Today we’d like to introduce you to Ocian Olaudah.
Hi Ocian , it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
As a young child I actually was never into beauty. I played lots of sports and was always hanging out with my brother and his friends. I dont think it was until I realized I was actually good at it, that I grew a strong passion for it. I have always been drawn to creativity and personal expression so it just made sense when I started doing my own makeup that was complex and out of the box if you will. What started as something I really enjoyed just doing for myself like experimenting with colors, designs, and different products just to take pictures for Instagram, turned into something I realized I could build a career around. I practiced, learned various techniques, and just put myself out there to receive opportunities to gain some real experience. As I began growing in my craft, I became especially interested in the styling of it all-editorial photoshoots, fashion shows, music videos and other art that creates a complete visual concept as opposed to just doing someone’s makeup. Honestly, every opportunity has taught me something new and its rare I say no to something that won’t challenge me because I’m always looking for ways to grow in this business as things are ever-changing. Where I am today is the result of a combination of consistency, humility, originality, failure, the willingness to learn, and enthusiasm. As an artist, I am forever evolving but I’ve gone from simply loving makeup to intentionally building my own identity within this huge industry. As of now, I am focused on continuing to create, collaborate and eventually grow something that’s completely my own that I can share with others.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Building a business from scratch is never a smooth road and I never expected it to be. It has a lot to do with being eager to learn, especially if you’re completely self taught like myself. Constantly practicing the same thing over and over until you get it right, while simultaneously learning how to let your perfectionist mentality go was a big struggle for me. There were definitely many moments I questioned if I was even good enough to be doing this, or if my creativity was actually original or was going to be appreciated by people. But those tests only pushed me to be more disciplined and confident and remind myself that success rarely happens overnight and growth takes a lot of work and determination. I think the biggest thing that has kept me going is knowing that I have a vision for myself that’s bigger than how I started and even where I’m at right now.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a makeup artist and a hairstylist, I try to dabble in a little of everything- that includes makeup and hair for prom, weddings, galas and I’ll even do a funeral if they’re into that. I most enjoy doing services for runways, video and photoshoots, and really anything in between. I get such a thrill from the fast paced chaos and all the moving parts that come together to make something cool. To some I’m the beauty bestie, and to my family they know who to call when they’re having beauty trouble or even just a question about current beauty trends. I am most proud of how far I’ve come and the fact that I haven’t given up, when there’s been so many times Ive struggled with the thought of not making it in this industry. I think what sets me apart is the fact that I’m not scared to do things, I will try anything once and if it doesn’t work, we make something that does. I indulge in avant garde aspects and non conventional looks when it comes to styling.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memories are when me and all my siblings lived in the same house. I am the youngest of 5 and I didn’t have that for long, so I really cherish those moments with my loved ones.
Pricing:
- Makeup Lessons – $100/session
Contact Info:
- Website: https://glammedbygod.my.canva.site/personal-brand-portfolio-website-in-fuchsia-cream-classy-calligraphy-style
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glammedbygod
