We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Darcy Harrington. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Darcy below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Darcy with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
I’d say my work ethic comes from watching my father start a business on his own as pool man. He worked 7 days a week while trying to raise 5 kids
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I do professional makeup and hair styling, specializing in Bridal, Commercial, & Magazine Shoots. As far as makeup I am known for creating both natural and soft glam looks. I specialize in hot tools, blowouts, and bridal hair styling. I accept individual clients as well as group events. I’ve worked on set with Magnetic Creative Productions, doing commercials for Chilis Restaurant, Naturvet, Nexgrill, Alma Lasers, and Brave Books. I’ve done makeup for the cover of San Diego Women’s Magazine, and Exploring Lafayette Life Financial magazine. My work has been seen on the face of professional athlete, Kerri Walsh Jennings. I’m very proud of all these accomplishments, and I’m most proud of the fact that never giving up on myself is what led me to all these memorable experiences. I followed my heart, took a leap of faith and trusted myself. I went all or nothing on my craft and it’s taken me to places I’ve dreamed of. I think what sets me apart from others is my ability to be open minded with other artist, and humbly learn from everyone I meet. Whether an artist is just starting out, or they’ve been an artist for 25 years I know there is something to learn. As a person I accept everyone for who they are, and try to truly connect with all my clients. I appreciate greatly anyone who allows me the opportunity to work with them, and feel so blessed that my artistry can make a difference in my community and the lives of others.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
I think most importantly would be to have an open mindset, say yes to everything, and any interested client. Even if I wasn’t 100% confident approaching a job, I’d still say yes because I knew it was the only way to learn more, and to gain that confidence. When you have openness to grow you learn new tricks and skills with each challenge you are presented. I practiced a lot on doll heads, I did a ton of free work, and I stayed true to myself always while building up my clientele. I never compare my work to others. Everyone is on their own journey as artists and everyone approaches their canvas in a way that works for them. My advice to new artists is to never give up even when you’re feeling discouraged because there will be times when you feel defeat. In those times, do everything you can to stay engaged with your craft and lean on others that have been in the industry for a long time. Say yes to every opportunity at your door, say yes to learning, and focus on enjoying the moment in your artistry. Authenticity and a willingness to grow will take you far.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
My ideal client is someone who gives me free range. Hair and makeup is an art and when you give the artist freedom in their vision, you empower them to simply create. When a client gives me full trust as an artist there is this certain flow with my hand. I’ve noticed any time I have free range both the client and myself are extremely satisfied with the end result. Fortunately, most of my clients are this way. I have been blessed with a kind, compassionate, and respectful clientele. My chair is a safe space for clients and we create a bond through each unique process. I’ve been fortunate enough to make life long friends from my clientele, and have been able to celebrate different life milestones with them as well.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.alainnartistry.com
- Instagram: Alainnxartistry
Image Credits
Sabrina Lynn Photography
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