September 14, 2016

Meet Long Beach Beauty Expert: Aliesh Pierce

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to the super talented Aliesh Pierce.

Aliesh, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I started assisting makeup artists in Houston text when I was 12 – moving to community theatre by the age of 14. At 21 I moved to Milano and wound up working in fashion between Milan and Zurich for 5 years. When I moved to NY I worked almost exclusively with Hip-Hop and R n B artists. Upon moving to LA 6 years later I started working with various personalities like Ming Na Wen, Hill Harper, Taryn Manning, Justin Theraux, Ryan Gosling and The Obamas.

When bookings with music clients started to fade I studied esthetics and am now a published author. I speak at trade shows, consult with emerging as well as established brands and I am an educator. My husband and I are creating an online beauty portal called AskAliesh.com that seeks to educate women about the true essence of beauty as well as all the ingredients that help maintain their outward appearance.

Has it been a smooth road?
Well, I was a single mother. I got pregnant the day my (then) photographer boyfriend moved to Europe. It’s not easy to freelance and put a child through private school. Thank God I always had an agent to manage my affairs. (I always say every good artist needs a good pimp. LOL)

What’s your outlook for the industry over the next 5-10 years?
I’m intrigued by new apps that enable users to find the right color match for their skin tone and try on styles to match their personalities.

Has there been a particular challenge that you’ve faced over the years?
My biggest challenge came when I moved to NY and found that I was pigeonholed to working with “Urban” artists even though my career started in Milan. The industry is a lot less divided these days as manufacturers strive to create products with a consistent quality and texture across all shades.

What advice do you wish to give to those thinking about pursuing a path similar to yours?
Socialize within the industry. Even the most talented makeup artists needs to have a crew of supporters. Meeting potential assistants, producers, stylists, etc. will boost the word-of-mouth factor. It’s also a great way to ensure you’re surrounded by like-minded people on set.

Pricing:

I charge a standard rate of $150 x hour with a 2 hour minimum for makeup application. Of course, editorial rates differ.
My facials start at $150 and are currently only available as home visits. I hope to start working on call with a well-respected dermatologist in Santa Monica.
Occasionally I get calls to do weddings and I must say, as much as I love helping women feel beautiful on their special day, brides can be very indecisive. That’s why I only offer a flat day rate of $1,500 for weddings…and I don’t advertise.

Contact Info: