Today we’d like to introduce you to Sidney Etienne
Hi Sidney, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hello, my name is Sidney Etienne, and I’m married to my wonderful husband, Canes Etienne. I’m a makeup artist based in West Palm Beach, and I want to give God all the honor and glory because I never imagined I’d be where I am today.
I’ve always loved playing with colors and diving into DIY projects. My creativity thrived during those moments, but it wasn’t until my time at Florida International University that I realized how much I wanted to express that creativity through makeup. As I navigated numerous internships and interviews, I often longed for a way to do my own makeup quickly and efficiently—without the hassle of traveling or waiting for other artists. My motto became, “If you can do it, I can do it too.”
That spark led me to countless hours on YouTube, where I learned to apply makeup on myself. Friends began asking me to do their makeup, but I hesitated because I felt inexperienced.I didn’t see myself as an aspiring MUA; I thought there were already so many talented people in the industry. Yet, I realized that while many might be in the same field, everyone has a unique gift that makes them stand out.
Eventually, I embraced this path. I started building my kit little by little, beginning with just a lamp and a stool, along with drugstore products. Each step of my journey taught me a crucial lesson: don’t hold back just because everything isn’t perfectly aligned. Start with what you have, give it your all, and you’ll be amazed at how far you can go. One day, you’ll look back and see that every small step was worth it!
In April 2021, I launched my business under the name “Enchanted Looks by Sidney,” later rebranding to “Sidney’s Artistry.” Over time, I discovered a deep passion for doing weddings—each event filled with love and joy.
It’s hard to believe it’s been three years since I entered this industry. I often reflect on my journey and think, “Who would have thought?” By the grace of God, I’ve achieved experiences that might take others several years, yet I’ve had the privilege of working with celebrities, booking destination weddings, and collaborating with remarkable individuals.
Throughout this journey, I’ve come to realize that my work is so much more than just makeup; it’s a ministry. Each client who sits in my chair becomes more than a canvas. It’s not just about enhancing outward beauty; it’s about nurturing inner beauty, confidence, and self-worth. Each application of makeup becomes an opportunity for encouragement and empowerment.
I believe that in every brush stroke and shared laugh lies a chance to impact lives. When my clients leave my chair, I want them to feel not just beautiful, but also loved and uplifted. I strive to create an environment where they can share their stories and experiences comfortably. In this way, makeup transforms into a platform for connection and inspiration.
So, to anyone reading this: don’t underestimate the power of your journey. Embrace where you are, and trust that every step, no matter how small, contributes to your purpose. You have a unique story to tell and a light to shine. Remember, your passion can be your ministry, and it’s never too late to say “yes” to your calling. Start with what you have, and watch how God multiplies your efforts beyond your wildest dreams. The world needs your gifts, so don’t hold back!
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?
Has it been a smooth road? Not at all. The journey to becoming a successful makeup artist has been filled with challenges. As I worked on building my portfolio, gaining the trust of potential clients was far from easy. Many were skeptical about booking someone still establishing themselves in the industry, which led to feelings of self-doubt. I often questioned whether I was good enough or if I would ever make a name for myself. The fear of rejection weighed heavily on me.
Sacrifices were necessary along the way. I learned that sometimes you have to lose money to gain it. I reached out to models to practice on, often at my own expense, and invested in one-on-one classes with other makeup artists to sharpen my skills. I also ran promotional deals to get my name out there. Each decision came with its own risks and rewards, but I knew these sacrifices were stepping stones to my growth.
Throughout this journey, I encountered many different personalities, which helped me build my patience even more. Each interaction taught me valuable lessons in understanding and communication, reinforcing the importance of respect for both my craft and my policies.
Through it all, I discovered an essential truth: the road to success is rarely smooth, and that’s perfectly okay. Those bumps along the way are what truly shape us. They teach us resilience, humility, and adaptability—qualities that are vital not just in our careers, but in life as a whole.
Embrace the challenges, for they will mold you into the person you are meant to be. Every obstacle you face is an opportunity for growth. It’s through these experiences that we learn, evolve, and ultimately emerge stronger and more prepared for the opportunities that lie ahead. Trust the process, and remember that every struggle contributes to your unique success story.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
What sets me apart from other makeup artists is my commitment to being relatable and approachable. I prioritize open communication with my clients, ensuring they feel heard and understood throughout the entire process. Before we begin, I encourage them to share their preferences and visions for their look, so we’re truly on the same page. This collaborative approach means I’m not just freestyling without their input; instead, we create something beautiful together. I also make it a point to educate them, answering any questions they have about makeup along the way.
Additionally, I strive to cultivate a warm and welcoming environment. I often set the mood with worship or peaceful music, creating an atmosphere that allows my clients to relax and fully enjoy the experience.
Building personal connections is something I take great pride in. I engage in meaningful conversations, taking the time to get to know my clients on a personal level. This connection allows me to tailor each experience to their unique personality and needs, making it feel special and memorable.
Ultimately, my goal is to ensure that every client leaves not only looking beautiful but also with lasting memories of their experience with Sidney’s Artistry. I want them to feel valued and uplifted, knowing they’ve received not just a service, but a truly personalized and enriching experience.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
My Pastor, Apostle Seth Amoah Boateng, once shared invaluable advice: always invest in your craft and don’t be afraid to reach out to those who are thriving in your industry. He emphasized the importance of studying the work of successful individuals and actively seeking mentorship from them. Stepping out of your comfort zone is essential; it’s often where growth happens.
When looking for a mentor, aim for someone whose skills and achievements inspire you—someone who is significantly ahead in their journey. This kind of mentorship pushes you to elevate your own standards and strive for greatness. A mentor should challenge you, provide constructive feedback, and help you navigate the complexities of your field.
Networking is equally important. Attend industry events, engage in meaningful conversations, and connect with people who share your passions. Approach these interactions with genuine curiosity; ask questions, listen actively, and be open to learning from others.
Don’t hesitate to express your aspirations and seek advice. People often appreciate when someone shows interest in their journey. Remember, it’s not just about what you can gain; think about how you can also support others in your network.
Lastly, nurture these relationships. Follow up after meetings, stay in touch, and share your progress. Building a strong network takes time and effort, but the connections you create can lead to incredible opportunities and lasting friendships.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sidneysartistry.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sidneysartistry?igsh=eDZvNHh3d2IyZHB5&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/7ncVnUMAv92zmatb/?mibextid=JRoKGi
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@exclusivelyetienne?feature=shared
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@sidneysartistry?_t=8qwFM5BJxNe&_r=1
Image Credits
Candid Photography – @capturedbycanes
REEM Photography – @photosbyreem
