Today we’d like to introduce you to Mia Johnson
Hi Mia, 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?
I am a multi-award winning Internationally published Global Hair and Makeup artist that specializes in Destination Weddings, and an Industry Liaison and Talent Development Director for a new Agency – ERA TEN.
My journey into the creative career has been a bit unorthodox. I originally went to hair and makeup school when I graduated high school because I didn’t want to move with my parents, so I negotiated with them that if I went to school I could stay living where I was while they moved. I enrolled in a cosmetology program because it was a short 6 month program that would allow me to turn legal age while attending school, and I wouldn’t have to oblige my parents any longer. After graduating from Makeup school, I didn’t see any opportunities to make money so I moved on from that and pursed a Business degree. While I was attending University I started doing makeup on the side for friends and family’s events and weddings. I quickly realized that not only was my passion in the arts, but there was a chance to make an actual career and real money out of it.
I left my established job in administration and consulting and side stepped fully into doing weddings without any safety net. This was the biggest learning curve. Struggling in my first few wedding seasons taught me more about business than a four year degree in Business ever did. I was lucky enough during this time to land a management position in services with Sephora back when they highly invested in their artistry teams, and did training all over North America with some of the biggest brands in the industry. This connection with brands and networking with big time artists opened a lot of doors for me, and allowed me to make connections internationally. It also taught me the power of networking and how to leave a lasting impression in person.
After several publications, I was approached by a wedding magazine in Europe to fly there and do two shoots, one in France and One in Italy. These shoots went on to be published online, in print and were both featured in a full campaign in New York, in Times Square. That was the start of working my way into being a global artist.
Now I work wedding’s all over the world, and have become an Industry Liaison and Talent Development Director for ERA TEN. ERA TEN, is a new agency that represents all types of talent, but focuses on not only connecting their talent with brands and clients globally but teaches their talent how to network and the power that comes from having that ” it factor”.
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?
It’s been a bumpy road, as Entrepreneurs nothing is guaranteed. You really are betting everything on yourself day in and day out. You are only as successful as you work, you’re only making as much money as you put the effort into making.
I’ve hit more obstacles that should have made me quit than I can count.
I’ve had my makeup kit completely stolen three times, one of those being internationally.
I’ve worked during and through having health issues, during extreme life events, during a global pandemic.
I’ve been told that I didn’t have what it took, that I was dumb for leaving a job with stability to pursue a pipe dream.
I’ve worked in countries where I don’t speak the language, I’ve been stranded in countries where I knew no one, You name it, I’ve heard it!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’ve been in the industry for almost 12 years now. Over the course of the last decade I’ve become a Hair and Makeup Instructor, and artist mentor. I specialize in photography and bridal hair and makeup, but I am a true lover of a good 2016 glam.
I’ve worked in 4 continents and 16 countries to date, with 8 international publications, and 5 awards.
I would say the biggest thing that sets me apart, is not necessarily my artistry but my personality and resiliency. The energy and experience and interaction that you bring on set, on wedding mornings, in a classroom can make or break the entire vibe and look. Being able to change looks at a moment notice, or even after everything is already completed is huge. Thinking on your feet and problem solving when something like your kit gets stolen or breaks in invaluable experience that I bring in my tool kit.
You can be the greatest artist in the world, but if you aren’t adaptable, resilient and fun to work with; people don’t remember you or want to work with you!
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
The unwavering belief in yourself, and knowing that you always have more to learn. Especially in this industry trends are changing constantly. You are constantly needing to reevaluate how you do things, and change your technique and products accordingly.
I think the biggest mistake that new artists make, is not wanting to be adaptable, try new things, and feeling like they know best and have nothing else to learn.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @mgj.artistry
Image Credits
Barelife Photography
Charlotte Wise Photography
Richelle Marie Photography
Catherine Alysca Photo
