreneurial mindset and a drive to do more. I knew I didn’t want just a job—I wanted to build something for myself, a business.
As I got older, I started doing makeup for my friends and charging small fees. I created an Instagram to showcase my work, and soon, people were asking me to do makeup for their events. At 20, I started traveling back to Brooklyn to do weddings and events, working with photographers, volunteering for runway shows, and collaborating on everything I could to get my name out there. As my experience grew, I naturally began taking on the role of a creative director, orchestrating photoshoots, managing teams, and bringing my artistic vision to every project I was a part of.
But then, the pandemic hit, and everything came to a halt. New York went into lockdown, and my business was affected. I was frustrated and uncertain about what came next. I had been complaining to my cousin—who’s a model—about my struggles almost every day for a week. We had always talked about living together and pushing hard in our respective industries, so one day, tired of hearing me vent, she said, “Let’s go to Houston.” I said, “No, I can’t,” and she immediately asked, “Why not?” As I tried to come up with a reason, she went ahead and booked my flight for three days later. Before I knew it, I was on a plane to Houston, ready for a fresh start.
Since moving here in 2021, I’ve been rebuilding my brand from the ground up—working with new photographers, collaborating with different people, and continuously putting in the work to grow. I’ve taken on even more creative direction roles, curating looks for photoshoots and managing creative projects, and it’s been incredibly fulfilling to see everything come together. It hasn’t been easy, but every challenge has fueled my passion even more. I know that with determination and perseverance, I’m on the right path to building the career I’ve always dreamed of.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it has definitely not been a smooth road. When I first moved to Houston, it was my first time fully becoming an adult—managing my own bills while also rebuilding my business from the ground up. I worked a 9-5 job just to pay bills, all while trying to get clients and grow my brand. It was overwhelming, and the lack of instant results left me feeling stuck and frustrated. I was drowning in bills, struggling to make ends meet, and it led to feelings of depression as I fought to make my dreams happen. It wasn’t easy seeing so little progress, but I learned that the hard times are part of the journey. Those struggles taught me resilience, and though the road was tough, it’s shaped me into who I am today.
The most important lesson I’ve learned is that even though I’m still facing challenges, my mindset has completely shifted. I now see every obstacle as an opportunity to grow and evolve. I’m not where I want to be yet, but I know that with hard work and persistence, I’ll get there. So, even though the journey is far from easy, I’m focused on the bigger picture and trusting the process. The tough times don’t last forever, and every step forward no matter how small counts.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a makeup artist, creative director, entrepreneur, and Christian content creator. I specialize in creating personalized, flawless makeup looks for weddings, photoshoots, fashion shows, and red carpet events. I focus on enhancing my client’s unique beauty, ensuring each look is both empowering and reflective of their true selves.
What sets me apart is my approach to beauty as both an art form and a way to serve others. I believe that beauty is more than skin deep, it’s about creating confidence and highlighting the inner strength of each person I work with. Through my faith, I bring a sense of purpose and intention to every project, reminding others that they are beautifully made and worthy of feeling great in their own skin. My work is a way to glorify God by showcasing His creation and empowering others to shine confidently in the world.
What I’m most proud of is how far I’ve come in building my brand from the ground up. Despite the challenges, I’ve grown both personally and professionally, and I love helping others feel confident and beautiful while empowering them to pursue their own passions.
What matters most to you? Why?
What matters most to me is ensuring that everything I do especially in my business is aligned with my faith and in the eyes of God. I want my work to reflect the values of love, integrity, and service that He teaches. It’s important to me that my work not only empowers others but also glorifies God. I believe that when we stay true to His guidance, success is not just about achievements but also about how we impact others and spread positivity and love through our talents.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://alexiyahartistry.as.me/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexiyahartistry?igsh=MTNsOGcyNDBsdjl6dw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@lexchontese?si=4yqEpoP8HysDmWHH
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/lexchontese?igsh=MTByMTE1N2tqcGhuZw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Image Credits
Ernest Pierre
Christopher Martin
Crystal Smiley
Chasity sereal
Courtney Randolph
