So I will be starting cosmetology school in the fall, but I would love to start working in the field now. I've been practicing doing makeup on some friends and family members but I'm interested getting some real working experience.
Is there anyone in the are (DC, western Maryland, or Northern Virginia) that can give any advice/tips that can help me get in the field?
Try applying at stores like Sephora and counters inside Macys or Nordstroms...those are always nice gateways into the industry. And also you should be trying to volunteer at as many events as you can
I started my career in the DC area as well. Although I didn't go to school, I just jumped right in. My advice is pay a great photographer (keyword is PAY, don't find someone who will work for free because their work will be mediocre at best) to help build your portfolio. Then pay someone to build you a very professional looking website (clients often look at the overall look of your site and instantly make the judgement whether you are professional or not based on how clean the site looks.). Lastly, pay for advertising. This last piece of advice is most crucial. You have to be seen to be hired. Word of mouth business does NOT cut it when first starting out.
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Jun 05, 2012
Brittny W.
So I will be starting cosmetology school in the fall, but I would love to start working in the field now. I've been practicing doing makeup on some friends and family members but I'm interested getting some real working experience.
Is there anyone in the are (DC, western Maryland, or Northern Virginia) that can give any advice/tips that can help me get in the field?
Jun 10, 2012
Hattisha W.
Try applying at stores like Sephora and counters inside Macys or Nordstroms...those are always nice gateways into the industry. And also you should be trying to volunteer at as many events as you can
Jun 11, 2012
Lauren C.
I started my career in the DC area as well. Although I didn't go to school, I just jumped right in. My advice is pay a great photographer (keyword is PAY, don't find someone who will work for free because their work will be mediocre at best) to help build your portfolio. Then pay someone to build you a very professional looking website (clients often look at the overall look of your site and instantly make the judgement whether you are professional or not based on how clean the site looks.). Lastly, pay for advertising. This last piece of advice is most crucial. You have to be seen to be hired. Word of mouth business does NOT cut it when first starting out.
Jun 12, 2012
Brittny W.
Thanks ladies! I appreciate the advice.