Meet Ashley Mims: Professional Makeup Artist

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

Hi Ashley, we’d love to start by asking you about lessons learned. Is there a lesson you can share with us?
So many I could name. lol But the most important lesson that I’ve learned in my career as a Professional Makeup Artist, is that it is okay to fail. It’s perfectly okay if I don’t have it ALL figured out. Hell, who does? I’ve learned to allow myself space and time to learn and grow through the journey. I’m a Virgo so I’m naturally over-critical of myself, but I’ve learned to not be so harsh and just go with the flow! lol

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I don’t think anyone has it easy in business lol, but I just try to remember my “Why”. I began my makeup journey because I struggled so much with bullying growing up. Being called black (because I’m dark-skinned) or ugly by my peers used to really get to me. As I got older, and started working on self-healing, makeup gave me a sense of confidence that I never felt before. I wanted to share that feeling with other girls and women that might be struggling personally with their own self-esteem and inspire them to step outside of their comfort zone and explore what the beauty world has to offer. I enjoy being apart of providing my clients with a true experience that will have them feeling amazing as well as looking amazing. Sometimes, that might also require me being a listening ear, or giving feedback when asked. I really take care of my beauties and enjoy building those long lasting connections. I’m most excited about just continuing to soak up as much business and beauty industry knowledge as possible. I’m also building my professional/editorial portfolio as well as branding my Bridal artistry as a separate entity so more to come on that. 🙂

I got where I am today by being myself wholeheartedly, investing in education & business tools, working hard, taking time for family/self-care, and really just accepting what is and what will be. lol I don’t sweat the things that I can’t control and instead of crumbling in the face of an obstacle, I try to figure out how to PIVOT. It’s all about finding that balance.
The journey definitely has had its tough moments, but I wouldn’t change a thing. Everyday is a continuous growth and learning process and I’m proud of my resilience in the face of many obstacles along the way and my ability to still stand strong despite them.

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 am a real life homebody. lol But I do have a few places that I’ve been since moving here 3 years ago and a long list of places that I’ve been wanting to check out!

-I absolutely love Ponce City Market/ The Skyline so that would definitely be a recommendation.
-Little 5 Points has so many amazing restaurants and locally owned businesses. The OutKast Mural is in that area and it is absolutely worth visiting.
– Atlantic Station is pretty dope as well with the Movie theater, shopping, and restaurants.
-Not many people will say this, but I love going to West End/Westside. lol It’s so beautiful to me with all of the art murals and there’s culture at every turn. I love it. lol
-The Museum of High Art is an amazing experience.
– The Culture Experience (I have tickets for May and I can’t wait to go!)
– Six Flags is always a vibe.
– Any Culture Festival is a vibe.
– Pride Festival
– Aquarium or Zoo
– I love the different parks with hiking trails or rivers/waterfalls if you’re an outdoor person like me.

As an artist, I love anything crafty. So any type of sip and paint, candle making classes, pottery classes, etc. I recently found a place called SpinArt that looks interesting.
When it comes to food, I’ve found that the locally owned restaurants do it better than the big named franchises so I recommend anything locally owned and operated!
I recently tried a brunch spot called “Another Broken Egg” that was sooo good. lol

Atlanta has so much to offer, it’s hard to compile a list. I say just get out and explore!!! The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I love this!! Omg I have so many people that have contributed to my journey!

FIRST…..GOD. He is the head of everything in my life.

– My amazing girlfriend Ces has been by my side for 4 of my 6 year career and she has definitely supported & contributed to my business in more ways than one! From traveling with me to assist with bookings, to the late night break downs and crying sessions. lol She’s the real MVP for dealing with my madness. lol
-My mom and dad, Erma & Eddie, for always being in my corner and taking care of my son Kayden for me when I travel or just need a mental break. I don’t know where I’d be without their support.
– My son Kayden, for loving me unconditionally and growing with me the past 12 years. My BIGGEST motivator. <3

-My gorgeous Bridal Biz mentor, Bee Gandy (B.ForBeaute). A black woman in the beauty business that has inspired me so much and has helped me groom my bridal business.
– My amazing artist community and family in the iArtist Mentorship Program with TheMakeupShow organization! So much encouragement creatively and support from artists around the world! Interacting with other artists and sharing mindset ideas has helped my growth as an artist and I absolutely LOVE being apart of the community!
-My new family at Expensive Skin Studios where everyone has been so welcoming and encouraging and have made me feel right at home!!!

And lastly, all of my friends, extended family, and beautiful clients that have been rocking with me since 2015.
I appreciate each & every last one of these people. <3

Website: www.anicoleartistrymua.com

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