Daily Inspiration: Meet Ashley Potter

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Potter.

Ashley, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Well, this is quite a story! It starts in 2010. I was living at home with my parents and my mom made the comment that I should try to be a makeup artist. I honestly never realized that was an actual job at the time. I knew the MAC counter, but an actual job as a makeup artist never existed in my mind prior to that day.

I was in a time where I was unsure of what I wanted to do and this intrigued me! I started researching, watching YouTube videos (which were very limited at that time), and reading books from the top makeup artists. I began practicing with my mom and three sisters regularly. Lol! I was quickly falling in love with everything makeup! A few months later, I sought out work to build my portfolio. I worked with so many creatives during that time and mostly for free, but it was so rewarding!

I worked with up-and-coming photographers and SCAD fashion, film, and photography students. I started booking proms and weddings soon after. At the time makeup was really just a hobby, I never thought I would now be doing makeup full-time. It took almost 10 years for me to even fathom it, but I’m grateful for my journey!

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?
It has definitely NOT been a smooth journey! Lol! In the past year or so I’ve come to realize a lot of my bumps along the road came from within. I dealt with so many insecurities growing up it seeped into the very seams of who I am and fear became my headquarters of operation.

I’m a Christian and I believe the Lord started to reveal a lot in me especially through this pandemic. I reflected a lot on how I wouldn’t even dream big because I didn’t feel worthy. I was ok with being complacent and comfortable and God was shaking me up and saying I didn’t create you for complacency! I’ve given you a gift that’s meant to be shared and touch others!

I believe in you which is why I gave it to you! That was when I realized I was supposed to be doing makeup full-time. I honestly never even gave it an option because the insecure little girl in me was too afraid to dream bigger.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a professional Makeup Artist! I specialize in the makeup application and I will soon be adding lash technician to my list of specializations. Yay! I’m known for glam and beauty makeup! Most of my clients come to me for very natural, but glamorous looks! I call my signature look the “Bombshell Look” it’s my most booked service.

I’m currently most proud of the fact that I hosted my first group makeup class and it sold out! I called it a “Sip and Slay” a spin on the popular painting classes. It was definitely the first of many to come! I hosted about 20 women and we had an amazing time! I can wait for my next one! Honestly, the fact that I get to touch so many lives through some of the best and sometimes most trying moments in their lives is a blessing!

I believe what sets me apart is me! I try to service my clients to the best of my ability even outside of just doing makeup! I’ve helped get brides and bridesmaids ready, I’ve taken prom and graduation pictures, and just motivated and encouraged many. It’s more than just providing a service for me. I literally get to touch lives. That’s my heart and my motivation.

Risk-taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I am definitely not naturally a risk-taker! Lol, I’m learning to be, but I’m more of a stay-in-your-lane type of chick! My new mindset is that I can create my own lanes without having to swerve into others.

Whether it’s trying my crazy idea of a Sip and Slay makeup class, learning new techniques, or just stepping outside my box, I’ve found myself more open once I took the risk of actually doing makeup full-time. My husband tells me if I don’t try, I’ve already failed. I would have never done the class or stepped out on faith with my business if I let the fear of taking risks hold me back!

There were many times I wanted to give up prior to my event, but failure isn’t an option. Trusting in God for myself and my vision has been the biggest thing for me and has helped me get this far!

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.ashleygwenartistry.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/ashleygwenartistry
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/Ashleygwenartistry/
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCRvT1n2pvPvLh9V9pLMer_w

Image Credits
Justin Wright and Jonisha Donaldson