We had the good fortune of connecting with Stephanie Jones and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Stephanie, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Ok, I’m going to be very honest with you! I got into makeup for a very vein yet insecure reason and that was first to feel or be seen as pretty. Growing up as a Black girl especially a dark skinned girl I didn’t see myself when I opened up magazines or on television and I always wondered what it would feel like to be “that girl” who was the main character . Now as I evolved past makeup being a side hustle and really worked on my artistry for others I saw that everyone that sat in my seat was looking for that same exact feeling that I desired as a little girl and as I focused in on my healing journey of truly loving myself authentically , I found myself helping others as I was glamming them up for their special events and eventually television productions.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Let me start off by saying I sucked as a visual artist! Especially when it came to drawing or painting on canvas or paper! My mom would always laugh at the fact that I hated colouring as a child ,but there is something so beautiful about working on the human body.
I’ve had the honour of working with some of the most amazing talent within the music and entertainment industry and while yes I can certainly create a timeless look on anyone, I’m most proud about the impact that I leave on each person, set, wedding or trailer.
Truth is, the artistry is only one side of the coin while working with anyone especially those at the top of their game within their field. It really comes down to how you make that person feel while working with them. Do you make them feel safe and open to be themselves? It may seem like what’s the big deal but when you’re dealing with actors, singers or anyone for that matter it translates into how one shows up on set or just in life.
My brand is all about 360 beauty, which is why no one in my chair will feel rushed, unseen or unheard and once they step away they are ready to perform, walk down the aisle or just be who they are with confidence.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
So, I haven’t fully transitioned to living in LA full time just yet and some may not have experienced a visit to Canada’s capital, Ottawa so I’m going to give you a little tour of my city right now!
People know Ottawa as a government town but if you’re into the outdoors and cute spots for brunch or just a foodie in general you’ll enjoy this!
So first we have to start with a hike in the Gatineau hills that has the most breathtaking views of nature and you can take your time meditating and getting a good burn.
After that I would jet home to get ready to go to one of my new favourite brunch spots in down town Ottawa by the name of ‘Cocotte’, which has a french inspired menu that is literally amazing and also a total vibe for pictures or a first date!
After brunch, sis needs to get her nails done! We’re heading over to Magic Nails where Lindsey is going to hook it up.
Now let’s grab a Kombucha and head over to a book store and vibe in the quiet area and pick up a few books to add to the collection and since we’re in the area you will always find me at IKEA grabbing things I don’t need!
Now let’s finish the night in little Italy at one of my favourite places ‘ Giovanni’s’ for the BEST Italian cuisine.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’m a firm believer that Jesus brings everyone in our lives for a reason, sometimes seasons or every now and then you get blessed with what I call the “lifers”. No matter the season or even when communication gets dim from time to time you always know this person(s) have your back! I want to shout out my AMAZING family that has always been in my corner, even when they didn’t fully understand the method to the madness in the moment, they always showed up,prayed and encouraged me along the way even through many set backs !
I also want to shout out the amazing support of my sister circle of friends, Kayanna, Triphena,Teyanna and Jodianne. When I tell you these sisters stood by me through the hardest times when I didn’t believe in myself and readjusted my crown, and told me to keep going. I love you all.
Instagram: https://instagram.com/stephaniejones3110?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/stephanie-jones-747b78169
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100050564601366&mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
Aziz Mousa/Mila Marie Sutton Jodianne Beckford Prince Meyson François Mittins