Today we’d like to introduce you to Emma Shepherd.
Hi Emma, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I started modeling for makeup classes to make extra money (I was interning for a wardrobe stylist at the time.) It was a whole new concept to find out that makeup artistry was even a job! Eventually, I decided to take the classes myself. It happened so organically, but I fell in love with doing it.
When I wanted to venture into owning my own makeup business, I had to get a license in Aesthetics. Once I started school, I really enjoyed treating skin. I finally had the realization that I could put the two together. Surely makeup clients would love to be able to get facial, lash, or brow services and vice versa!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has definitely not been smooth, but I don’t think starting a business could be. The biggest struggle has been learning the administrative and marketing side of the business. That can be a full-time job and doesn’t even include the time spent working on clients. Then add on continuing education in such a fast-paced industry to stay relevant!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about The Emma Kat Makeup Artistry and Esthetics?
As a pro makeup artist, I specialize in natural, glowy glam looks. I have done all styles of makeup for over a decade now. “Soft glam” has definitely become what I am known for, and what I enjoy doing the most! I do a lot of event and photoshoot makeup. Some runway when I can!
As an esthetician, I specialize in skin therapy and the treatment of disorders. I have a full facial menu that includes dermaplaning, chemical peels, facial massage, extractions, and acne treatments. I also offer lash lift and tint, lash extensions, brow henna, and facial waxing.
Being able to offer both facial esthetic services and makeup allows me to work closely with clients leading up to event days like weddings or photoshoots. I am able to customize a skincare, lash, and brow regimen leading up to doing their glam. Then we have the perfect canvas for makeup the day of!
I get to work on moms, dads, realtors, lawyers, newscasters, athletes, brides, and everyone in between to help them look and feel their best. It’s such a rewarding job, and always something different!
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My clients allow me to keep doing what I love for a living. I meet the nicest, most supportive people. They are loyal, share my posts, recommend me to friends and family, and include me in big parts of their life. During the pandemic, they bought gift cards to keep supporting me during the shutdown. They sent presents and sweet messages when I had my son and patiently waited while I took maternity leave.
Last May I opened my first studio, and have been booked consistently at least two weeks out from the start…it is amazing. I treasure the connections that I get to make while doing what I am passionate about!
My biggest cheerleader is my husband. We have been together since we were 16, and he has seen me develop and evolve my life goals so much. He never once doubted me! I think he always has more confidence in me than I do in myself. I quit two full-time jobs with benefits to start doing freelance makeup jobs, and it required him to make sacrifices and work extra hours. That gave me even more determination to make my business work.
Pricing:
- Makeup Applications start at $70
- Facials and Skin Treatments start at $81
- Brow Henna and Wax is $52
- Lash services start at $75
Contact Info:
- Website: theemmakat.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/the_emma_kat
- Facebook: facebook.com/tekmakeupandskin
- Other: theemmakat on TikTok
Image Credits
DK Creative
