Meet Aylin Hernandez

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Aylin Hernandez. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Aylin, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

Becoming a makeup artist has been the best experience in my life so far, being able to express my love for makeup has gone beyond me! And not just my creativity with makeup, but it comes emotionally and within. I started using makeup by 14, testing the basics like mascara, eyeliner, and lip-gloss. I was a big fan of liquid eyeliner, I think that’s where my technique might’ve come from. Just having the concentration to get the perfect wing is all I wanted every morning before school. By freshmen year I think I was already using false lashes and trying out foundations, contour, and highlights, just a full face beat every morning was my routine now, others judged by how much makeup it was for them. or how long I would tell them that I would take doing my makeup every morning. But for me, it was just my daily makeup, I liked & enjoyed putting effort into my personality when I went to school or just in general. I had many friends always telling me that I should start taking some clients in by how good I was at makeup at such a young age they would say. But I always had a small fear of whether I could communicate, or if I would even do good with my work. I just had different thoughts of doubting myself if it came to that point. One Saturday early morning I received a call from one of my good friends from school. I answered and he sounded worried, he said -” Aylin! I’m so sorry to bother you, I understand if you’re busy at the moment but look I’ve known you for a while now and I know you do your makeup well, which is why I thought of you for this emergency that my family are having at this very moment, I was going to ask if you could by any chance help my aunt get her makeup done? She’s getting married in the next two hours, & unfortunately, the makeup artist she had hired for her event canceled last minute right now, and we all here know nothing about makeup, could you maybe possibly help us please?”. how to explain the intense pressure I felt just get laid all on me? It was so weird of a feeling when I got told this over the phone. My first thought was, “I have to help.” yeah, I might’ve said what I said about my fears and doubts in the past but when I got put in this position and hearing the bride was getting married in two hours! There was no way I was going to just deny this & let it go. When my friend just thought of me to save the day, it was because I was meant to be put in this position to help and take matters into my own hands. So, then I asked how far they lived & came to find out they were just down the block. Once I got there, I was relieved to find some makeup that she had just laid out on a table just ready to be used including her foundation shade. I had also brought some of my makeup to use, so I worked with both of each other’s materials to create the perfect soft glam look for this new-to-be bride! The pressure was intense during the beginning with the rushing and figuring out the look, but mid-way through the glam I found peace. And concentration. And by the end, I even tried perfecting my work even if she already looked great and very flawless! I just felt I could do a little better myself, but there was no more time to waste she had to leave to be on time for her ceremony. But even though once I went back home I couldn’t keep in my emotions of how proud I felt of my makeup being done on my first client EVER!
just like that is how I knew that my happiness was what spoke to me the most and that this is what I wanted to do for people. getting a taste of the adrenaline of being called for makeup done is first, and then the peace and concentration mid-way seeing the process of your work forming into one is second, and last but not least the feeling of “my work is done here” seeing the outcome of your work and admiring your masterpiece is always chef’s kiss is third. with time I eventually built up my clientele, I had many of my loyal friends from school help me from the beginning, letting me do practice makeup on them. them trusting me enough to do their school prom makeup, and makeup for other school dances as well. this was my beginner’s phase where I was first learning to get out of my comfort zone and trying to interact & connect more with the people who supported me at the time, I then started to get the recommendation girlies who’ve been told about me and wanted to see what I was about, the rumor was spreading quick about me now starting to do makeup because we had very few makeup artists back then, now looking back makeup then wasn’t the best advanced yet but during that time it was peak & perfect makeup to all of us! we’re talking 2016-2017 makeup here baby! This was my kind of style I ended up picking up on and I was truly obsessed with it, to this day I still haven’t lost that skill to recreate those looks! I want to say I became official with my business and took it more seriously in 2018, I was really mind-driven about my business taking a bigger step. I was doing makeup for all kinds of events left and right, when I found out I was going to be receiving a little blessing in my life, a beautiful baby girl, I was just the age of 17 going to 18, basically my last year of high school. finding out I was pregnant was a shocker to me, but I wasn’t going to let myself hide, and let myself lose my spark, i can’t express how much my pregnancy was the reason that made me into who I am now. I knew I was very young still, and I knew I had so much to learn still, but my pregnancy gave me strength, and confidence. I was able to achieve so much during my pregnancy, I still went to school, I still did make up for my girls on the side, while I also worked a part-time job at a fast food place, got my permit, and eventually my driver’s license just in time before my baby was born so I could be able to take her to all of her appointments! I worked my full 9 months, and in the year 2020, I was able to graduate with my baby in my arms a couple of months later. my class didn’t get to walk the stage because of covid year but I was just still very thankful I did this for me and my baby. I still remanence how mind-driven I was and that I just already wanted the best for my life. After high school, I took about a year off doing makeup because I was busy trying to raise my baby. she was growing quickly on me and very healthy, I love being a mother but during this time I was starting to see myself feel trapped. I wanted to get back into makeup because I was seeing my friends on social media picking up new hobbies and new careers and trying new things. I just felt like makeup was the only thing that I could make into a career you know? I felt like I was already a little good at it and knew some more from my first past experiences, I thought maybe give it a try again and see where and how far it takes off…? Then when I needed the green light, I got a message from till this day one of my most loyal clients Alejandra! She messaged me asking if I was still taking clients in and if I was, that she would love to get her makeup done by me for her graduation that was coming up and that I was also the first person to come to mind for her! That was it. That was my sign, I got all hyped up again, I knew I had to start new again from rock bottom basically, but that didn’t matter what mattered was to start. So, I did. I went to Ulta, I went to Sephora, made all my research with long-lasting and good quality products, and grabbed new sets of brushes, new primers, moisturizers, setting sprays, new shades of foundation, and concealers, contours for each skin shade/type, etc. I needed to start new and fresh. That also being said I needed to get my equipment as well, so I did slowly but surely with time got myself a tall professional makeup chair with a headrest for my clients to lean on and rest their heads on, as well as a new professional makeup travel case for all my products, and a new set of lights and a small table to set up. everything necessary for house calling makeups just in case! Alejandra and my man were my pushback into the makeup industry, and I thank them so much for that every time, I always tell Ale and my man this too, that if it wasn’t for them getting me back out there, I don’t know what would’ve been of me. the motivation and support gave me back my confidence & that led me to being myself again. My purpose was to continue spreading with so much love, confidence, beauty, and magic with my makeup.