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

Hi Grace, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
My favorite quote is “the privilege of a lifetime is being who you are.” I think this is so affirming to me because so often we look at the work we do or how we live our lives and question whether or not it’s valuable. But it’s such a privilege to be living, to be able to create, to be our most authentic selves- we should take full advantage of it. There is only one You, and you should try to love that person just as they were created.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have loved learning makeup over the years, and I think what really makes me proudest is knowing how much time I spent perfecting the craft before I presented myself as a professional. I wanted to make sure I had the tools needed to apply makeup to anyone that asked me to do so. I spent the first 5-6 years of my makeup experience learning how to perfect techniques on myself. Following that, I got my makeup certification at Industry Makeup Academy, and have been certified for a year now. It’s been a really fun journey learning how to grow my own brand and how to run my own business, but it’s definitely been tough to learn as well. At first I had a tough time pricing my work because I didn’t want to overcharge my clients. However, I’ve realized over time how valuable my work is, as well as the quality of my customer service. With this in mind, I’ve been able to set up a price range that suits the clients I’m working with and my own time and work. My goal with my artistry is to encourage people to try fun and exciting makeup, while also supporting them with what they’re comfortable with. Everyone deserves to feel beautiful in their own skin, and makeup is a way to explore that!

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 I brought a friend to Atlanta, I would give them a ton of things to do. We would definitely have to visit my favorite restaurants- Buttermilk Kitchen, No Mas Cantina, Julianna’s Crepes, Rosa’s Pizza, Brew and Bird, Apres Diem, Java Jive, The Big Ketch, etc, etc. I love food. I would also take them to some of my favorite parks: Centennial Park, Piedmont Park, and the areas surrounding Woodruff Park. I might also take them to see a show at Synchronicity Theatre (where I intern), walk through Midtown, or visit Little Five Points. To end the week, I would make sure we did at least one late night drive through downtown to see all of the beautiful buildings at nighttime.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are several people/organizations I could dedicate to my success. My family comes to mind first, as they have always pushed me to be myself and work for what I want. Their support has been essential for my growth and positive self-image. I also have to thank the community of people I’ve come to find at Georgia State University. I have found so many co-workers, colleagues, and friends through the university that have broadened my view of the world and forced me think outside the box.

Instagram: https://instagram.com/madewith.grace_?igshid=vueq70ht4iar

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracedavenport

Image Credits
Lauryn Wellington

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