Geri Perez is a Chicago born makeup artist specializing in bridal and special events. Her artistry career includes management in the cosmetics industry and brand account coordinator. Regularly attending master classes to diversify her methods of creating, she is eager to learn the best and latest techniques to bring to her clients and to fit everyone’s needs. Read our interview with the lovely Geri below…
What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?
I’ve always had a drive for owning my own business. My father owns his own business so growing up I looked up to him and learned how to go about being a business owner. As I grew older I developed a strong work ethic and it led me to being a manager for a couple different companies. It took a while for me to take that leap of faith and become my own boss, but I always knew it was what I was meant to do.
Tell us about your business.
I am the owner and make up artist for Geri Perez Makeup based out of Chicago. I focus on bridal and special events makeup that makes my clients feel glam and beautiful but still remain natural and true to their natural beauty. I have my own at home makeup studio as an option for my clients to have makeup services done, but I mostly travel to on location jobs. It’s part of the convenience I like to provide to my clients.
Are you currently running any promos/contests/giveaways that you would like our readers to know about?
Currently booking for 2017 bridal makeup!
List awards/certifications/accomplishments.
Columbia College Chicago 2012 – Bachelors in Arts and Entertainment Media Management.
London Eyes International Academy 2012-Certified Makeup Artist
Where is your business based?
Based in Chicago and the West Suburbs. I also travel to surrounding Chicagoland area if the assignment calls for it.
What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?
First, it started with a chance. I am a naturally very shy individual and it takes a lot for me to put myself out there. When I first started promoting myself as a makeup artist in 2009, I would do makeup on myself and post to social media. It turns out people really liked my work and from there I started booking makeup gigs. I was fortunate enough to receive referrals and I was able to build a portfolio.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
Definitely social media has been one of my best resources. Although I have an official website, it is used more for referral and business references. Social media creates an awareness that reminds people of your work as often as you’d like to post.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
Making that transition from a corporate full time job to working from home. I went from seeing people everyday and having a routine, to now being my own biggest cheerleader and motivator.
How did you overcome these challenges?
I woke up early in the morning and created a morning routine as if I was going into the office. I created a schedule for myself, took breaks when I needed to, and wrapped up what I needed to do by a certain hour. Maintaining a routine and holding yourself accountable is going to keep you on the track to success.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
I surround myself with people who inspire me. I’m so lucky to have a strong support system. Whenever I get down, I turn to them for motivation.
How do you distinguish yourself from your competitors?
By my style of makeup application. I don’t do heavy contouring; I create a customized look for my clients and carefully blend the makeup to create a flawless glam look that meets their needs without looking too heavy or cakey.
What is the best advice you have received recently?
To have patience. I was always told to work as hard as you can, there will be a day for everyone when preparation meets opportunity as long as you put in the work.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
The same advice I mentioned above, but also to not let fear get in the way. We often resist from pursuing our dreams out of fear of failure or instability. Everything at one point in time started off as an idea and its up to us to pursue it.
What is your favorite business tool or resource?
Social media is a great resource; also reaching out to fellow artists and entrepreneurs for advice is always helpful.
What social media outlets do you use? List them below.
Instagram @geriperezmakeup
Facebook www.facebook.com/geriperezmakeup
Website www.geriperezmakeup.com
Email perez.geri@gmail.com
Hashtags #geriperezmakeup
What is a good article or book you have read recently?
“Girlboss” by Sophia Amoruso.
What are you currently learning about for your business or looking for help with?
Building a stronger clientele.
What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?
To meet new people in my industry. I’m working on branching out, collaborating, and networking with new people.