Meet Styanda Sha’Niece | Makeup Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Styanda Sha’Niece and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Styanda, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Life is all about risks, as they say “the bigger the risk, the bigger the reward.” Taking risks and walking on faith is literally what’s gotten me this far. I first got interested in the beauty industry for real while in college studying business management/psychology, after really indulging in makeup and realizing that was my true passion I took the risk of dropping out, going to beauty school and working at a well known beauty counter. Once receiving my esthetics license I then took the risk of leaving my job at the beauty counter and working for myself as a full time makeup artist. I went over this decision in my mind for MONTHS before, deciding whether it would be a good idea, wondering if I could really do it, and thinking of all the things that could go wrong. Most days I talked myself out of it, but eventually I grew tired of the same day routine, and my work not being appreciated. Once I took the risk, I immediately started to see the reward, and it has been far more fulfilling than I imagined.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I feel what sets me apart from others is my diversity in the type of work I produce. I don’t stick myself into just one category of makeup. I’ve done stage makeup, special effects, weddings, soft everyday glam, editorial, etc. and I honestly enjoy them all! It definitely wasn’t easy to get where I am today, it took a lot of mental and physical determination, constant self reassurance, and overall hard work. I remember when I was first trying to gain clientele, I literally spent my last on flyers and I drove around to different malls, salons, and areas where my select clientele would be and I ran around parking lots sticking flyers to every post, or car in site. I spent hours on social media looking for the perfect models and even offering services for free, anything that helped get my name out there.

I’ve learned so many lessons over time, the biggest being, as long as YOU believe in yourself the rest will come with it. Someone who is confident in what they do will always win the room versus someone who is more hesitant. People will be more drawn to listen to what you have to say and will put more trust into you when they feel you know exactly what you’re doing.

I want the world to know that when it comes to my brand, I do this because I love it. I love making people feel like their best selves, I love to see the excitement on their faces as they are walking out the door, and I love the confidence boost it gives them. I don’t just do this for money, and I definitely do do it just for me.

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?
To be honest, Charleston doesn’t have too many things to do but it does have its hidden gems. To start of their trip, I’d probably suggest we start the evening off at Vibez for the best hookah, food, and drinks and literally just vibe out. Then I’d suggest we sit out on the beach and just talk, reflect, and enjoy the views. At some point we could have some kid like fun at the ice palace (literally my favorite place, lol) where we could ice skate, and enjoy some arcade games and then enjoy the night out on the town on downtown king street.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My number one supporter had always and will forever be my mother, everything I have done and continue to do belongs to her. The real shout-out belongs to you! I also wouldn’t be here today without the support of those once “strangers” that have turned into clients, and supporters. Thank you guys for giving me a chance and believing in me!

Website: https://dolledbysty.as.me/

Instagram: @dvlledbystyshaniece

Twitter: @suchadvll

Facebook: Styanda Sha’Niece MUA

Other: Tik tok: Stythemua