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Conversations with Saranya Ramesh

Today we’d like to introduce you to Saranya Ramesh

Hi Saranya, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Art has been a part of me for as long as I can remember. As a child, I loved painting realistic art pieces, and that passion naturally led me to the world of makeup. I admired the work of other makeup artists but never imagined I would become one myself. My career initially took a different path—I worked as an engineer at a reputed firm in India. However, deep down, I always knew I wanted a career that truly fulfilled me. While I had dreamed of pursuing makeup artistry, the thought of starting my own business felt daunting.

In 2018, everything changed when my roommate got married. She trusted me to do her bridal makeup, even though I had only the basics to work with. I spent weeks practicing and perfecting her look, determined to make her big day special. The wedding day was stressful and exhausting, yet I felt an immense sense of satisfaction. That was my turning point—I knew I had to take my passion seriously. I started working as a self-taught freelance makeup artist, taking on multiple jobs and refining my craft with each client.

In 2023, I made the bold decision to leave my full-time job and move to the U.S. Since then, I’ve connected with talented artists and continued to grow in my artistry. For me, makeup is more than just a business—it’s a form of artistic expression and a way to bring joy to others. My ultimate goal is to ensure that every person who sits in my chair walks away feeling confident, beautiful, and reassured that they made the right choice in trusting me.

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?
Starting any business is never as effortless as it may seem online, and self-doubt often creeps in along the way. When I first began in 2018, balancing my full-time engineering job with my passion for makeup was quite challenging. Juggling both meant working weekdays at my job while dedicating evenings to practice and weekends to client bookings. Despite the hectic schedule, I found immense joy in it. However, restarting my journey as a freelance makeup artist in a completely new country brought a fresh set of challenges, with adapting to an unfamiliar environment being the biggest hurdle.

As a self-taught makeup artist, continuous learning is essential. Staying updated with new skills, evolving techniques, and emerging trends is crucial to meeting diverse client expectations, which requires extensive time and effort in research and hands-on practice. Additionally, running a business isn’t just about artistry—marketing is equally important. Social media management, in particular, plays a vital role, demanding constant updates and engagement to reach the right audience.

I regularly experiment with various skin types, tones, undertones, and textures to refine my craft. Makeup artistry is all about working with different canvases, and mastering that aspect is key to excelling in this field. While running a business comes with ongoing challenges, I don’t see them as roadblocks but rather as opportunities for growth. Every experience teaches me something new, shaping me into a more skilled and knowledgeable artist.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a makeup artist, I offer a diverse range of services tailored to various events, including bridal, editorial, and film projects. While I specialize in soft glam looks that subtly enhance natural features, I also enjoy creating bold and dramatic styles upon request. My approach emphasises the philosophy that “less is more,” aiming to highlight each client’s unique beauty without over-modifying their appearance.

What distinguishes my work is a commitment to inclusivity and personalised service. I’ve had the privilege of working with clients from various ethnic backgrounds, which has enriched my understanding of different skin tones, types, and textures. This experience allows me to customise each look to the individual’s specific needs, ensuring they feel confident and radiant on their special day.

I’m particularly proud of the warm connections I establish with my clients. Each session is an opportunity to not only apply makeup but also to share stories and build relationships. The trust my clients place in me is invaluable, and their satisfaction reinforces my passion for this art form.

How do you define success?
Success is a deeply personal journey, and its definition varies for everyone. For me, success has never been about wealth, status, or being the best at everything I do. Instead, I view success as achieving a sense of balance in all aspects of life—physical health, mental well-being, family connections, friendships, and professional growth. True success is not measured by external validation but by the ability to maintain harmony in these key areas while staying true to oneself.

I believe that no amount of professional achievements can truly be fulfilling if other areas of life are neglected. Prioritizing self-care, nurturing meaningful relationships, and creating a sustainable work-life balance are essential to long-term happiness and fulfillment. My career as a makeup artist brings me joy, but what makes me feel truly successful is knowing that I can pursue my passion while still making time for my loved ones and personal well-being.

Looking back, I feel incredibly grateful for where I am today. In my own terms, I consider myself successful because I have built a life that aligns with my values. Every day, I strive to grow, learn, and uplift those around me while ensuring that I am mentally and physically at peace. Success, for me, is not a final destination but an ongoing journey of maintaining balance and contentment in all aspects of life.

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