I know many people view being a makeup artist as a fun and not-so-serious career, but it’s far more intensive than perceived. **if you make it to the end, you will see me in the beginning of my career 😅** We’re constantly packing, unpacking, and setting up our “travel studios” with chairs, tables, lights, and kits. At day’s end, there’s the daunting task (ask any artist they will agree it’s their least favorite task) of washing every makeup brush used for each client — typically 10-15 brushes per client, multiplied by the number of clients you had for the day.
Additionally, there’s the back-end of the business: emails, IT troubleshooting, scheduling, product replenishment, website design, and content creation. It’s a privilege to do what I do, but adding kids to the mix seemed impossible at first.
Then, after having my first child, reality hit hard. I struggled with exhaustion, mental drain, chronic pain, and weight gain. So, when I realized that working 7 days a week, 10 hours a day with two kids simply wasn’t sustainable, I intentionally carved out three days off each week: Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. It might sound crazy to take more than one day off in a row (insert sarcasm here), but it was a necessary change. Even when my youngest starts kindergarten, I plan to stick with Sundays and Mondays off, using Tuesdays as a reset day. I need the reset day of not physically working in or on my business. When I have that day my mind is more clear for the days ahead where I will be working. After all, what’s the point of being self-employed if you don’t take advantage of actually being self-employed? You are your own boss. Yes, we have to plan a year in advance for vacation and any traveling, but at least I can do it without asking for time off from someone else.
Amidst the utter chaos, I found balance when I prioritized my family. It made me realize that in the self-employed world, putting your personal life before your work is crucial — though incredibly challenging when you literally are your work. As the sole artist in my business, I’ve learned to give myself a damn break. It’s okay to step back and recharge.
Finding this balance has been liberating. It’s not just about surviving but thriving both as an artist and as a parent. To all my self-employed mommas, it’s ok to take more than one day off a week in a row – your business will still be there!
-Jenn
2013
11 years later ❤️
