Daily Inspiration: Meet Veronica Lane

Today we’d like to introduce you to Veronica Lane.

Hi Veronica, 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. 
My name is Veronica Lane, and I am a professional Hair and Makeup artist. I have been in this business for over 25 years. I started out working the counter at the Famous Max Factor store and museum in Hollywood. I would see seasoned actors like Richard Chamberlin and Katherine Helman come in and buy pancake makeup, which was the must-have product of the time. After Max Factor came working for Sebastian International, a hair care and makeup company. I was a freelance makeup artist who traveled all over the United States and Canada, teaching our seasonal makeup concepts to our distributors, and I also worked in the company store. It was really an amazing experience. They were always ahead of their time conceptually. 

In 2000, I went totally freelance and started to network trying to connect with more experienced artists to assist. I worked on commercials, films, photoshoots, press junkets, anything related to entertainment where makeup and hair was needed. It was another great experience for me. 

I really loved working in entertainment jobs, but I needed a change as our family was growing; I needed work that would not take me away for long hours. I had always been asked, “Do you do weddings?”. The answer was always YES! 

I am always available for entertainment jobs, but these days, my focus is Wedding Hair & Makeup. I enjoy working with brides who appreciate my style, my years of experience, I stay current with trends and attract people who like to strike that perfect balance between glamourous and timeless. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The freelance world is never easy for anyone or any type of business. I think the first thing I think about is developing and nurturing relationships with photographers, directors, makeup artists then losing touch. I think it’s a constant struggle to stay on their radar. I don’t think there is any more loyalty, so you have to work hard to keep your name out there. 

For wedding clients, I would like them to think of hiring their beauty team as soon they have a venue, photography, and dress. Oftentimes, makeup & hair get booked last, and in the end, the photos are what will last forever. 

The same thing goes for pricing. If you like someone’s work, pay their rate. Don’t shop around for a cheaper, less expensive price. Shop around for style, reviews, and location, and set up a Zoom or phone get-to-know-your-artist ahead of time. Communication is key! 

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a professional makeup and hair artist. I specialize in Beauty, Red Carpet, and Bridal Makeup, as well as hairstyles from beach waves to updos. 

I am most proud of the longevity I have had in this business. As a freelance artist, you never know what your income will look like each month, so you have to be willing to stay in it for the long haul to see results. 

I consider my best traits to be communication, I will do whatever I need to make sure the client is happy, dedicated, on time, I do not cancel for better paying clients. I love people and helping them achieve their desired look. 

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I do have people to thank who played a big role in my career. 

Jocelyn Zayco was and still is a friend and mentor. I first met her at Sebastian International, she was the Trucco Artistic Team leader. I became a better makeup artist because of her ability to lead and inspire. Today is she Regional Brand Manager at Albion Cosmetics America. 

Kaz Amor, who introduced me to Sebastian International and the hair care/salon world, took me under his wing and really gave me opportunities I may not have had otherwise. Today, he is the founder of VoCe Haircare. 

Elisabeth Dietrich-Fry I met on a film here is Los Angeles. She taught me a lot about working on a film set, set etiquette, working with actors, and running a makeup/hair department. 

Of course, there are many more wonderful people who have helped me along the way, and I try to do the same for others. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.beautifulbridesbyveronica.com
• Instagram: @beautifulbridesbyveronica
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-lane-732a901b/

Image Credits
@whenandwherephotos
@thejustinjay