Today we’d like to introduce you to Vivian James.
Hi Vivian, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Hi! I’m Vivi James, Guatemalan, and I’ve been a makeup artist for almost 13 years. I do all kinds of makeup but specialize primarily in Brides. Bridal makeup is my Jam! And here’s my story: everything started when I was little, looking at my mom getting her makeup done every morning, especially I loved her red lips! In school, I would always do my friend’s hair and makeup; if we had something going on, the girls knew they had to come to me, and we would all get ready together. In my senior year, I struggled because I had no idea what career to pursue; cosmetology school was not an option since it was not considered a “career.”
I’ve always been into art, so I went for Industrial Design. Long story short, it did not work, so I took a little break. A few months later, I went for it and got into cosmetology school, and oh wow! Best decision ever! After 2 years, I graduated, and right away, I was hired to work as a makeup assistant on a movie in Mexico; I was in charge of touch-ups and special fx! I couldn’t believe it was happening to me, and after that, everything just happened so smoothly. I worked in photography, commercials, and other short films, and the best part of all was that I got into the bridal world. Brides are one of my favorite parts of what I do; being part of their big day motivates me and gets me going. Also, during this journey, I met my husband, moved to the U.S., and became a mom, and I’m just starting to get to know myself. Many would see it as “leaving your whole career behind,” but I see it as a new chapter, a blank page, and I’m so excited to write new stories, meet new people, and enjoy life!
It wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s been smooth being in another country, learning another language, adapting to a new culture, and learning how everything works differently here. You could call it a struggle, but it is a slow learning process; it takes some time, so I must be patient and consistent.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. What can you tell our readers who might need to be more familiar with what you do?
I am a Bridal makeup artist. I do all kinds of makeup, but brides are what I love to do the most. I like to connect with my brides, be the friend they need, and make their day even more unique and special. Having that connection where I can guess what they want, what they feel more comfortable with, and make them feel glamorous but at the same time like themselves is what I think makes my work different than others; I want them to feel like they are hanging out with a friend and build that trust we both need❤️ I’ve had many obstacles in the way, closed doors, etc. but nothing has ever stopped me. I consider myself an introvert, so being in a different country has been a challenge, but I keep pushing myself through the uncomfortable moments to get where I want to be, which makes me feel so proud of myself.
So, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you before we go? How can they support you?
I love to collaborate and am up for it anytime! Just contact me through social media, and we can work it out! @makeupby_vivijames
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @makeupby_vivijames
- Facebook: Makeup by Vivi James
Image Credits
Nep Tabancura Photography, Ashley Van Photography, Giselle Cano
