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

Hi Ashlyn, what’s the end goal, career-wise?
Ideally, my end goal career-wise is to have a few studios where anyone can learn all the things necessary to further their career as a makeup artist. From various techniques and must haves for your kit to set etiquette. These locations would also be used as photography studios and venues to hold networking events to connect other creatives. Alongside these studios, I would like to have a few big clients, whom I travel with. Lastly, I would like to have a successful makeup line in addition to my skincare line that is available in various widely known beauty stores.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When I decided that I no longer desired to be a fashion designer, I thought about what else I wanted to do that was in the creative field. I was starting to play with makeup more and found that I really enjoyed it and wanted to see where I could take it. So I packed my things, shipped my car and booked a flight to the place I thought would open the door to being a Makeup Artist…LA. It definitely was not easy, however, persistence and ambition drove me to where I am. I constantly networked and took any gig that I could find to build my portfolio, client base and network. What I think sets me apart, it’s my work ethic and the natural makeup look I provide to my clients. Glam but still you. Something I often get complimented on. A lesson I was happy to learn early on is you never know who your client knows. LA is such a small place and everyone is somehow connected in one way or another. Always be professional, punctual and kind because that could land you your next gig or it could kill it. I want the world to know that I’m always learning and perfecting new things about my craft and I am ready for what’s next!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my friend was coming in town, I would first take her to grab a bite to eat. One of my favorite sushi spots is Kazu Nori in DTLA or Taisho in Sherman Oaks. After digesting all that good food, a spa day at Raya Spa is just what the doctor ordered. We’ve got to hit up the beach, so Laguna is definitely on the list. Brunch at Ysabel is a must and dinner at the Cara Hotel will definitely give us that ig photo op. These are a few of my favorite places to go in LA.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I have to shoutout and thank my mom. She has been my biggest supporter from day one. Her constant encouragement has helped me get to where I am today. I also want to give a shoutout to TriDestined Studios. They basically introduced me to working on film and tv productions. They also introduced me to a lot of the talent I am proud to say I’ve worked with. I have definitely learned a lot working with that and for that I’m blessed.

Website: www.ashlynayers.com

Instagram: @ashlynayersmua

Linkedin: Ashlyn Ayers

Twitter: @ashlynayersmua

Facebook: Facebook.com/AshlynAyers

Image Credits
Matt Jong @mattjongphoto Gianna Dorsey @giannasnapped

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.