We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ashley Ladd. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ashley below.
Ashley , so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
Starting off, the beauty of confidence lies in its mystery of authenticity.
Just like many others, I have faced imposter syndrome in the past and occasionally still do. In my experience, what boosts my confidence in both myself and my work is surrounding myself with hardworking individuals who are devoted to self-improvement and support me. This environment has kept me driven to excel and enabled me to witness undeniable progress in my business. Being backed by strong and motivating individuals who believe in you and offer encouraging words works wonders. Connecting with such a supportive community, is truly crucial. I am a note taker, I have journaled my goals and it’s absolutely confidence boosting to see where I started and it’s motivation to see how far I can go.
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?
As a freelance makeup artist with nearly 14 years of experience in the industry, I specialize in bridal makeup and offer a diverse range of services, including commercial work, boudoir, headshots, portraits, classes, and more. Art and interacting with people have always been my passions. When I discovered makeup artistry, it seamlessly blended both these worlds. Building meaningful connections with clients and photographers and being part of their significant moments is a cherished aspect of my career that I deeply value. The makeup artistry field is constantly evolving and expanding, which I find exciting. There are always new techniques to master, new clients to meet, and since makeup has no strict rules, there are endless opportunities to challenge yourself creatively.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Having a passion for art has truly been beneficial for me. I was captivated by color theory and the ability to manipulate light, shadow, and products to alter shapes. I was instantly drawn to this aspect and that knowledge was hugely beneficial for me.
I believe that both humility and adaptability are crucial in this industry. I am grateful for the mentors I have had who generously shared their time and knowledge. Regardless of my experience in this field, I recognize the importance of continuous growth. There are always fresh techniques, products, and marketing strategies emerging for visibility. I find inspiration in new artists and am eager to learn from them. It’s an honor for me to mentor the upcoming generation of artists and vice versa. There is space for all of us to thrive and learn together. Supporting each other is vital for success.
Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?
I adore my job, and I feel incredibly lucky to be situated in a location that is highly focused on small businesses. The power of word-of-mouth has truly been a blessing for me. I am grateful for the supportive community of photographers, clients, and peers who consistently refer me, keeping my schedule full and bustling. Being part of a network of inspiring women-owned small businesses keeps me motivated and engaged. While all this support is fantastic, it is clear that the future of visibility and advertising lies in content creation – be it through Reels, highlights, or videos. Currently, my focus is not directed towards this aspect of my business, but I recognize that I will need to shift my attention very soon. It’s a new territory for me to explore. I have already outlined an action plan and set goals to navigate this transition, with content coaching sessions scheduled in the near future. Balancing my time effectively will be a key part of this challenge as I delve into this new realm.
Contact Info:
- Website: Ashleyladdmakeupartistry.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashladdmua?igsh=MWw1bWQzaHNkYmU0cw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/amtn8BRFsuetxrA7/?mibextid=dGKdO6
