Today we’d like to introduce you to Suneera Kayani.
Suneera, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I grew up in Sydney, Australia and by profession am an Orthoptist (and so have always worked at an eye clinic). My passion for makeup really started with learning how to apply it to myself. I wanted to learn all about flawless foundation, radiant skin, smoky eyes and contouring. Before long, I found myself doing makeup on friends and family, and I knew I was hooked. I found myself learning new techniques and trying out new styles. In 2017, we moved to Austin, Texas, and for the first time, I opened up a makeup studio specifically for Asian brides in our new home. I also started giving classes for beginners – very similar to the ones that I had taken when I began my makeup journey. I wanted to show others everything from basic makeup essentials to seeing beyond the marketing hype when it came to product selection. I loved every minute of it. I had to take a break from my makeup studio after my twins were born in 2019, but continued scratching my makeup itch by working at MAC cosmetics. I finally had to take a longer break after COVID hit in 2020. I have recently started a beauty blog on Instagram and will be sharing some makeup techniques, best products out there and much more till I am back-hopefully by next year!
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?
Overall, it’s been a smooth road. In my experience, when you’re passionate about what you do, you tend to have fun and not focus on bumps in the road. That said, with young children, things do get challenging at times. I remember when my twins were three months old and I had to travel to do a bride’s makeup. Since I had committed a year beforehand. Thankfully, after calling in some favors with friends, it all worked out where everybody was happy – my client and the twins. The other challenge in the makeup industry is to stay current with skills. Both products and techniques are constantly evolving, and I’ve had to spend many a late night practicing makeup or taking new virtual courses after the kids go to sleep. In those times, passion helps see things through!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a makeup artist, I specialize in Asian bridal makeup. I have also worked on locations for fashion shows, photography (modeling, maternity and engagements). I believe I’m appreciated by my clients for two things: my signature bridal eye makeup and flawless glowing skin. I also listen to my clients and try to give them exactly what they want, since this is their special moment. It completely makes my day and fills me with pride when my clients are overjoyed with how they look.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I have to give a shout out to my husband Hasnain. He has been super supportive from the beginning. In fact, it’s because of his support that I started my makeup studio in the first place since he consoled me that it was okay to leave all the time and effort I had put into Orthoptics behind to follow my love and passion for makeup.
My in-laws have been very supportive as well. There were times when we were overseas and I wanted to do a makeup course, learning from the incredible pool of makeup talent in Asia. The support and motivation I’ve received from them has always been amazing.
My parents and my sister have always supported me in whatever I’ve done. They have been a pillar of strength for me. I regularly call my sister to pass things by her: different makeup looks, Instagram ideas, and so on.
Once I started my makeup studio in Austin, my friends were also very supportive and cheered me on. It’s really uplifting when your friends root for you. I regularly and unashamedly bug them for advice and will continue to do so :).
Contact Info:
- Email: suneeramakeupstudio@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suneera.makeupstudio/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suneera.makeupstudio/
