Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Jules.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Julie. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I am originally from Newark New Jersey I moved to California when I was 17 and finished my senior year of high school here which was a huge transition for me but I thought I was up to the challenge. I didn’t move to California with the intention of becoming a makeup artist, but that’s the way the universe works I think really beautifully. I moved here with hopes of going to college and I did. I started at community college and then transferred to Long Beach State, where I got my degree in healthcare administration. I’ve always had a passion for makeup though. Growing up I would watch my mother would do her makeup and her skincare and I was so fascinated by how she just always took her time to make sure that she looked amazing. I would always go behind here and use the same products on my self, just to be like her.
After graduating from college I moved in with a friend who lived in Los Angeles. A friend of hers was filming for a TV show and needed somewhere to get ready and get glammed. I had never seen or heard of anybody even getting their make up done at home this was a whole new concept to me. When the makeup artist arrived it was amazing, he had a chair, light, brushes, and all kinds of makeup. They were having a great time too and when he was finished she loved it. I decided I need to do this. Reality hit, I was a recent graduate from college I didn’t have my own apartment I had recently lost my car due to it breaking down and I needed a job. But I knew I could get all those things with determination and the right attitude and so I eventually got a job at a hospital where I worked and was able to get a car and start making a life for myself here in Los Angeles.
But the whole time I wanted to be a makeup artist so I used anytime that I had to book photoshoots (whether they were paid or not). I didn’t have a huge kit at the time so I would use just what I had or ask another artist how they achieved looks with little makeup. During my lunch breaks at work, I would go to the local MAC store and test new products and ask the artist who worked there how to correct the problems I was having with the application. Towards the end of my professional administrative career, I would even take clients on my lunch break if they were close enough, I just wanted to be doing what I loved. I got laid off and decided to with some encouragement from family and friends to go after my dream of becoming a full-time makeup artist and it been crazy! I was able to really focus and become more creative and active in the makeup community. I’ve been able to work with some amazing artists, models, and actors. To me it’s more than the fame it’s the fact that I’m perfecting my craft and people are taking notice. I’ve always had faith in God and trusted the process even when it seemed hopeless.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The road has not been smooth but I’m grateful for that. I’ve been able to learn a lot, whether from personal experience or seeing someone else go through something. I was laid off in 2017 and was in a bind. I had no money saved and had just finally got an apartment and car, I didn’t know how I was going to make it. I don’t come from a family of money and don’t even have family in California, so I was worried I was losing everything.
For a while I was even depressed and started searching for the real purpose of life, but that another interview. I decided I would do whatever I had to do to make money. I drove for postmates, I did audience work, I even went to food banks to get groceries because I couldn’t afford to go to the grocery store. I always held my head high though, because I believe if you can provide for yourself that’s progressive. I know some people wouldn’t want to share this part of the story but I want people to know that they can make it through the tough times and come out on top!
Alright – so let’s talk business. What else should we know about your work?
I am a MakeUp Artist located in Beverly Hills. I specialize in glamourous luxury makeup applications that bring out individual beauty. I’m known for flawless skin application, which makes sense because skincare is my first love. I think what sets me apart from most is my professionalism and determination. I love being on time and going the extra mile for my client. I don’t believe any task is too big or small, with preparation.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up I was super energetic and the class clown. I didn’t care for school much but loved sports and after school activities. Even though I had a super bubbly personality I also enjoyed being by myself and naps of course. I was also very empathic and still am, I spent my school vacations volunteering at the school and hospital that my mom worked at. I also knew what I wanted and wasn’t afraid to go after it, like when I wanted to do cheer but there were no other African American students on the team. I didn’t care this is what I wanted and I was determined to be the best. I also had an understanding of time which I think is really important for young kids. when you know you will eventually be able to do something you won’t feel the need to rush into it. I always knew I would get out of the small town I was living in but I didn’t know-how.
Pricing:
- Makeup Application starts at $150
Contact Info:
- Email: juliejulesbeauty@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jjulesbeauty/
Image Credit:
Tiana Parkr
Frank Mercy
Makaela Heard
Sumanta Muth
Aube Coeur
Joey Rosado
Randy and Ricardo Massillon
Danielle Rucker
Cramen Sun
Emilynn Rose
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