Today we’d like to introduce you to Loren Armour
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My interest in the makeup and beauty industry didn’t truly begin until I was in my twenties. Growing up, my mom was such a prissy girl in every aspect; hair, makeup, skincare and anything beauty related. She never left the house without mascara or lipstick, so that was also her motto to me when I became a teenager. At home, I would hear mom telling me to put some mascara on my long eyelashes, and at school I would the girls pack on the makeup- I wanted nothing to do with it! I always wanted to look like myself, so a little eyeliner and lip gloss was as good as it was going to get with me. However, I did have the desire to become a cosmetologist. By the time I contemplated on getting my cos license, I had just had a baby and did not want to sacrifice my time with her beyond working my job. I had to work to support myself, so I stayed in the “safe” lane of working a 9-5. Fast forward to my twenties, I was searching YouTube on how to safely bleach my hair because I wanted to go blonde. YouTube doing what it does, I got sucked into watching the recommended videos (LOL). One of the videos was from a Makeup Artist named, Eman, and her makeup style instantly attracted me to her page. Her application was so flawless and natural with an effortlessly beautiful finish. From that point, I was hooked. I watched hours and hours of makeup videos, which eventually birthed the idea of “I want to try that”. I began practicing on myself, friends and anyone that would let me. I eventually began to charge and market myself as a Professional Makeup Artist, doing makeup for special occasions and bridal parties. I was still working a corporate job at the time, so makeup was a side hustle. The more I did makeup, the more my desire grew to take it to the next level. Skincare was also important to me, so I also felt that it was important to expand my portfolio to obtain an Esthetician license. The obstacle at the time was that I was working full time, and going to school during the day was not possible. Just when I had become extremely burnt out from my job, God made a way for me. I was laid off from my job of 7 years. I took that opportunity to go to Esthetician school, and obtain my license. The rest, as they say, is history!
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 definitely has not been a smooth road. I wanted to work for MAC when I first got started (I think every MUA started or wanted to start there), but I did not have the sales background at the time nor did I have the interest in selling the makeup. I just wanted to do the makeup without the pressure of sales. I continued with self teaching, practicing and educating myself on makeup. As far as the utilization of my esthetician license goes, I only worked at one waxing salon fresh out of school. From that point on, I’ve gone the entrepreneurial route working solely for myself. As anyone knows, being an entrepreneur in any industry has many ups and downs.The ups are great when they’re great. But the slow seasons have gotten very tough. From working 2 jobs to support myself through slow clientele seasons, to putting the money you make into keeping my business afloat. There are a lot of struggles along the way, but doing something that I’m passionate about is what keeps me going.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a Professional Makeup Artist, Licensed Esthetician and owner of Quenched Beauty Bar. I specialize in soft glam makeup artistry, lash extensions and brow waxing. I believe what sets me apart is my passion to enhance the beauty of women of all ages, not to change it. My goal always is to help my client look like her best self, while creating a relaxing and personalized experience. Working in the customer service and corporate world for many years, has also been instrumental in ensuring that I provide the best customer service as much as possible. The thing that I am most proud of is that I’ve never quit. Building clientele, creating connections, building a space with my own money, it has been very hard. But God has sustained me. The ability to persevere and not give up, I humbly pat myself on the back.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I rarely wear makeup anymore, nor have I ever had lash extensions! I love them both, but I simply do not have time for neither. Don’t get me wrong, I wear makeup and an occasional strip lash if I have the need to get dolled up. Other than that, you will catch me bare faced.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://quenchedbeauty.as.me/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/100550479022151/quenched-beauty-bar/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Quenched-Beauty-Bar/100072131586844/
- Other: quenchedbeautybar@gmail.com
