We had the good fortune of connecting with Alexis Cali and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alexis, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my business was making sure that I followed through with my entire business plan. Making sure that I gave it 100 percent and if I don’t live the day to see my brand flourish then at-least I’ll be creating a head start for my family.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
In the Real World, I am identified as an Artistic Makeup Artist, but in the Makeup World I am just a Basic Makeup Artist. The fact that I’m a MUA who isn’t obsessed with Makeup, it makes me an “outcast” in the industry. The biggest challenge was becoming “That Girl” not just to my clients but to the entire Beauty Industry and that isn’t easy. It’s like trying to balance owning who you are and pleasing the viewers. The fact that I stayed focused and critiqued myself was to create my own lane in beauty. Simplicity is my honest perspective on makeup and that what truly makes me different. It sets me apart from others because I am indeed that average girl who loves to look pretty but loves her natural features even more. I understand that makeup is used to enhance and slightly trick the eye, not recreate. I’m most proud of understanding who I am as an Artist and finding exactly who my audience is. I’ve learned that if you get natural attention, those people like you for YOU. So get comfortable with being who it is you are. I want the world to know that I am living proof that you can start any business with just a vision, God, and determination. If you’re not being recognized or rated high enough, its not that your any less great, you’re just UNDERRATED.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m from Paterson, New Jersey so my city is literally no more than 30 mins from all of the action. When my friends & I link we make sure we get a good drink and vibe from a local lounge/restaurant in Montclair named “Antika” ! They have great drinks, food, and music 7 days a week. I usually work a lot but my shop is the same vibe as hanging out with a bunch of ladies and getting them pretty for the night. Paterson has a park near the top of the mountains by the name of Garrett Mountain, and if you’re in the city that is the perfect spot to chat, check out the view, and maybe even cook out.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Besides the fact that God has played the biggest role in of my journey, he was wise enough to send someone I didn’t think I needed. He sent my Father. I have to give a huge shoutout to my Dad ! My dad is literally the definition of “Underrated”. He’s that one person we all know who is super talented but its like the world would never know. He helps me bring a lot of my ideas to life so he pretty much lives through me.

Website: theunderratedexperience.com

Instagram: @_AlexisCali

Youtube: Alexis Cali

Image Credits
Photos by Kayla

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