Today we’d like to introduce you to Patricia Cordon.
Hi Patricia, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
Before makeup, I was working in retail, and a few coworkers/friends would notice how much I enjoyed doing my makeup. They suggested I should get into it. For a long time, I thought I couldn’t because of my (hyperhidrosis/sweaty hands).
Until one day, I decided to just go for it and open up an Instagram page. I would practice with friends for free, take makeup lessons from other local Miami MUAS, get my makeup done at beauty counters constantly and buy the products just so I could learn how to apply them better.
Opening my Instagram page opened the doors for me to work for well-known makeup brands such as MAC Cosmetics and Il Makiage. When Covid happened, I worked from home doing virtual makeup beauty lessons and I got to meet people from all over the world.
Networking on Instagram helped me take my career to the next level. I had my work published in INKED Mag and worked on a few productions with well-known music artists. With the help of friends and bonds I’ve created, I’m able to get clients through referrals.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
When COVID hit, I thought it would be something temporary and I would be able to return to my job but little did I know that would be one of the last times I would come back to work and see my coworkers.
Because of Covid, the beauty counter shut down permanently. There were times I did get discouraged and questioned whether I should keep going or shut down my page.
What kept me going was my son. If I gave up on my dream or when times got tough, what would I be teaching him?
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I can do anything from natural glam/bridal/maternity to euphoria and even Halloween. It’s my favorite time of the year. Halloween is challenging but the end result is worth it.
The fact that I was able to work in music productions, see what it’s like behind the screens and be a part of something that comes to life is amazing. But I’m proud of the fact that when I was 32 weeks pregnant with my second son, I was able to do makeup backstage for Univision and see my makeup on TV.
I think what sets me apart from others is I’m able to offer more than one style of makeup so clients have options for any occasion.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Someone once told me “Your network determines your net worth”. If it wasn’t for me opening my Instagram page and putting myself out there I wouldn’t have gotten as far as I did.
I would say shadow someone you aspire to be and surround yourself with people who are supportive of your passion (that’s important). Be okay with getting no’s and moving on.
When I first started my makeup page and offered free makeup in exchange for content, I got no’s before I got a yes. Exposure doesn’t pay the bills but all it takes is that one person and you’ll have those bills paid.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Pattydoesmakeup.com
- Instagram: @pattydoesmakeup
Image Credits
@toniann.McGill.photography, @memok3, @dbailey_photo, @michyraw, @andrezvisuals, and @lizphotoflores