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I have been doing professional makeup for about 6 years now, from the beginning I wanted to be the one you called for your important events, for me to be the one you think of first to reach out to. it took time to get recommendations around, get clients in, and make my business more approachable. I started with designing my logo, designing my business cards, designing my booking page, and creating and building up my social media accounts, this was happening very quickly because I was inspired by having my name around. I’m grateful that I’m now back on my feet doing makeup all over Salt Lake County and slowly starting to spread out in Tooele, and up in North Salt Lake to Ogden. I eventually had my clients back and had slowly been meeting new people with funny, and touching stories, I got to connect with many beautiful, lovely gals, and many beautiful sweet older ladies in this industry, I know for some of my clients it might’ve been their first time getting their makeup done by me, so I always try being comforting and understanding, for what they want for their look to look like. I verify each step with my client during the process before I move on to the next step. “Do you like your eyebrows like this? Is this style okay for you? do you prefer them lighter or darker? thinner? or thick?” “Is this color for your eyeshadow base okay with you?” and not just makeup talk is all we’d be talking about but also connecting with my clients more emotionally was a big plus for me, getting to know my client a little better was always my goal because I wanted them to come back, I always made sure to build a good relationship with everyone. I have many of my clients who have expressed with me such gorgeous events that have also now been kept in my heart to hold on to forever. that also gives me a purpose for why I do what I do. makeup goes a long way than just throwing paint and powder all over your face, it goes way deeper than that. it makes you feel different, and look different too of course, but I feel like this feeling comes within, comes with being you and being yourself. during our session, we can gossip, talk girly, and spill the tea, but just know my place is a safe space once you sit on my chair. I had a client awhile back who booked me for a speech she was giving out for a book club she was in, I remember how excited and nervous she was for her speech for later that day. She just kept telling me how happy this new group has made her & how much they’ve changed her life & supported her. She explained she used to stay home alone in her house because her kids were already big and her husband worked all day and traveled, so there was barely any presence in her home to keep her company. she said she eventually got into a book club because she wanted to try something new that would get her out the house, she meant how much this new hobby had changed her life. because seeing how inspired she was, made me warm inside to see how much happier she felt once she saw herself in the mirror discovering such a strong intelligent woman that she is, and to see how bright her face lit up was all I wanted to witness. she updated me later that night that her speech had gone wonderful! and that she was very thankful for making her feel very pretty and secure of herself that day. another very lovely story from a client recently I’ve had all the way up in Tooele, this lady was getting married & said she had seen my work on TikTok & had decided to reach out. I don’t hesitate to accept a request knowing they’re a little far, I will always try to work around with you so it’s possible to meet from both ends. This gorgeous lady was getting married the day I met her, she was such a sweetheart, that morning I started with her sister and her mother-in-law first, doing their makeup and chatting with them, once I was done with them I had up next the bride, but she had left real quick for an errand, so her family invited me to sit with them to have breakfast in the meantime, I wasn’t sure to accept because rarely us makeup artist have time to sit because we want to make sure everything goes according with time and that our clients arrive to their destinations on time. but they insisted. so, I sat down. I ate a delicious sandwich with orange juice that morning and expressed how grateful I was for them letting me sit for a little, I told them how we get, not get sometimes the chance to sit down just for a little or sometimes we makeup artists get offered nothing, we never expect anything, but when it comes up by surprise, when our clients offer us water, coffee, or even something to eat, it really means the world to us. so, for me being at that table and interacting with my clients was a very touching moment. once the bride was back from running the quick errand it was time for us to get back up and get back to work, My client sat on my chair, i comforted her a little, telling her that I would be verifying steps with her along the way, that there was nothing to worry about, if she had a concern or question, to please let me know so I can fix anything that looked different or off. she said okay and we carried on, mid-session that’s when we really started getting to know each other more, she expressed how she would’ve wished her mother who’d passed away could’ve been present on the day of her daughter’s wedding, when she told me this I felt something heavy, but I couldn’t let my client have this thought affect her peace, so I tried my best turning this sensitive moment into a more comforting moment, explaining to her that her mom was here in this room with us and she was most definitely witnessing her daughter getting ready for this very special day, that she would be here today, that she would feel her presence, wherever and whenever she needed her most. she would be there… she then stopped me and said “hay Aylin, you don’t know how happy I am that I met you including everyone else helping me on my wedding day making it possible like a dream come true. I believe my mother put you, the videographer and hair lady in my path, because meeting you people has made me feel very loved today, and at peace knowing I still carry a stone on my back, but I know my mom just only wants the best for me today and just wants to see me happy.” I eventually finished her makeup, handed her over the mirror, and she said “I appreciate you so much Aylin. you’ve made me feel my prettiest on my wedding day.” I’m not just a makeup artist who does your makeup and then disappears. I take pride in my craft and skills, ensuring that I understand and meet your needs. I hear you and get you. I am always there for you, even in last-minute emergencies. that’s me, Beauty by Aylin at your service. My goal is to provide a professional and personalized experience every time.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

