Meet Tierra Jackson | Licensed Makeup Artist & Educator

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

Hi Tierra, what role has risk played in your life or career?
The key to success is taking risks. I’ve always believed that what separates successful people from unsuccessful ones is the willingness to take risks. Fearless ambition has always driven me—both in business and in life.

At 15 years old, I took a risk by becoming a full-time makeup artist with no prior work experience. At 20 years old, I took another leap, moving 700 miles away to a city where I had no friends, family, or clients—all to pursue my career.

Every goal I set for myself, I approach with confidence and determination. Regardless of the outcome, I find satisfaction in knowing that I gave it my all. After all, success isn’t just about income—it’s about having the courage to try. At 24 years old, I can attest that taking the risk paid off.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets me apart in the beauty industry is my personality and professionalism. I believe these two qualities play the biggest role in my ability to retain clients.

I often receive compliments from clients who leave reviews about their experience with me. They frequently mention how welcoming I am, how it feels like they’ve known me for years, and how kind and down-to-earth I am. Over the years, I’ve learned that success in this industry isn’t just about talent. While there are countless skilled beauty professionals, what the industry often lacks is professionalism and a genuine commitment to treating clients with respect and care.

This journey has not been easy. To new supporters, my success may seem like it happened overnight. However, I have dedicated 10 long years to working full-time in the beauty industry. I’ve endured the highs and lows—the busy seasons and the slow ones, the weeks with zero clients and the weeks with 40—by staying faithful to God and consistently praying over my business. I’ve learned to trust the process, embrace slow days as opportunities to refine my business, and use my downtime to celebrate with family and friends.

Throughout my career, I’ve learned two major lessons in the beauty industry. The first is to genuinely celebrate others while it’s their turn to shine. The second is to be ready and prepared when it’s your turn. Success comes to those who support others with faith that their own moment is on the way—and who stay ready so they don’t have to get ready. Living in Atlanta has reinforced this lesson, as opportunities can arise at any moment—you never know when a celebrity or major client might reach out the same day.

I want the world, especially every young girl, to know that if I can do it, so can you. I grew up in East Cleveland, OH, in a neighborhood plagued by poverty. Instead of becoming a product of my environment, I used my upbringing as motivation to push myself toward the best version of me. I didn’t jump into the industry with funding for my business but I have passion and that’s what took me far. I created my first makeup ring light out of a flower reef & neon led lights. That’s nothing but passion to get the job done.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Let’s start with – I’m a huge foodie! I loveeee food . I love to cook food and I love to fine dine and I even love to grab quick finger foods lol. I love all different ethnicity of food.

For Mexican Food , my go to spot will be Lachingada , Rreal Tacos , or Chipotle (you have to make sure you get the vinaigrette and Spicy Nacho Doritos)

For Jamaican , my go to spot is Chef Robs Kitchen

For Brunch, my go to is Toast on Lenox

For Thai food , my go to is Osha Thai

For Seafood , The Juicy Seafood is my go to

I loveee to cook a lot of seafood , soul food and comforting meals for my Husband & I .

Barbecuing will definitely be in the weekend plans. That’s one of our favorite things to do when it’s hot is to go on our rooftop grill and barbecue, listen to music and enjoy.

And if she’s there on a Sunday we are definitely going to Rum Punch Brunch to enjoy. My husband is French & African so I love going places that are a Caribbean or Out the Country Vibe!

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 would like to thank my parents for always believing in me and supporting my dreams. Both my father and mother have played a significant role in my success.

At 15, when I first expressed my passion for makeup, they invested in me wholeheartedly. They helped fund my products and equipment, promoted my business by sharing my cards around the city and at their workplaces, and provided endless encouragement. My mother was even kind enough to let me turn her living room into a salon, where I took clients daily before and after school.

When I decided to move to Atlanta, GA, on my own, they naturally felt some sadness, as I am their youngest child. However, they fully supported my decision and embraced this new chapter in my life. My father personally moved all my belongings and my car, making the 10-hour drive from Cleveland, OH, to Atlanta. Shortly after, my mother visited to decorate my new place, making it feel like home again.

Website: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/522724a9

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tierraa.marieee?igsh=MTMyZzh4MmpnMDZoZQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Image Credits
Ash Images