We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Elena Kapitonova. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Elena below.
Hi Elena , thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
I believe my strong work ethic stems from my humble beginnings. Growing up in a small city, I learned to appreciate the value of hard work and determination from a young age. My single mom, who raised me on her own, was a constant source of inspiration and motivation. She instilled in me the importance of perseverance and self-reliance, which has stayed with me throughout my life.
As I pursued my passion for makeup, I realized that success wouldn’t come easily. I had to put in the time and effort to hone my skills and stay ahead of the curve.
My move from a small town to LA was a turning point in my life. It forced me to step out of my comfort zone and adapt to a fast-paced, competitive environment. But I was ready for the challenge.
I think what drives my work ethic is a constant craving for new information and a desire to stay curious. I’m always looking for ways to improve my craft, learn new techniques, and stay up-to-date with the latest trends. It’s this hunger for knowledge and growth that motivates me to keep pushing myself and striving for excellence in everything I do.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
As a professional makeup artist with 13 years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of working with clients from diverse backgrounds and industries. But my passion for makeup goes beyond just applying products – it’s about transformation, empowerment, and self-expression.
Growing up, I was exposed to the world of arts and culture through my mom’s work at the conservatory. Attending philharmonic concerts, ballet, and theater performances sparked my fascination with the power of makeup. I was captivated by how a simple stroke of color or a subtle contour could completely alter a person’s persona.
As I began my career as a makeup artist, I knew that I wanted to create a brand that would not only provide high-quality products but also inspire individuals to unleash their true selves. My dream of launching my own makeup brand has been years in the making, and I’m thrilled to share that it’s finally coming to fruition.
What’s most exciting about my brand is the community that’s been built around it. My clients, who have become close friends, have been instrumental in supporting my vision and investing in my brand. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact that makeup can have on people’s lives.
Currently, we’re in the final stages of preparing for the launch of my makeup brand, which will feature a range of innovative products that cater to diverse skin types and tones. I’m eager to share this labor of love with the world and continue to inspire individuals to celebrate their unique beauty.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey, I believe that the three qualities that were most impactful in my success as a makeup artist and entrepreneur were:
1. *Resilience and determination*: Growing up, I was inspired by the story of Helena Rubinstein, a pioneer in the beauty industry who built a cosmetics empire from scratch. Her determination and perseverance in the face of adversity resonated deeply with me. Similarly, the movie Coco Before Chanel, which tells the story of Coco Chanel’s rise to fame, inspired me to be an independent and successful woman. These role models taught me that with hard work and determination, I could overcome any obstacle and achieve my goals.
2. *Creativity and innovation*: As a makeup artist, I’ve always been drawn to the creative aspect of my work. I believe that staying curious and open to new ideas is essential in this industry. Whether it’s experimenting with new techniques, products, or technologies, I’ve found that creativity and innovation are key to staying ahead of the curve and delivering exceptional results for my clients.
3. *Business acumen and adaptability*: As I transitioned from being a freelance makeup artist to building my own brand, I realized the importance of having a solid understanding of business principles and being adaptable in a rapidly changing market. I’ve had to learn to navigate the business side of the industry, from marketing and finance to operations and management. Being able to pivot and adjust to new challenges has been crucial in my success.
For those who are early in their journey, I would advise the following:
– *Develop a growth mindset*: Be open to learning and taking on new challenges. Don’t be afraid to fail – it’s often the best way to learn and grow.
– *Stay focused and determined*: Set clear goals for yourself and work towards them with persistence and dedication. Surround yourself with people who support and encourage you.
– *Cultivate your creativity*: Make time for experimentation and exploration. Stay curious and open to new ideas, and don’t be afraid to take risks.
Ultimately, I believe that success is within reach for anyone who is willing to put in the hard work and dedication. As I always say, ‘If you work hard, you’ll get results no matter what.'”
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
To be honest, I’m a firm believer that taking care of one’s mental health is just as important as taking care of one’s physical health. When I feel overwhelmed, I prioritize self-care and seek support from my trusted psychologist. Talking through my emotions and concerns with a professional helps me gain perspective, process my feelings, and develop coping strategies.
In addition to therapy, I’m also a big advocate for regular exercise. Working out four times a week helps me release endorphins, which are natural mood-boosters. Physical activity also gives me a much-needed break from the stresses of daily life and allows me to clear my mind.
Some specific strategies that I find helpful when feeling overwhelmed include:
– _Practicing mindfulness and meditation_: I try to take a few minutes each day to focus on my breath, calm my mind, and center myself. This helps me stay present and focused, even when things feel chaotic.
– _Reaching out to loved ones and friends_: I’m fortunate to have a supportive network of friends and family who can offer emotional support and help me feel less alone when I’m feeling overwhelmed.
My advice to others would be to prioritize self-care and seek support when needed. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, whether it’s from a mental health professional, a trusted friend or family member, or a support group. Remember that taking care of your mental health is a sign of strength, not weakness.”
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoulelle
Image Credits
First picture me doing makeup for Lada Salish (photo taken by Rio Cam
Second photo taken by Olga Helga
Third photo taken by Belva Chan model nati mallman
4th my makeup for Paula Jivén
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