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

Hi Nikia, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Being a “celebrity” makeup artist comes with so many perks and sacrifices. Being able to be creative, traveling, as well as meeting and working with so many wonderful iconic people. With me being married and being an extremely active mom with 2 small kids I have had to create a system that works for everyone in my household and sometimes that can be extremelyhectic. I was giving the opportunity this year to go on a 6 month tour which required me to be away from home 3-4 days a week. I almost declined because I had NEVER been away from my family that amount of time. My husband was actually the one to sit me down and tell me “Opportunities like this dont come often, I really think you should do it”. I took the opportunity and I am so happy I did! I was able to facetime with my family on days I was away so that helped alot. I think communication and SUPPORT helps out the most when it comes to balancing business life and personal life.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a professional self taught makeup artist that was born and raised in ATLANTA. I started doing makeup professionally in 2011 shortly after the birth of my son. I have always LOVED makeup but it was when I became a mom when I knew I wanted a CAREER not just a job. Stepping out on faith to pursue my career was not an easy task however it was the BEST decision I could have ever made. I wanted so many times to give up and just go get a job but I kept pushing. The biggest lesson I have learned is that everything is not PERSONAL when it comes to my business. I want the world to know that even through all of my obstacles I faced I was never defeated because “I NEVER GAVE UP”

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?
My go to place is usually Papadeaux for food and drinks, I absolutely love going to get manicures and pedicure. I have a new hobby of bike riding and going to the gun range.

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?
In 2019 I started my journey with Fox Television Network as a makeup artist for the television personalities on the show Dish Nation. During this time I was able to not only meet but do makeup for my favorite female rapper “Da Brat” and other amazing individuals. Not only is she by far one of the most down to earth, humble, kind and giving humans I have come across in a long time. I have also worked with her on projects outside of Dish Nation like photoshoots, Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta and Set It Off The Stageplay tour. These opportunities gave me the platform to meet other individuals in the industry. I am FOREVER grateful for her and anyone else who have supported me over the years.

Website: www.nikkismakeuplounge.com
Instagram: mrsmakeup_artist
Facebook: Nikki’s Makeup Lounge