Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Ericksen.
Hi Ashley, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
There has always been something about the beauty / cosmetic world that has intrigued me. When I was struggling through college, I used makeup and makeup tutorials as my happy place- my escape. I decided that once I finished my Bachelor’s degree, I would chase my dreams of becoming a Professional Makeup Artist, and I did just that! I went to First Coast Technical College in St. Augustine for my license in Esthetics, then assisted with some local makeup artists to build confidence and learn more about techniques and the ins-and-outs of the industry. Once I felt comfortable going out on my own, I started freelancing!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
I feel that there are challenges with everything in life. It just depends on what you make out of those challenges. My biggest struggle was confidence in myself and my work. While I was assisting other artists, the one thing that every one of them told me was to be confident in my work and my skills. It’s always easier said than done, and I always feel like I’m growing and learning. However, I feel that my confidence has grown tremendously since I started! The beautiful thing of makeup artistry is that it’s just that- an art!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a licensed Esthetician and Professional Makeup Artist. My specialties are bridal and airbrush makeup. I’m most proud of my recent publication in PopSugar and my Best of the Knot win! I think what sets me apart from others is my professionalism, along with my ability to connect with my clients and brides on a personal level.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I think we can all agree that 2020 was the year of bad luck! Being in the wedding industry, we took a huge hit! However, I think the role that good luck plays in that is how many brides were so eager to have weddings once our lockdown was lifted. Since May, I’ve had the busiest (half) year with weddings!
Contact Info:
- Email: beautybyashley904@gmail.com
- Website: https://beautybyashley904.wixsite.com/website
- Instagram: instagram.com/beautybyashley904
- Facebook: facebook.com/beautybyashley904
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/beauty-by-ashley-st-augustine
- Other: https://www.theknot.com/marketplace/beauty-by-ashley-saint-augustine-fl-2039420
Image Credits
Jennifer Nicole Photography, Cameryn Jewel Photography, Snapshots by Gabriela