I have learned that makeup has become a huge part of my life. I have developed a deep passion for and have gained a lot of skills and knowledge in the process of making. Doing makeup is the kind of job that I can do endlessly and forever without any cost or problem. It’s my passion, something I’ve learned to give with love, confidence, beauty, and a touch of magic.

Just like I’ve mentioned in my last answers. I’ve come to realize that I found my purpose and passion from these three key points of realization.
1: Getting a taste of the adrenaline from being called for makeup: This is that initial rush of excitement when you get the call to start a job. It’s the anticipation and energy that comes with the beginning of a creative process. It’s thrilling because you know you’re about to transform someone’s look and boost their confidence.

2: The peace and concentration during the process of the artwork form: This is the calm, focused phase where you’re deeply concentrated on your work. You’re carefully applying your techniques, blending colors, and paying attention to every detail. It’s also meditative, as you see your efforts start to come together and create something beautiful.

3: The feeling of “my work is done here” seeing the outcome and admiring my masterpiece: This is the final stage where you step back and admire your completed work, it’s incredibly satisfying to see the transformation and know that you’ve made someone feel amazing. The phrase “Chef’s kiss” perfectly captures that moment of pride and accomplishment!

once you feel that something speaks to you, and you feel that you actually enjoy. listen to your intuition, listen to that little voice that speaks to you, then you’ll know.

Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?

In the past twelve months, my most significant area of growth has been in perfecting my skills and expanding my knowledge of new techniques in doing makeup. I’ve dedicated myself to understanding the latest trends and products to provide my clients with the best possible service. Additionally, I’ve enhanced my ability to listen to and understand my clients’ unique needs, and ensure a more personalized and professional experience. My business has grown in all aspects, from upgraded materials, and new knowledge to perfecting my craft, and better customer service communication. This year has truly been an eye-opener and a year of learning. I’m truly thankful for all the obstacles that come my way, even if they can be a bit challenging those were the moments I will forever and always cherish. They were the ones that have taught me a thing or two. And can teach you too if you have the patience to learn something new every day.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://beautybyaylin.square.site/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR363eLrfl7AhAdoWQqmiG3ms55FLi_eJYei83Mn0s1dkVbveOdFFWqAg2s_aem_Jo-q5yks51HPKdJ40qVpAA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beauty.byaylin/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083059884854

Image Credits

Photoshoot image credits to @suzethphotography

Website link page- https://www.instagram.com/suzethphotography/