Today we’d like to introduce you to Arjia Thomas.
Hi Arjia, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
While in college (2000-2010), I started my career as a Makeup Artist in 2002. I worked for lines such as Lancôme, Clinique, Estee Lauder, Fashion Fair ending with MAC. Doing makeup was only suppose to be a job until I completed graduate school. During my time at MAC (2006-2010), I developed a deeper love/passion for the Artistry. While at MAC, I completed Graduate School and decided to quit MAC and step out on faith as an independent Makeup Artist. At the beginning, I was torn between if I wanted to pursue a career in what I worked so hard for in college, which was to be a Federal Agent OR did I want to continue to pursue this career as a Makeup Artist. OF COURSE, I chose my first love.
I’ve ALWAYS been known as the “Makeup Girl” since high school so getting clientele was NEVER a problem. I started building my brand with no investors nor employees from my kitchen of an apartment. Each year as an independent Artist became bigger and bigger for me. I stayed focused and consistent with NO INTERRUPTIONS nor Distractions, ALL with being a single mother. I put in long hours day after day planning and brainstorming, learning new techniques, strategies, researching, etc. to bring me to the next level of Artistry. Today 20 years later, I am the top preferred Artist in the city for Bridal Makeup, ending each year with 50 brides/wedding parties a year. I have an AMAZING and steady flow of clientele. I also have a GREAT line of cosmetics which caters to touching up your makeup/maintaining your look throughout the day.
The ATPMUA Cosmetic line includes the following:
Liquid Lipstick
Lip Gloss
Lip Liner
Blot Powder
The ATPMUA Shop also includes:
Lip Balm
Touch Up Your Makeup T-Shirts
Logo ATPMUA Caps
ATPMUA Umbrellas
Lip Plumer
3D Mink Lashes
Cosmetic Bags
Hand Sanitizers
Face Shields
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?
As an artist, it’s inevitable to not hit a few brick walls. I think my top 3 would be the following:
– Getting a client that has never worn makeup/don’t wear it at all and they are directing you the entire Time on what to do and how to do it.
– No call no show clients which is very rude/disrespectful.
– Restocking products which get REALLY expensive.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
There are several types of Makeup styles that artists offer depending on that artist style. I am an artist that specializes in soft natural makeup applications. I am known to do several brides and to always be booked, lol! I and MOST proud of my positive reputation and the consistency of my business/clientele. What sets me apart from the rest is that I am open seven days a week, I work most holidays and very flexible/accommodating.
Any big plans?
Well, as I hate to disappoint my clients, I will SOON like to step back from doing day to day makeup focusing 100% on my Brides/Wedding parties.I will continue to mentor/Develop Artist, offer 1 on 1 Makeup Lessons and to focus more on my products and bringing a few new ones on board. I also plan on opening 2-3 more locations which will have MakeUp Artist available 7 days a week along with all ATPMUA products available on hand to purchase.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: atpmua.com
- Instagram: ATPMUA
- Facebook: Arjia Thomas Pro Makeup Artistry
Image Credits:
Sterling Photography Shot By Erv
